No. 7 • Saturday, January 16, 2010 St. JUDE

No. 7 • Saturday, JANUARY 16, 2010 www.stlucia.gov.lc

st. jude hospital site redevelopment LAYOUT

ith the gutting and support from the commu- port and to devise a master plan Jude site at the George Odlum and understanding of the of the island’s nity as well as from overseas to along with the Ministry of Health, Stadium which is the temporary sporting fraternity and the second major facilitate a speedy design and re- the St. Jude Team, and local archi- location of St. Jude Hospital since cooperation of Sports St. hospital by construction project. tects to design a state-of-the-art the fire, providing assessments of Lucia Inc. in agreeing to Wfire last September, nationals facility. On Monday October 19, the damage, ideas for reconstruc- temporarily accommodate The Task Force is chaired by 2009, the Embassy of the Repub- have come out in full sup- Prime Minister Stephenson King. tion and continued monitoring of the St. Jude Hospital at the port of plans to rebuild the lic of China (Taiwan) presented to the progress. George Odlum Stadium. With the assistance from the government, a master plan for southern medical facility. The Government of Saint Lucia The Government of Saint PAHO, UNOPS, CEHI, other or- the St. Jude Hospital. Under the guidance of a wishes to take this opportunity to Lucia also takes this oppor- ganizations, and individuals who task force that was urgently The master plan encompasses thank all who have so far contrib- tunity to thank anonymous have devoted time and money formed two days after the fire plans to design and rebuild St. uted to the restoration efforts of contributors and everyone into restoring St. Jude’s Hospital, of September 9, 2009, contri- Jude Hospital to provide a world St. Jude Hospital including cor- who made cash contribu- the plan is to break ground later butions have been pouring class health care facility with in- porate and tourism sectors, in- tions directly into the bank in from nationals both here this month, for a new hospital to ternational accreditation stan- dividuals and families, students, accounts that have been set and abroad, foreign govern- be built at the same location as dards that will also incorporate St. Lucia associations based up for the reconstruction of ments and overseas asso- the previous one. a teaching component of health overseas, local groups and other St. Jude Hospital. related subject areas. ciations, while the corporate In the rebuilding effort the associations, faith based organi- In this issue of National community has also come country has recognized the con- Numerous cheque presenta- zations, regional organizations, Review (Page 3) we have forward to contribute to the tributions and pledges of friendly tions have taken place since the foreign governments and inter- listed some of our many rebuilding effort. governments and non-nationals fire, from local and foreign agen- national organizations for their benefactors. We may not The St. Jude Hospital who are coming forward to help cies, private sector, students and contributions whether in kind, have included everyone, Restoration Task Force has out with the rebuilding of St. individuals as well as donations cash, equipment, solidarity and but we will endeavour to over the last three months Jude Hospital. of supplies. for their general support. do so and acknowledge attempted to raise public The Taiwanese Government has Representatives from all over The Government is also partic- additional contributions in awareness, gather funds offered to provide technical sup- the world have visited the St. ularly heartened by the patience the next issue.

st. jude hospital site redevelopment LAYOUT

HOTLINE: 450-JUDE Page 2 Saturday January 16, 2010

SEASON’S GREETINGS 2009 by the Honourable Stephenson King Prime Minister, Minister for Finance, Economic Affairs, Economic Planning and National Development December 29, 2009

y fellow Saint Lucians, turbing trends in our beautiful ed an increase in production by fect our banking and financial ladies and gentle- country, among them the grow- 32% sector and so far our efforts to- Mmen - permit me this ing violence and criminal activity Visitors’ arrivals grew from gether with the support and ini- opportunity; on the dawn of against our own and visitors we 100,000 in 1989 to over 650,000 tiatives of the Eastern Caribbean a new day and a new year, to welcome to our shores. in 2009. This continued growth Central Bank have proven to date commence my greetings to you Nevertheless, we were also has provided more revenue for to be very successful. with a quotation from Winston blessed with the requisite com- our country in recent times and Your Government remains Churchill, who in 1941, standing petence and capacity to weather we are extremely grateful for its steadfast in its resolve to deliv- beside President Harry Truman those difficult challenges and to impact. er a better quality of life and a in Washington, DC, appealed to plan for the future. higher standard of living for all his war weary listeners by say- Meanwhile, in the social sector Saint Lucians. In this regard we ing: "Let the children have their As I mentioned in my New the establishment of the Saint Lucia were able to continue to support night of fun and laughter…. let Year’s Address at the begin- Social Development Fund (SSDF) ning of last year, we have been with its appendage of social safe- the subsidies that we introduced us share in full, in their unstinted We demonstrated our benevo- through recessions in times past, ty-net programmes, particularly earlier last year. Our social safety pleasure, before we turn again lence by pooling our resources to the stern tasks in the year and we have learnt how to be re- the Holistic Opportunity for Per- net programme ensured that our silient, and to survive. Because sonal Empowerment (HOPE) has poor and vulnerable were well for the benefit of our country. that lies before us. Now, by our Nowhere has this been more ap- sacrifice and daring, these same of our tenacity and our prudence, brought much hope to our youth, protected from the recession and we have seen resilience in many unskilled, skilled and vulnerable to cushion the shocks caused by parent than in the national, re- children shall not be robbed of gional and international efforts their inheritance or denied the of our sectors: citizens in our society. the worst financial crisis ever since the Great Depression. demonstrated by our citizens and right to live in a free and decent Agriculture has been further At the regional level we have friends, who have joined Gov- world." diversified and our new invest- worked hard to ensure that the In all of this, one thing that was ernment’s determined effort to Fellow Saint Lucians, in this ments in this sector have yield- global financial crisis did not af- quite clear to all Saint Lucians dur- ensure the commencement of the festive season, at the sunrise ing this last year was that we had reconstruction of St. Jude Hospi- of a new year, I am aware that to make every effort to ensure that tal this New Year. we are weary from fighting a the gains of independence over the Our efforts will be further bol- global recession that has placed last thirty years were not eroded stered this year as we conclude tremendous pressure on our al- by such exogenous shocks. negotiations for the construc- ready limited resources. During Yet, through all this challenge, tion of a new airport terminal the year just gone, we were com- domestically and internationally at the Hewanorra International pelled to make further sacrifices and even amidst the daunting Airport, while new investments and to tighten our belts that al- criminal activities of a few who in the water sector, the recom- ready nip at our waists. are bent on destroying our social mencement of three major hotel We were faced with: rising and moral fabric and our interna- projects and the opening of the food and fuel prices; instability tional reputation, we remained Bay Walk Mall, comprising 70 in the tourism sector; sustained resolute and loving as a people, stores, 30 apartment units along international pressure on our caring for each other’s well-be- with the country’s first casino. banana industry; unstable em- Agriculture has been further diversified and our new investments ing, about each other’s safety and These are just a few of the de- ployment figures and some dis- in this sector have yielded an increase in production by 32% about each other’s children. velopment programs to be under- taken by government this year. Citizens, visitors and friends; and on this occasion particularly, the constituents of Castries North who I have the distinct privilege and pleasure to represent: Let me seize this opportunity to wish you every success in this New Year and to encourage you to continue to build on the achievements of last year. Let this New Year be one of patriotism to country caring for your fellowmen, sharing with your neighbor and uniting as one people in community under God’s guidance. I pray that this Festive Season is one of tranquility love and hap- piness, and this New Year brings you good health, peace and prosperity throughout. To all of you I say Happy Holi- days and a Happy and prosper- ous New Year. May the Good Lord protect Visitors’ arrivals grew from 100,000 in 1989 to over 650,000 in 2009 you through. I thank you. Saturday January 16, 2010 Page 3

