Saint Lucia No. 152. Saturday, August 26, 2006

A publication of the Department of Information Services

Labour Code One Step Closer 200 Employed on Rodney Bay First Ever Fisheries Census Understanding for Castries Gros - page 2 Marine projects – Page 3 – Page 6 Islet Highway Project – Page 7

“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 Saturday, August 26, 2006 LABOUR CODE ONE STEP CLOSER

he enactment of a new Labour the country the confidence that Gov- ing that term because I think we have Code for St. Lucia was taken ernment was moving ahead with the to think about the country and the fu- Tone step closer last Friday process. ture of the country. We have to think when members of Cabinet, the At- The Prime Minister also expressed about what the country requires and torney General’s office and technical the view that the adoption of the new how to progress. The economy is do- officers from the Ministry of La- labour code should come after shared ing exceedingly well and we must not bour met to review the draft code. consensus by all relevant parties. Dr. engage in decision making that can Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony Anthony noted that Saint Lucians compromise in any way what is tak- described Friday’s meeting as an im- were clamouring for the code and ing place. But at the same time we portant step forward in the process that there were anxieties on the part of have to give both sides their due and of drawing up the new Labour Code employers. But he said he has always that is why it is important that we ar- and added that he hoped that the felt that the code should evolve from rive at a shared consensus in this un- review would have given workers in a shared consensus. “ “ I keep on us- dertaking.” Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony Saint Lucia At Tourism Cultural Symposium Security Workshop For September he next important engage- tive of the importance that the Foun- four member team of pri- which to reduce the risk of the tour- ment for the Cultural Devel- dation has placed on rewarding those vate/public sector law en- ism plants in the Caribbean to acts of opment Foundation-CDF, who have contributed meaningfully to Aforcement and tourism of- terrorism.” Tnow that Carnival 2006 is history, is the art form. “Only in such a way can ficials ( two from each sector) this The second workshop is sched- the staging of a national symposium. you inspire confidence on their part in week represented St. Lucia at the uled for Mid September in St. Kitts The symposium carded for Septem- the organization of carnival and cer- first in a series of workshops on and Nevis, while St. Lucia will host ber this year, will provide the CDF an tainly the major cultural players-the tourism and security which began the last of the series slated for Sep- opportunity to review past carnival wider society and the authorities, and festivities and seek a fresh approach in Grenada on Monday and ended tember 25th. Meanwhile the OAS show healthy respect from them.” to upcoming ones. Director of the on Friday. The workshops are be- Director, has lauded the efforts of Foundation Teddy Francis, said next Vice President - Marketing for Cable ing organized by the Organization as the only month’s event is part of efforts to and Wireless Premium Gold sponsor of of American States-OAS, under country in the Caribbean to provide re-brand and improve the festivity. Mass 2006 Cheryl Francis- in congratu- the theme “Inter-American, tour- staff from the public sector to help Francis who made those comments lating the winners,said the company, is ism, and recreational facilities se- with designing programs that will during the prize giving ceremony for committed to keeping St. Lucia’s cultural curity”. Director of the OAS Sec- respond to terrorism. Carnival 2006 on Wednesday August traditions, especially carnival alive. retariat in St. Lucia Paul Spencer 16th said, “We shall ensure that ev- “Our contributions also signify our “That is a substantial support continued commitment to develop- said the workshops are just one of erybody has their input, from police which the government of Trinidad is ment of st. Lucia and the progress of the ways that the OAS is lending through to tourism officials, through providing. Other countries that are the mass makers, band leaders, in our people. We are also delighted that support to members states in the providing support are US, Columbia, shaping this all important mass.” we were able to add our own special area of security. Brazil, Uraguay, but for a Caribbean Commenting on the prize giving touch to this year’s carnival celebra- “The private sector entities are the country to delegate two staff mem- ceremony, almost one month after tions through the TV program bmobile ones that implement or run the tour- bers from its ministry of National Se- the close of the 2006 Carnival, Fran- live,” said the C&W representative. ism plant, be it hotels be it the tour- curity to work at the ...secretariat is cis says the CDF has been making a Among the award recipients were the ism industry and they are sending a substantial contribution and shows concerted effort to ensure that prizes wining carnival bands, sponsors, Carni- two persons to that workshop and the importance that the Caribbean re- are presented within a one-month time val queen contestants, soca artists, media the whole idea is to plan ways in gion attaches to this issue.” frame following carnival . According houses, community organizations, and to Francis such immediacy is indica- private sector organizations. Social Transformation Minister Interacts with CYEX 2006 delegates inister of Social Transforma- Delegates were given an opportunity people who would like to get involved in tion of St Lucia, the Honour- to question the Minister and the follow- politics? Mable Ms Menissa Rambally, ing are some of the questions posed and As young people you need to utilize has urgerd delegates of the Common- her answers.. every opportunity that allows you to be wealth Caribbean Youth Exchange What are some of the challenges you seen by community and at other levels in (CYEX) to be responsible youth lead- are faced with as a young Minister and your country. Give yourself a voice and ers. The thirty-year-old Minister, who how do you maintain your integrity? support the politician who will support was elected to parliament at the age The challenges I am faced with are and push your ideas forward. Do not get of 21, addressed the young people on multifaceted. Stereotyping is the biggest involved in stereotyping. issues related to youth and politics at challenge for me. Being a young female What are your views on complacency the Lambert Beach Resort in Tortola, Minister, older people often want to im- in the Political arena? BVI, last Wednesday August 16th. pose their thoughts by influencing my There are programmes and other ini- “Do not let society define what your ideas and views because they felt that I tiatives sitting on the shelves for a num- needs are…your needs are the same as was too young to make those decisions ber of years that have not been looked every other citizen in your country, hence for myself. I was also being pressured at. It is very important that you realize leadership should be about integrating to address women needs ahead of men. that the civil society process influences people and not stereotyping as some These opportunities helped me to state the pace of progress in the region with have the custom of doing,” she said. clear my stand against stereotyping. regards to the implementation of initia- Delegates were advised that it was Despite that I maintained my integrity tives. Politicians should find a way to alright to be evolving as young people. by being true to myself and surround- help to process. “It is okay to move from one interest to ing myself with positive people who had another. Your minds are active and you How are you able to keep up with the something to share with me that I could negative publicity in the media in St. Lu- are exploring possibilities…if those pos- learn from. sibilities take you to politics, then it calls Hon. Menissa Rambally cia and still keep your integrity? for development, integration and sharing Do you think there is a need for politi- When it comes to my integrity and your knowledge...politics is a people- gests that the Caribbean is not removed cal education in the Caribbean? character I do not hesitate to defend my- driven career so you must have the inter- from the rest of the global environment Yes, we definitely need that in the self. Apart from that I have adopted a est of others at heart.” because what ever happens there affects Caribbean. We have been taught for too well known philosophy which says ‘the “ Today, possibilities are immense this region and youth leaders are going long that politicians are bad people. If best defence is no defence. I feel that and limitless and this generation is doing to be faced with increasing challenges. there is political education in the Carib- young people can play a role in the me- things that were not traditionally done,” She added that the Caribbean has to find bean then people will be more informed dia. The media should be responsible for Minister Rambally observed. Delegates safeguards to protect the cahievements it about the issues affecting them. the information they disseminate despite were told that the real world today sug- has made. What would be your advice to young their right to freedom of speech.

Saturday, August 26, 2006 Saint Lucia 3 Over 200 employed on Rodney Bay Marine Tourism Projects ver 200 Saint Lucians are some of the 60 units for the first phase employed on two yachting- of the project will also be open in time Orelated construction sites in for CWC 2007. By their estimates, the the Rodney Bay area that will raise Landings officials say the impressive the profile of the island’s yachting and elaborate lagoon being constructed sector and provide added up-scale as part of the billion-dollar project will accommodation for Cricket World also be completed in time for Cricket Cup 2007. World Cup. The Landings at Rodney Bay, cur- The other yachting and marine-re- rently employs some 135 workers on lated property also taking shape at its construction site on the Pigeon Is- Rodney Bay is The Harbour, which land Causeway. Managers of the proj- employs 85 workers. Tropical Homes, ect say work is progressing smoothly as the company behind The Harbour, says the island’s biggest tourism investment that project too is quickly taking shape. project is taking shape. They also re- The Landings and The Harbour are port that sales are progressing smooth- both major investments in the tourism ly, with some 46 units already sold. In and yachting industry sector by local addition, the contractors estimate that hoteliers and entrepreneurs. The Landings Construction Site