nity as well as from overseas and Addresses will also be deliv- to facilitate a speedy design and ered by senior government offi- reconstruction project”. cials and a brief history of the St From this, the St Jude National Jude Hospital will be given. Fundraising Rally sub-committee Tributes will also be paid to was soon formed as an off-shoot those who tragically died in the of the St Jude Task Force compris- fire as well as to the many heroes ing over twenty representatives who stood out during the disas- of a number of stakeholder bod- ter and rescue effort. ies such as community based or- Saint Lucians are expected ganisations, relevant government to come out in large numbers ministries, local government au- to support and take part in the nder the theme: “Rising the rally seeks to galvanize public the island’s 31st. independence thorities, religious organisations, fundraising rally and to join the from the Ashes Rebuild- support for the St Jude rebuilding anniversary. the St. Jude Hospital, enforce- government in its bid to rebuild Uing the Love” a massive effort and in particular provide Since the fire of September 9, ment agencies and the office of St Jude Hospital. rally will be held next month in Saint Lucians the opportunity to the Prime Minister. 2009, Prime Minister Stephenson In coming weeks, a public rela- an effort to raise funds for the tangibly express their commit- King formed the St. Jude Task The programme for the rally tions campaign will be launched reconstruction of the island’s sec- ment to the reconstruction cam- Force on September 11th, 2009 will include activities such as: to inform and mobilize all Saint ond major hospital that was gut- paign. with the mandate to: “raise pub- songs, dance, drumming, drama, Lucians with an aim to getting ted in a fire last September. This rally will also form part of lic awareness, gather funds and poetry and other cultural perfor- more participation from the Slated for February 28, 2009, the official programme to mark support from the local commu- mances. public.

List of Contributors to the Restoration of St. Jude Hospital Corporate Sector Individuals Lester Mathurin Foreign Governments Bernard Patchett Caribbean Metals Vivian Chastanet and International Gregory Melchoir Consolidated Foods Ltd Patricia Allain Deborah Francois Organisations Royal Bank of Canada Joseph Harris Deborah Moses Government of Israel Bank of Nova Scotia Francisca Henry Paulene Peltier Coutter Taiwanese Government Windward Island Gases Dennis Auguste Rose Hilton Taylor Embassy of the Republic of China on First Caribbean International Bank Rose Beausoliel Taiwan Bank of St. Lucia Leonie Samuel Candian High Commission/Govn't of St. Lucia Electricity Services Marise & Wendel Skeete Local Associations Canada Michael Chastanet Monique Jean Southern Taxi Co. Service Association, Vieux Fort U.S. Southern Command R.J. Clarke Ltd Laurencia Mondesir The Tropics Band MEDSHARE Fast Cash Janice & Remy Avril Soufriere Taxi Association Food for the Poor Arnott Valmont, CBE, SLC Aaron Hutchinson Concerned Citizens Group of Vieux Fort Pan American Health Organization National Fair Trade Paula Augustin Soufriere Mothers & Fathers Group UNOPS NLBA Sylvia Moonie Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafarian Inc. United States Embassy WIZO Dr Vincent Hughes Etangs Health Center The French Dept of the Americas Consolidated Foods Ltd. (Staff) Anthony Griffith Art of Living Foundation OAS Kein's Trucking Ignatius Evans Extra Love Band & Rotaract South Consul General of St. Lucia in Toronto Prio's Country Club Anslem Daniel National Farmers & General Workers Consul General of St. Lucia in Martinique Morne Bakery St. Lucia Ltd. Peter Martin La Ressource Mothers and Fathers Group Good News Project, USA Mirache 2000 Barber Shop Majorie William/Cyril Boriel Soufriere Prayer Group Hewanorra Service Station Arvin Denis Southern Region Admin Support Group Total Health Care Pharmacy Patrons Mc Kaye Mc Farlane Bank of St. Lucia (Staff) Helene Dornelly Regional Johna's Barber Shop Evariste Simeon WOULD YOU LIKE TO DONATE? St. Anthony's Medical Center Theresa Antoine Organisations Cyrill Dornelly Contruction Co. Ltd. John Burns OECS-(Pharmaceutical Several funds have been established at local banks, where ac- LIME Jerome Herda Procurement Service) counts have been established to allow the public to assist in any J.Q. Charles Group of Companies Stanley Lloyd Auguste Caribbean Environmental way they can. SLASPA Nigel Eudoxie Health Institute Anita Flavien Below is a list of these accounts where funds will go directly to Schools Mr. Webster Orie the restoration efforts: Norbert C Edward Faith Based Gros Islet Pre-School & Deloris Francis-Edward BANKS : ACCOUNT NOS. Plain View Combined School Organisations Mr. Denis Ishmael Choiseul Secondary Students Council Victory Pentecostal Church Bank of St. Lucia : 901266335 Jones Eugene Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary St. Lucia Mission of Seventh Lazarus Alphonse Bank of Nova Scotia : 2001980 School Campus B Day Adventists Hubert Moonie Calypso Association of Grambling Church of God Holiness- First National Bank : 6002688 Louis Promese State University,USA Choiseul Elizabeth Henry Royal Bank of Canada : 1008234 Augier Combined School Fr. J. Justin Mathew David Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary Tabernacle Baptist Church Christiana Sylvester Cheque contributions from overseas donors can be made out to School Campus A Juliana Joseph “The Accountant General.” Vieux Fort Infant School Merlin Didier If you would like to assist with the relief efforts for the St. Jude Diaspora Angel Garnier Hospital, make formal presentations to the Prime Minister or Tourism Sector St. Lucia American Jacob Tobierre for further information and updates on activities being carried Progressive League Jade Mountain/Anse Chastanet Petrona Bartlett out to re-establish health services in the South of the island, St. Lucia Martinique Hotel Charity Cynthia Fontene please call Kimberly Mathurin at hotline: (758) 450-5833 (JUDE) Association Bay Gardens Hotel Mary Jeremie at the Office of the Prime Minister. Island Windsurfing Ltd. (The Reef) Peter Mark Norbert C. Edward and Cool Breeze Rental Herwin Joseph Delores Francis-Edward, UK You can also reach the following officials: Ms Esther Brathwaite Red Cap Association Donald E. Hoach Sr. – Permanent Secretary (Special Initiatives) at (758) 468-2169 or Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Diana Thomas Dr. Marilyn Morris – Policy Advisor at (758) 468-2170. Page 4 Saturday January 16, 2010 Annual Motor Vehicle License In Effect This Month

Under the new license agreement, vehicles under 3 tons will pay $150 and those 3 tons and above $300

Developed with the help of the provision for: (a) driver registra- Taiwanese International Cooper- tion and management, (b) motor ation & Development Fund, this vehicle registration and manage- project is being done in 2 phases. ment, (c) reports, (d) audit logs & Phase 1 was launched in Octo- trails, (e) high-end security fea- ber 2009 with a focus on the issu- tures, (f) interfacing facilities (for ance of new drivers’ license cards government & non-government and motor vehicle registration. departments) and (g) issuance of drivers’ license cards. This commences the replace- otor vehicle owners in pay $150 and those 3 tons and A sticker representing proof ment of the current AS400 data- Phase 2 of the project will fo- Saint Lucia will as of above $300. of roadworthiness, insurance, base by a system that will: (i) ad- cus on addressing the development of modules for route and this month – January The Division further states registration and license payment dress the loopholes identified in M taxi permits, driving Instructors 2010, be required to pay an an- that motor vehicle owners are will be issued. This sticker must the current system, (ii) provide matters, production of notices nual license for their motor ve- required to go through the nor- be displayed on the front wind- superior security features, (iii) and reminders to customers, hicles. mal procedure of inspecting and screen of the motor vehicle. meet the needs of the public and such as reminders for payments That’s according to the Trans- insuring their vehicles. Presenta- The new licenses will allow other clients, (iv) incorporate rev- of fees and other license related port Division of the Ministry of tion of the insurance and inspec- the transfer of each motor ve- enue forecasting requirements permits. Communications and Works. tion will be followed by a simple hicle into “ATLAS” - Advanced and (v) facilitate interfacing with Under the new license agree- verification process and payment Transport & Licensing Authority appropriate stakeholders. ATLAS will gradually replace ment, vehicles under 3 tons will of the required fee. System. The new system will make the current AS400 system. Agro-Processing, The Way To Go!

onstruction to begin on a about the prospect of an agro- to ensure that we are in a position multi-million dollar facil- processing facility here. to export our products. I was in City at Babonneau Speaking at the recent sod- the UK recently, and I met with In a bid to diversify Saint Lu- turning ceremony in Fond Assau, several supermarkets that have cia’s agricultural sector and to Mr. Joseph emphasized on the indicated their willingness to enable the island to become more need for such a facility: “There purchase vacuum-packed products from us” the Minister said. self-sufficient with agricultural is a need for us to utilise our lo- products, the Government of cally grown products to produce He added that the Food and Saint Lucia is aggressively pur- downstream products that can Agriculture Organisation (FAO), provide much greater returns to suing agro-processing as an al- will be closely involved in train- our farmers. ternative to “straight farming”. ing nationals in the area of agro- “As the minister for agricul- processing in preparation for the Last month officials here ob- ture, my ministry thought it was new facility. served the sod turning of an agro important for us to go the di- processing facility in Fond Assau, Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint rection of agro-processing and Lucia, Ambassador Tom Chou Babonneau that is expected to to revisit some of the gains and says when completed the facil- be up and running by mid-year. experiences which were accom- ity will play an important role in The plant is to funded in part by plished in the past, to enable us creating employment for locals the Taiwanese government that to undertake this project and particularly in the rural areas. has allocated EC$1.5m for the make it a reality.” construction of the Fond Assau “The role of the Taiwanese Agro-processing Facility. He said he was especially ex- government in this project is to cited about the idea of the island provide technical support and Located on the grounds of the producing vacuum packed prod- financial assistance to renovate Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Ezechiel Joseph and Taiwanese old Fond Assau boxing plant, the ucts that can be marketed locally, and equip this facility” Ambassador Tom Chou Turn the Sod at the Site of the Project new facility will churn out paper regionally and internationally. The agro-processing facility from pseudo stems – a technol- allocated for the renovation and but as a deliberate policy effort, “With regard to the interna- is the latest in several projects ogy of turning banana waste into upgrade of an already existing the ministry of agriculture has paper - as well as manufacture tional markets, there is already a financed by the Taiwanese gov- agro-processing facility in Anse recognised the need to engage vacuumed packed products for great demand for vacuum-packed ernment for the development of agriculture in Saint Lucia. Ger, Micoud. our farmers in agro-processing export, made from locally grown products, so I would like to indi- in order to add value to our lo- He said when fully operational produce such as dasheen, green cate that the new agro-processing Meanwhile, Permanent Sec- cal products. With the assistance the two agro-processing facilities plantain and green bananas. facility will be operating at inter- retary in the Ministry of Agri- of the Taiwanese government, we will have the potential to transform Saint Lucia’s Agriculture Min- national standards. Because we culture Hubert Emmanuel says are now ready to enter that next ister Ezekiel Joseph has fully will be dealing with food, we will in the government’s continuing the island’s agriculture sector. phase of our agricultural devel- endorsed the project stating his have to satisfy ourselves that we efforts to diversify the local agri- “For years we have been en- opment,” the Permanent Secre- commitment and excitement are meeting all the requirements cultural sector, funds have been gaged in primary agriculture, tary said. Saturday January 16, 2010 Page 5 Saint Lucia Youth Make Sweet Music!! music programme target- tor John Bailey of the School of ing youth at risk in the Music. Acommunity of Marchand To date, the OAS has provided and supported by the Organisa- up to 54 string instruments in- tion of American States (OAS) cluding: violin, viola, cello and continues to flourish with 54 double bass for the young resi- young people from the area dents of Marchand aged 10 to 18 learning the finer skills of string years old. instruments. A full symphony orchestra This is part of an OAS initia- which is the final goal of the local tive involving St Lucia, Jamaica programme comprises: Strings; and Haiti that each form a pilot Woodwind - flute, clarinet, oboe, project in a special Caribbean bassoon; Brass - trumpet, trom- Youth Orchestra Programme bone, tuba, French horn and Per- targeting youth at risk by pro- cussion - drums, triangle, cymbal viding them with intensive etc. training in orchestral instruments and choir over an initial Mr. Bailey explained that since three-year period. string instruments are harder to learn and take a longer time to The programme is closely mod- master the art, it was decided eled on the very successful Youth that the first phase of the local Orchestra Movement in Venezu- programme would be to instruct ela and a similar programme in the young people in strings. Colombia. He added that in the upcom- The programmes are founded ing second phase of establishing on the belief that a training in a full-fledged symphony orches- orchestral playing and choir for tra, youth will learn woodwind – youth at risk in areas of high flute, clarinet, oboe and bassoon urban density, with a high inci- and from then onto brass and dence of unemployment, gang percussion. activity, drug abuse, domestic violence and crime, will make a The current phase of training significant difference in amelio- young people ends formally rating the lives of those young at the end of this school year. students who participate and The Youth orchestra will then also improve the general quality recruit new youngsters for the At the recent end-of-term concert, the Marchand youngsters thrill the crowd with their musical of life in the community in which upcoming new school year be- prowess on the Cello and other string instruments the project is based. ginning September 2010 to add the new segment onto the or- A collaborative venture be- chestra. and in turning up for regular les- received wide acclaim from OAS tion are also very pleased with tween OAS, the Ministry of So- sons after school. representatives in Washington the progress of the programme, cial Transformation, the Ministry To date the response to the when the concert was broadcast believing that if they give disad- of Education and the St Lucia programme has been more than He said their enthusiasm has live by web streaming. vantaged youth an instrument School of Music, the programme encouraging Mr. Bailey said with paid off as was seen in a recent to learn and play, it would help has been progressing success- the young residents of Marchand end of term concert in which the He said the Ministries of Edu- them grow into productive and fully according to Musical Direc- being consistent in their interest youngsters took part and which cation and Social Transforma- responsible citizens. Cuban Eye Centre of Excellence Opens at Victoria Hospital aint Lucians will be bet- of assistance given to Saint Lu- ter able to avail them- To date more than cia by the Cuban government, Sselves of the expertise particularly in the area of eye and technology of the Cuban 40,000 Saint care, a project that began in medical field with the recent Lucians have 2005. opening of an Ophthalmo- The new Cuban Eye Centre logical Centre recently opened received eye care of Excellence at Victoria Hos- at the Victoria Hospital. pital comprises two surgical under the ongoing rooms and the most modern Minister of Health and equipment in ophthalmologi- Wellness Dr. Keith Monde- Cuban Eye cal care. sir lauded the facility saying that it will cater to the needs Programme To date more than 40,000 of Saint Lucians, as well as to Saint Lucians have received that of residents of neighbour- tal last month and is staffed by eye care under the ongoing Cuban Eye Programme in- ing islands. over seventeen highly qualified cluding close to 6,000 surgical Cuban eye care professionals. The Cuban Eye Centre operations having been con- of Excellence was formally The ribbon is cut, symbolizing the formal opening of the Cuban The new ophthalmological ducted, providing better eye- opened at the Victoria Hospi- Eye Centre of Excellence at the Victoria Hospital unit represents the continuation sight to nationals. Page 6 Saturday January 16, 2010 Saturday January 16, 2010 Page 7