PM PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR MARINE The Marine INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION Industries MESSAGE FROM PRIME MINISTER DR KENNY D. ANTHONY TO THE 2006 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE MARINE INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION Association OF SAINT LUCIA (MIASL), AUGUST 19, 2006 of St. Lucia recall the official launch of the forward to close cooperation between The Marine Industries Association MIASL last year, at which Gov- your Association and the St. Lucia of St. Lucia (MIASL), which held I ernment was represented by the Tourist Board to initiate the necessary its 2nd Annual General Meeting at Minister of Tourism, Honourable advertising and promotion directed the Auberge Seraphine on Sat. Aug Phillip J. Pierre. Shortly thereaf- specifically at the Yachting Sector. I 19th 2006, was founded as a non- ter, you may recall that Her Excel- trust that this cooperation will also ex- profit company in 2004 by a group of lency Dame , in the tend to other areas to ensure that St. yachting enthusiasts. The MIASL is Throne speech, promised Govern- Lucians benefit from the numerous job now accepted at home and abroad as ment’s intervention to address the opportunities which I am told are of- the voice of the yachting sector in St. legislative regime for yachting and fered by your industry. Lucia, and has managed to double its the sea. We are pleased that the MI- On the regional scene, I am reli- membership to 70 since its inaugura- ASL has conducted a lot of research ably informed that St. Lucia was a co- tion in April 2005. Among the signifi- into the existing legislative regime, founder of the Caribbean Marine Asso- cant achievements during its first year and submitted it’s findings to the At- ciation, and also holds the presidency were the establishment of the website torney General’s office, in order that www.miasl.org; securing OPSR fund- of this regional body. The formation of ing for the preparation of a strategic together we may begin to consider the CMA is an important development, the enactment of yachting specific plan for the yachting sector; partici- as no less than the World Bank has rec- pation in the Grand Pavois boat show legislation to enable the sustainable ognized the importance and potential in France as part of an OECS delega- growth of this important segment of of promoting the Caribbean as a single tion; working with the Marine Police our tourism product. yachting destination, in its major study Unit and US Coast Guard to estab- I realize that the contribution of the on Caribbean development in the 21st lish a volunteer maritime search and yachting sector is perhaps not as well century. rescue unit; working with local law known as it ought to be, and that it may Finally, I urge you to continue the enforcement agencies on maritime actually be greater than is reported. The good work which you have begun, and safety and security; working with the latest figure that we have, EC$139.2 pledge my Government’s continued SLHTA on crime prevention; joint for 2004, is based on incomplete data. support, within the limits of our nation- promotions with SLASPA at mega- I expect that the MIASL will take the al resources, to your Association in the yacht events in Florida; damage limi- necessary steps to correct this, working pursuit of its Aims & Objectives. I also tation (locally and abroad) in recent assiduously with other agencies such look forward to a successful staging of instances of crime against yachting as SLASPA and Customs. I also look Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony the Prime Minister’s Cup next year. visitors; working with various Min- istries to achieve regulatory certainty in the yachting sector; co-founding the Caribbean Marine Association with Antigua, Grenada & Trinidad – St. Lucia holds the presidency. The MIASL expects to focus on marketing the sector (locally and abroad), human resource develop- ment, search & rescue, safety & se- curity, and establishing legal & regu- latory clarity in the yachting sector, working with various public and pri- vate sector bodies. The importance of data gathering and analysis, attract- ing locals into the industry, and the establishment of a calendar of local events will also be given high prior- ity. The Yachting Industry has been making a remarkable contribution to national economic development. In 2000, the total economic impact of the yachting sector was EC$72.64 million (ECLAC 2002), which rose to EC$139.2 million in 2004 (ACME Consulting 2005). The MIASL is working to ensure the continuation of this growth. Rodney Bay Marina 4 Saint Lucia Saturday, August 26, 2006 Saturday, August 26, 2006 Saint Lucia 5 Nurses Needed For St. Lucia’s Parents Support New Medical Facilities Cuban Student he opening of the New Mental health service, be it in the community of Sir Arthur Lewis Community Col- Hospital in St. Lucia, sched- or be it in the hospitals and an opportu- lege to train nursing personnel. Mean- hief Medical Officer Dr. hands of any one set of politicians; Nursing Programme uled for 2007, and a new gen- nity to have an increase in our nursing while the regional option is already be- Stephen King has de- this must be in the hands of the peo- eralT hospital by 2010, will generate a personnel is a wonderful, is a wonder- ing pursued with the impending arrival Cscribed the National Health ple, that is why the plan is important arents of St. Lucian stu- order to become qualified nurses. great demand in St. Lucia for regis- ful one. These are people that we need here of 25 Cuban nurses who will be Strategic Plan as very ambitious so that people can hold politicians dents on the Cuban Nurs- Minister Greaves called on parents tered nurses and other medical pro- to embrace. ” assiting in the island’s various hospi- and comprehensive. According accountable for it.” ing Scholarship programme to work closely with the Ministry in fessionals. That is the view of Chief