provements in the lives of our and to inform policy makers of people. any need for the re-formulation Above all, we need to ensure of such policies that might be re- sustainable growth of our econ- quired in furtherance of social omy to provide the financial development and social change. resources to support these pro- This is the main reason for this grammes on a sustainable basis. symposium We can no longer depend mainly We recognized that the private on foreign development coopera- and non-state sectors such as our tion and preferential treatments NGOs and CBOs are engaged in in trading with our traditional a commendable charitable effort try of Social Transformation and and environmental vulnerabili- ate future of the Tourist industry lar popular with large numbers The Textbook Rental Pro- assistance, driven largely by the foreign development partners. aimed at social improvements in in collaboration with the Carib- ties which according to the 2009 upon which so many of our is- unemployed young people par- gramme – Ministry of Educa- addition of programs and proj- Therefore, given the devel- the lives and livelihoods of many bean Development Bank. Social Safety Net Assessment Re- lands depend for their economic ticipating. Training programmes tion - The Textbook Rental Pro- ects implemented by the SSDF. opmental challenges we face at St Lucian households with their port is due to : Chronic poverty and survival, appears under an immi- are also gender sensitive with gramme is principally to assist Approximately 54% of social as- this juncture, as a government own limited resources. Yet their Despite St Lucia’s categoriza- activities are largely not informed tion as middle income and the the inter-generational transmission nent threat. increasing numbers of women disadvantaged students. Benefi- sistance expenditures is funded we see it as important to focus opting for training in tradition- ciaries are required to pay an an- from the capital budget, mostly by existing national development significant investments in social of poverty, transient poverty, and The urgency to act has be- our efforts on the following: Sta- ally male-dominated vocations nual fee of $175.00. This is solely with donor funding. The SSDF policy direction and they often development in recent times, St vulnerability to poverty; Risks that come a national priority for the bilization of the Economy; In- threaten human capital development such as auto body repair and for the purpose of sustaining the accounts for the largest share do not get the support they need Lucia’ economic achievements Government of Saint Lucia and vestment promotion; Employ- of children and adolescents, who are refrigeration. initiative. of social assistance spending – from central government in pur- can be described as fragile, given in this regard, a comprehensive ment creation and maintenance; particularly vulnerable because they 35.5% in FY08/09. In contrast, suit of their social development its high level of vulnerability to package of social safety nets, and National efforts at poverty The Book Bursary Programme Protecting the balance of pay- are unable to care for themselves; Public Assistance absorbs about activities. external shocks, such as hurri- economic stimulation measures reduction are also strengthened – Ministry of Education - The ment; Protection of the Econ- Limited human capital, unemploy- 11% of social assistance expendi- canes, commodity price fluctua- are currently being pursued. by the programmes of the Na- Book Bursary Programme pro- omy and creation of a climate We wish to acknowledge their ment, and risky lifestyles among tures. Student welfare assistance tions, and global economic crises. tional Skills Development Cen- vides textbooks for student at- of sustainable investment, con- effort and to work with them in youth; Limited or no income due to We have implemented some and school feeding take up 2.2% finding new opportunities for Price increases in food and fuel tre, the OECS Skills for Inclusive tending primary and secondary tinued development and social underemployment, unemployment, Social Safety Net Programmes in and 3.8%, respectively. collaborative actions ,that will and the global economic crisis Growth, and the James Belgrave schools in St. Lucia. Students change; Maintaining economic disease, or disability among working recent times. These include:- Kou- strengthen their efforts, increase have contributed to a reduction Micro-enterprise Development are officially recommended for While we are committed, we competitiveness; Promoting age women and men; Loss of income demein Ste. Lucie Programme resources availability and sus- in growth, job losses, reduction Fund. Many young people are a bursary at the school level by recognize however, that the need economic resilience, social sta- due to retirement and disease/dis- – Ministry of Social Transfor- bility and social security; Pro- tain any new partnership rela- in employment opportunities given a second chance by par- the principal, councilor or class is great and funds are limited and ability among the elderly; and Needs mation (A programme of the St moting household survival and tionships that may be forged and declining remittances. These ticipating in the many training room teacher, a welfare officer in that we must be creative, efficient of special groups, including single Lucia Social Development Fund opportunities offered by the sustainable livelihoods through through consultation and dia- on. Minister of So- situations expose many poor and the family court or a district rep- and effective in the allocation Achievement of these Mil- headed households, the elderly tak- (SSDF) - The programme focuses Centre. There is also the Youth appropriate social policies and logue such as this Symposium cial Transformation, vulnerable households to in- resentative. and use of resources for social lennium Development Goals, is ing care of children, persons with on the family as a unit of inter- Business Trust being implement- programmes has the potential of develop- Youth and Sports, creased risks and threaten their investment. underscored by a commitment disabilities, migrants, and persons vention in the fight against pov- ed by the St Lucia Development The School Feeding Pro- ing. We see this commitment to sustainable livelihoods. St. Lucia These areas of focus and the re- Hon Leonard Spider on the part of wealthier nations affected by HIV/AIDS and/or non- erty. It seeks to empower indi- gramme – Ministry of Education We recognise that our brothers partnerships as significant and Bank to facilitate young entre- lated interventions must include Montoute,H Permanent Secretar- therefore faces significant chal- communicable diseases. (2009 Social - The programme is specifically and sisters living in poverty are to build a global partnership for gent families with the necessary preneurs in establishing busi- one based on our ethical per- ies, Deputy Permanent Secre- lenges in ensuring an adequate a people-centred planning ap- development. In reality, the an- Safety Net Assessment Report) psycho-social support necessary ness enterprises. For this Gov- aimed at feeding underprivileged able agents of their own change, suasions and the principles of taries and Programme Officers, safety net in the face of economic children who were regularly ab- but they are in need of the neces- proaches in the face of these eco- ticipated support from the de- The emphasis on the reduction to improve their quality of life in ernment it is not sufficient to train participatory democracy and Development Policy Advisor, Dr and environmental pressures and sent because of their low socio sary support to enable each and nomic challenges. Therefore, our veloped countries has not been of poverty is a high priority for various dimensions. our youth in acquiring a skill bet governance to which we sub- Marlyn Morris, Programme Dis- the changing social landscape. economic status. The programme every one of them to achieve their targeted policies and strategic in- forthcoming as expected. Nev- St. Lucia . The Government has to assist them in becoming em- scribe to as a nation. We want cussants, Symposium Facilita- Though we have made strides is open to all children now and it personal dreams and a promis- terventions, as well as the incen- ertheless, the Government of A 2009 Social Safety Net As- committed itself to the reduction ployers rather than employees, to encourage a deepening of the tor, Mr Ezra Jn Baptiste, Invited in achieving these goals and presently serves approximately ing future for their children. .We tives regimes we pursue, must be Saint Lucia hastens to renew its sessment Report supported by of poverty as an important factor thereby encouraging business cooperation between the gov- Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen. associated targets we are still 7,110 beneficiaries. should as a nation recommit our- supported by firm performance commitment to the reduction of the United Nations Children towards the achievement of eq- development and expansion of ernment and the social devel- grappling with what appears to selves to the noble fight against criteria, as conditionalties for ac- I have much pleasure in wel- poverty as exemplified by -cur Fund, The United Nations De- uitable and sustainable develop- that particular sector. In parallel, Holistic Opportunities For opment partners of the private be a never ending war against poverty, and to the eventual cessing these incentives. coming you all to this very sig- rent programmes now being im- velopment Fund and the World ment, and the attainment of the unemployed persons with viable Personal Empowerment (HOPE) and civil society groups, in the poverty. achievement of the eight Millen- nificant workshop. Just over a plemented such as the Koudmen Bank has revealed that despite Millennium Development Goals. business ideas can also receive – Ministry of Social Transforma- We recognize that the pub- planning and implementation Currently, poor families in nium Development Goals by the decade ago, at the World Summit Ste. Lucie . Indeed we are seek- some good social indicators for These goals, which we seek to both technical support and credit tion - This programme facilitates lic sector cannot act alone. We processes. This engagement three pilot areas of Saint Lucia are year 2015. . for Social Development held in ing not only to reduce extreme St Lucia such as low levels of ma- vigorously pursue, provide a from the BelFUND. Hundreds labour absorption, and help to must establish strategic partner- will serve to realize the criti- receiving special assistance with Copenhagen, Denmark, the lead- poverty by half, but through the ternal and infant mortality, uni- framework to help respond to a of micro-enterprises throughout We are mindful of the fact that ships with our , private and other cal objectives of fostering and the introduction of the Koudmen protect the indigent, poor and ers of the world came together mentioned programmes to eradi- versal primary education, low the island have benefited from in our context, poverty is both non-state actors and civil society promoting a people-centered number of developmental chal- Ste. Lucie. This ambitious so- vulnerable from the scourge of and in a display of unity and cate conditions of indigence or fertility, and increasing life ex- the excellent support provided pervasive and multi-dimension- groupings in charting a sustain- approach to development and lenges which are economic, social cial protection programme will unemployment and the vaga- unanimity not often seen in inter- extreme poverty experienced by pectancy, there exist in parallel, to young entrepreneurs by the al. Complex issues such as pover- able social and economic devel- social change that we as a gov- and environmental in nature. cater to the needs of our poor- ries of seasonal employment national fora, committed to tack- unacceptably large segments of high and increasing levels of pov- Fund. ty require multiple interventions opment programme, with clearly ernment subscribe to. Poverty represents an impor- est households by the provision such as characterises the Tour- ling the issue of global poverty in our society. erty – 25.1% in 1995 and 28.8% in to bring about the most desir- tant barrier to the achievement of a range of direct services in- Public Assistance Programme ism and to a lesser extent Banana articulated objectives which Ladies and gentlemen having all its forms and to work to build 2005/06 and the incidence of chil- able outcomes. Each of the in- There appears to be growing of social cohesion and is often a cluding, psycho-social support, – Ministry of Health - This pro- Industries. involve converting strategic vi- contextualize the present climate a better world for everyone. dren in poverty has been record- terventions by these institutions consensus that poverty is a vio- subtle, but major cross-cutting cash transfers and provision of gramme provides public assis- sion into specific performance within which we have to commit ed as higher than adults living The objectives of the pro- outlined previously, is carefully This timely and most impor- lation of human rights and that issue in other areas of social de- training and employment op- tance and welfare services to outcomes relating to national to social investment it is impera- gramme are the following: In- designed as complementary ele- tant vision was encapsulated in promoting human rights can in poverty. Over 50% of the poor velopment which include: high portunities which will redound vulnerable groups within the growth, development and social tive that we act prudently and crease food security of house- ments in the poverty reduction the Millennium Declaration and reduce poverty. Consistent with are under the age of 20 The inci- incidence of crime; high rates of to an overall improvement in the society to alleviate the impact of change. Our policies and pro- rationalize the allocation and holds; Absorption of a segment milieu. the eight Millennium Develop- the principle of social inclusion dence of poverty is slightly higher adolescent pregnancies; the pro- socio-economic circumstances of poverty. It entails the assessment grammes must therefore be clear- use of available resources in our among men than among women, of the pool of unskilled persons ment Goals which embody the embraced by the Government of liferation of unhealthy lifestyles; these families. and payment of a monthly al- We cannot ignore the plight ly targeted to ensure efficient and planning and development strat- Saint Lucia we as a Government 29% and 25% respectively. The into labour market; Provide basic framework of this most impor- particularly those that involve The work of supporting insti- lowance to citizens of the state as of the poor and vulnerable. We effective use of resources. egies to facilitate the realization are committed to the improve- incidence of poverty among fe- skills training; Provide seasonal tant initiative. The centrepiece substance abuse, and risky sex- tutions such as the Poverty Re- a result of their socio-economic cannot just hope and pray that of the desired outcomes for social ment of the standard of living of male headed households (21.2%) relief to households in support Central to this thrust is recog- of the Millennium Development ual behaviour; increases in the duction Fund and Basic Needs circumstances. The following growth in the economy will pro- development of our people. This those most in need. The current is about the same as among male of education, health, nutrition nition of the importance of moni- Goals speaks to the issue of pov- importance of vagrancy and the Trust Fund now amalgamated groups are eligible for public vide the surplus needed, to re- speaks to the need for identifying economic crisis has not enabled etc and Functions as a vital social toring and evaluating perfor- erty and dictates that all mem- headed households (22%). HIV/AIDS pandemic that has to form the St Lucia Social De- assistance and welfare services: distribute incomes and provide an institutional framework for safety net. mance and initiating corrective ber states of the United Nations our cause. These are interesting figures reached critical proportions, with velopment Fund (SSDF), in the Indigent persons; Disabled perfor essential goods, facilities and integrated, multi-sectoral social adjustments in vision, long term pursue a strategy of reducing by A world renowned donor that point to the need to re-exam- potentially devastating impacts thrust for the reduction of pov- sons;; Persons infected and af- Expenditures on the Safety services, needed by our people development policy and plan- direction, objectives, strategy half the number of people living agency named OXFAM, has ine our gender and age related on society and the economy. erty, must be commended. Each fected by HIV/AIDS; Children Net - Expenditures on social as- from the limited and ever shrink- ning process which I hope will and implementation activities, in in extreme poverty and hunger warned that another 100 million social development policy and The current global economic year millions of dollars have been in Care; Elderly persons and Out sistance was estimated at EC$34.1 ing public sector investment be one of the outcomes from this light of actual experience, chang- by the year 2015. The other goals people worldwide may be forced programming focus, to deter- crisis will serve as a major test spent by these institutions to help Patients of the Mental Health million (US$12.6 million) in resources. symposium. Facility. ing conditions, new ideas and are complementary to this effort into poverty by rising food and mine the extent to which inter- to the social and economic resil- improve the quality of life of the FY08/09. This represented less In these challenging times we I thank you for your commit- new opportunities. and include; achieving universal energy prices. ventions are meeting the needs ience of our small island devel- poorer citizens of the country. Other services provided to than 1.3% of GDP and 2.9% of must look within to find inno- ment to participate in this part- primary education; promoting The urgency to act has become of those who are really in dire oping state as we endeavour to Interventions range from im- vulnerable groups under this central government expendi- vative means of harnessing all The Government therefore, nership exercise and I have no gender equality and empower- a national priority for the Gov- need of social assistance . This navigate the turbulent waters of provements to water supply programme include: Burial as- tures. Between FY06/07 and available resources of the public, recognises that there is a need doubt that your deliberations ment of women; reducing child ernment of Saint Lucia and in this also raises the related question as international trade. These dif- systems, construction of foot- sistance; Spectacles assistance; FY08/09, social assistance spend- private and civil society sectors, to periodically re-examine or re- over the next three days will re- and maternal mortality; combat- regard a comprehensive National to how well existing policies and ficult conditions have in recent paths and home improvement Admission to Senior Citizens’ ing decreased by 5% in nominal toward growing our economy visit its social policies and pro- dound to the benefit of the peo- ing HIV/AIDS and other diseases Poverty Reduction Strategy is programme intervention initia- times devastated the mainstay to capacity building and skills Home; Educational Assistance; terms and 14% in real terms. The and providing for the economic gramme intervention initiatives, ple of St Lucia. I wish a successful and ensuring environmental sus- currently being developed by tives are helping households to of our agricultural economies training. The skills training Medical Exemptions and Disas- FY09/10 budget included an esti- development and social change to determine their impacts, level outcome to this symposium tainability. Government through the Minis- manage their social, economic and indications are, the immedi- programme has been particu- ter/Fire Assistance mated 43% real increase in social necessary for the qualitative im- of efficiency and effectiveness Page 8 Saturday January 16, 2010

promotion of social integration, Our social development and poverty eradication individual self esteem and cultural identity; (2) The provision agendas have emphasized three strategic objectives of sustainable economic opportunities and (3) The promotion of which include: (1) The empowerment of people and universal access to infrastructure and services. communities and the promotion of social integration, They objectives are far reaching and consistent with the strategic individual self esteem and cultural identity; (2) The priorities articulated by my Gov- ernment, particularly in respect provision of sustainable economic opportunities of poverty reduction; investing and (3) The promotion of universal access to in human resource development and the provision of quality com- infrastructure and services munity services and infrastruc- tural development. The question must be asked: what kind of future do we wish to bequeath to our children? How might we act today to ensure a promising future? Hon. Leonard Montoute At least part of the answer lies Minister for Social in our prudent and sustainable Transformation, Youth and Sports use of existing resources and a social domain characterized by he Ministry of Social Trans- the absence of fear, poverty and formation is delighted to deprivation. We seek the eventu- Tpartner with the Office of al emergence of a St. Lucian So- the Prime Minister and the Minis- ciety built on equity, fairness and try of Finance, Economic Affairs & social wellbeing which future National Development in hosting generations would fully enjoy. this very important symposium. The Government of St Lucia Over the past few months, my is resolute in its determination Ministry has been able to con- to improve the quality of life for tinue to fulfill its mandate of di- all St. Lucians. With this commit- rectly impacting on people’s lives ment comes the solemn responsi- through a myriad of interventions bility to provide adequate social and sustainable social develop- protection to the more vulnerable ment programmes. Our social groups among us, and to work development and poverty eradi- assiduously towards the creation cation agendas have emphasized of a more just, more equitable three strategic objectives which and more inclusive society. include: (1) The empowerment of Minister Montoute delivering his address people and communities and the Continued on page 9

Participants at opening ceremony Saturday January 16, 2010 Page 9

Dr Marlyn Morris-Development Policy Advisor and Chairperson of the Opening Ceremony Prime Minister , Hon. Stephenson King delivering the keynote address

Continued from page 8 Many of the issues earmarked for discussion at this Symposium are influenced by or intertwined with the global realities we face on a daily basis as a nation. We are all too familiar with the plight of the banana industry and the impact of players who are able to dwarf our feeble attempts at reasonable participation in fair trade. Saint Lucia has made significant investments in human and social development. As a result, the overall Human Development Index for Saint Lucia was .728 in the Human Development Report of 2000. The 2007 report placed the country in 69th position from among 189 UN member countries. This represents an improvement from 2000 when we were placed in 88th position among 174 countries. Mr Ezra Jn Baptiste, Symposium Facilitator Saint Lucia is among the countries with medium human development status, as are most of the of the ten percent or so of our citi- marginal producers has created independent Caribbean nations, zens who suffer from significant major social dislocation, initially except Barbados and the Baha- disabilities. in rural communities, and with mas on the one hand; ranked as Increasingly, we are witness- the flight to Castries and envi- 30th and 33rd, and Haiti ranked ing a proliferation of socially dis- rons, and eventually excessive 149 at the other extreme. placed persons; some of whom concentration and overcrowding, have taken up residence on the crime, and other forms of social Encouraging as this may seem, streets and sidewalks of Castries decay. as a Small Island Developing and Soufriere. This disturbing Saint Lucia boasts a wide range state, we still have a considerable phenomenon must be brought way to go. of safety net programs, which under control, and as a policy if adequately reconfigured and As a Ministry, we note that un- measure, the Government of made more efficient could ad- Saint Lucia is seeking to develop employment is still unacceptably dress critical risks faced by these programmes to help reintegrate high among the youth and sev- segments of the population which eral complain of not being able to those unfortunate citizens into are most poor and vulnerable. get jobs and even if they do man- mainstream society. Governments often overlook age to get a job, the pay is so low Our attitudes towards older the capacity of civil society as an that it is insufficient to meet one’s persons leave much to be de- instrument of social wellbeing or day to day needs. Several of these sired. Ageing is a natural pro- even the creation of wealth. As a young people hold the view that cess which every human being nation we recognize the power the education system does not will ultimately experience. As a of these institutions that play adequately prepare them for the society we need to recognize the such a pivotal role in national Participants in working group sessions demands of the job market. contribution of our older citizens; development by promoting so- Persons with disabilities are for having set the foundation on cial cohesion and building social tions within the public service ships with the NGO Community another group at risk in the soci- which we now build. capital. must work in tandem to achieve through more active engage- ety, and are likely to be poorer in Saint Lucia has experienced the synergies we so often crave. ment in Community Develop- an environment that often fails to In light of the foregoing, the ef- the travails of adjustment of two Civil Society Organizations are ment and social Transformative recognize their capabilities, and fective coordination of social pol- of its export sectors. This has encouraged to come on board so processes. to provide them with the oppor- icy should be seen as a national created hardship and social de- as to ensure the achievement of tunity to achieve their full poten- development imperative of high- In closing, I wish you pleasant privation for a population and holistic social development and tial. There is much that needs to est priority. and fruitful deliberations during for a country that has had lim- ensuring the optimal reach of be done, by the Government as a this Symposium and may we con- ited experience in dealing trade Social policies are not an end in existing social safety nets to help matter of social policy regarding tinue to reinforce the partnership adjustment. themselves but a means of forg- protect our numerous vulnerable this vulnerable group. Neverthe- that will enable the collective ef- ing a balanced society and pro- groups. less, there remains in the general Given the scale of the changes fort to fight the still lingering moting the national good. population, a lack of apprecia- that have been necessary in the My Ministry is therefore ac- scourges of marginalization, pov- tion, of the needs and challenges banana industry, elimination of Social development institu- tively seeking to foster partner- erty and hunger in our country Page 10 Saturday January 16, 2010 Toward a Fresh Approach to National Social Development Policy and Planning Process

he Government of Saint framework will be the formal Lucia is committed to sub- adoption of the Millennium De- Tstantially improving the velopment Goals as a benchmark quality of life of Saint Lucians for achievement of social devel- and promoting sustainable de- opment targets. Despite being velopment within an enabling a signatory to the Millennium policy environment character- Declaration, St Lucia has not ized by peace and prosperity. been able to purposefully pursue This commitment is embodied achievement of the Goals their within a new National Visioning associated targets and indicators. Exercise that aims to coordinate Adoption and pursuit of the re- and harmonize the key interven- spective targets will provide yet tions of all social development another premise for inter-sectoral institutions from the public and collaboration as we join the inter- private sectors, civil society orga- national community by seeking nizations and community- based consensus to meet all MDG goals organizations. and targets by 2015. This goal is, however, unlikely Among the key objectives of to be achieved in the absence of a the symposium are: examination comprehensive social policy that and enhancement of the prudent complements, guides and sup- use of resources; review the pol- ports all domains of national de- icy-making and implementation Mr Donovan Williams, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Transformation addressing velopment. processes; rationalization of ex- participants at Opening Ceremony The current culture of social isting programmes for improved policy formulation appears large- and effective delivery of service; ly based on gut feelings, hunches The Government of Saint Lucia In keeping with this philoso- as it promotes good governance development of an institutional and initiatives developed with- fully appreciates the intrinsic val- phy, the Symposium is expected through multi-level consulta- policy and planning framework out a methodical basis. What is ue of a people-centred, multi-sec- to provide an avenue for social tion and consensus building in for building social resilience and needed is evidence-based policy toral and collaborative approach development partners to work a manner that is inclusive and sustainable livelihoods; and ar- formulation and a modern de- to national development. together towards identifying participatory. The approach pre- ticulation of a roadmap for ad- cision making culture within The phenomenon of poverty, a sustainable framework for scribes strategic management of dressing key social development social processes in an organized, which social policy is framed and is considered both as a symp- streamlining, rationalizing and issues. harmonizing institutional re- inclusive and systematic manner developed based on empirical tom and as a cause of a myriad Private sector and civil society sponses to social development. and policy development through evidence pertaining to the par- of social problems, which af- institutions are also encouraged dialogue, cross-sector planning, ticular environment. fect many individuals, house- The Integrated Development to adopt this inclusive frame- information exchange and re- Consistent with the over-arch- holds, and communities in Saint Planning Approach provides work which offers more effective search ing themes of integration and Lucia. Indeed poverty is at the both the platform and the centre- outcomes for their programme collaboration, the National Social centre of human development piece for the symposium insofar Part of the Social Development interventions. Policy and Programming Sym- issues facing the society at this posium initiated as a collabora- time. Consequently, the need for tive venture involving the Min- comprehensive Social Policy is istry of Social Transformation, heightened due to the extent and Youth & Sports, the Office of the severity of social issues that affect Prime Minister and the Ministry people and society today. of Economic Planning and Na- It is envisaged therefore, that tional Development. The Sym- the further development and im- posium was designed to bring plementation of social policy will into sharper focus, contemporary result in the further enhancement social development issues and of the welfare and wellbeing of all explore the policies and strategic individuals, families, groups and interventions that could provide communities in the society, giv- the most effective way to develop ing special consideration to those the social sector on a sustainable among us who are poor, vulner- basis. able and disadvantaged. It is recognized that a co- The Government of Saint Lu- ordinated social development cia envisages that this keystone approach is imperative at this initiative will facilitate the de- juncture of our development and velopment of a collaborative, demands a social policy frame- integrative and multi-sectoral work that is both relevant and framework which will serve as a appropriate in order to address platform to continuously engage several current and emerging all social development partners critical human and social devel- from the public, private and Civil opment issues and concerns that Society Organizations. characterize the Saint Lucian so- Such an approach is even ciety today. more critical now as it is becom- Furthermore, this approach ing increasingly apparent that underpins integrated develop- evidence-based policy formula- ment planning which seeks to tion is a critical success factor for align sectoral planning with na- promoting and guiding strategic tional development planning and interventions for national social the convergence of social and development in a scientific and economic planning. sustainable manner. Participants in working group sessions Saturday December 19, 2009 Page 11 375 Nationals Benefit From The Ssdf Christmas Stimulus Package

or the third consecutive could have money for the festive construction of footpaths, clear- must never underestimate what Bank (CDB) through its con- year, the Government of season. ing up of grass and debris and an injection of cash can do. The tinuing BNTF programme; (2) FSaint Lucia through the The SSDF explained that the general beautification in their re- figures might have seemed small, The European Union (EU); (3) The Government of Saint Lu- Ministry of Social Transforma- objective of the package was to ul- spective communities. but the money went a long way cia and (4) The Canadian Inter- tion and the administration of timately inject money into the is- By the SSDF’s account (See towards making it a better ex- national Development Agency the Saint Lucia Social Develop- land’s economy by providing em- table below) the beneficiaries perience for many Saint Lucians (CIDA), through the CDB. ment Fund (SSDF) made Christ- ployment for some 375 people. were each awarded a total of this past Christmas.” The SSDF is committed to mas a little happier for some The beneficiaries of the pro- EC$1,500.00. The Saint Lucia Social Develop- needy families on the island. its mandate to reduce pov- gramme were selected from four Scott ansEv of the SSDF said ment Fund is funded by soft loans and grants from regional and in- erty through financial and Through what was called constituencies, namely Dennery the just concluded stimulus pro- moral support in education, ternational funding agencies. the Christmas Stimulus Pack- North, Gros Islet, Micoud South gramme was most gratifying as health and socio-economic age, the SSDF provided tem- and Dennery South and they it allowed many Saint Lucians The SSDF is funded by four programmes designed to im- porary employment for hun- were employed to undertake to have a most enjoyable season. main organizations / institutions: prove the lot of indigent and dreds of nationals so that they short term projects such as the “The response was great and one (1) The Caribbean Development poor people in Saint Lucia.

Saint Lucia Social Development Fund St. Lucia Social Development Fund Christmas StimulusChristmas Package Stimulus Package Expenditure StatementExpenditure Statement

Project / Constituency # of Beneficiaries Amount ($)

Gros Islet 26 89,690.00

Micoud South 30 76,304.00

Dennery North 56 162,740.00

Dennery South 263 89,888.00

Administration Fee 50,000.00

Total Expensed 468,622.00

Total Received (500,000.00)

Surplus /Deficit (31,378.00)

Total Beneficiaries 375

Average Income Per Person 1200 Page 12 Saturday January 16, 2010 Bird Book For Schools Launched Here!

The Bananaquit The Green Throated Carib The Royal Tern The Saint Lucia Oriole The Saint Lucia Warbler

oung Saint Lucians in The teaching material is aimed only to this island. In addition, The Bird Book of Saint Lucia the birds that make up their en- particular will soon be particularly at schools in Saint twenty-four of the 58 species of for Caribbean Schools is expect- vironment. educated about the many Y Lucia and in other Caribbean birds found in the Caribbean are ed to help sensitize and educate The Bird Book of Saint Lucia birds that inhabit the forests and islands. also found on St Lucia. the children of Saint Lucia to for Caribbean Schools was initi- flora around the island. Unique to Saint Lucia’s nation- Some species have gained no- appreciate the environment in ated by Mr. Denys Springer, who The government of Saint Lu- al identity is some of its wildlife tice on postage stamps and in which they live and to respect is currently Director of Infor- cia in collaboration with the and in particular its birds. books and the Saint Lucia Parrot nature. mation Services and it is hoped Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) earlier this week About 74 species of birds has become the national bird. It will also enable future gen- that it will raise a consciousness launched a book and two DVDs are resident on the island six of All of these birds will be featured erations to take pleasure in rec- among Saint Lucians to preserve ognizing and being able to name on birds prevalent to the island. which are endemic or unique in the recently released book. and appreciate its wildlife more.

Author Denys Springer shares a light moment with Prime Minister The author receives congratulations from the Prime Minister while Ambassador Stephenson King and Minister of the Environment, Richard Frederick to Taiwan Tom Chou looks on

Office of the Prime Minister, 5th Floor, Greaham Louisy Administrative Building, Waterfront, Castries, Saint Lucia • Tel: 1 758 468- 2111 • Fax: 1 758 453-7352