Dr. King, however, underscored the tals and health centres. Under a coop- to Dr. King, officials of the Pan The final draft of the National have expressed their support finding ways of lending support to Medical officer Dr. Stephen King need for nurses trained in delivering eration programme between St. Lucia’s American Health Organization Strategic Health Plan which, will Pand appreciation for the programme. the students. He also reiterated gov- who was speaking at a Press confer- mental health services, given the new Ministry of Health and the Ministry of who have been involved in the guide the health sector over the next The parents made their views known ernment’s commitment to improve ence last week on the issue of the 300 mental health hospital, “ We anticipate Health of , local nurses will re- process, have lauded the amount five years, was submitted to Cabinet following a special meeting, with of- the quality of health care in Saint Lu- nursing scholarships provided to St. great demand for mental health nurses ceive expert training from the Cubans of work that has gone into this ex- on Monday.The plan serves as a road ficials of the Ministry of Health and cia and expressed appreciation to the Lucia by the Government of Cuba. in particular and other mental health to enable them to function in an Oph- ercise. The CMO congratulated all map and details the objectives and Education, which had been called to Government and People of Cuba for Dr. King said that St. Lucia has to ur- personnel;” and he added that St. Lucia thalmology Centre which is to be es- the participants who were instru- values in health. Dr. King said that discuss the welfare of the students the Cuban Scholarship Programme. gently train medical professionals to would seek to have the Cuban nursing tablished at Victoria Hospital to serve mental in developing the strategic health officials and the Cabinet of in Cuba. Scores of parents turned The meeting also provided a plat- meet the increased human resource educational authorities put some empha- as a regional centre for thousands of health plan and expressed his deep Ministers will soon meet to discuss out at the NIC Conference Centre form for parents to air their views and passion for it. the plan. needs of the local health sector as it sis on “ how our nurses, our students up Caribbean patients seeking eye care in on Tuesday for the meeting which concerns.The general sentiment from becomes modernised. there can be trained in mental health.” . The eye patients from other “I am very passionate about it, be- “It is going to involve us walking had been promised by the Minis- the parents was that the programme He stressed that the demand for The Chief Medical Officer pointed OECS countries will be treated in St. cause I am a St. Lucian, I live in this Cabinet through it to a certain extent, ter for Health, Honourable Damian was a good opportunity both for the nurses would be critical and he was out that while St. Lucia was training Lucia rather than taking the long trip country and I know that if we do not so we are anticipating a session with Greaves, following his visit to Cuba personal development of young do it, we are going to be that much the Cabinet of Ministers to explain therefore fully supportive of the Cuban nurses in Cuba, the Ministry of Health to Cuba for their medical care. The last week. Saint Lucians and also good for the standard of care at the St. Lucia Centre poorer as a people and I think it is to them and to answer all their ques- nursing scholarship programme: “In will, in the interim, have to consider The Minister’s visit to Cuba, as well development of the country. Two of particular I want to say that nursing will be at the same level as what they so important; it cannot be left in the tions and queries that they have.” strategies to bring on board nurses from as the meeting with the parents, had be- the parents spoke to the GIS after the personnel are the back bone of your the region and to increase the capacity would have received in Havana. Dr. Stephen King come necessary following some initial meeting. apprehension among students and par- Sister Sheba of Micoud said:“ You ents caused by questions of equivalency must never really base and rely on raised here by the President of the local things you hear outside; you must also 100 More Nursing Nurses Association . It was stated that look for the main sources and what I the students would not be graduating as have heard here today, sounds ok; it registered nurses following their three looks like there is future and progress Students year programme but that they would be for our children and so we should give all the support we can to our children The Government of St. Lucia Monday that local nurses undergo- nursing assistants.Further to that, some media houses claimed that the students and to those in authority to make things announced this week that it will ing the scholarship studies in Cuba were facing intolerable living condi- work smoothly in the best interest of soon begin to recruit the remaining have been given an added oppor- our children and our country.” tions in Cuba. approximately 100 local nurses to tunity to return home with more The Minister briefed the parents Nathaniel Reynolds of Castries than just an Assistant or General complete the complement of 300 on the latest developments regard- spoke about the two departments nursing scholarships originally of- Nursing certificates. The Cuban ing the programme and reconfirmed of government involved in the pro- fered by the Cuban government Authorities have agreed to allow his public statement last week, that at gramme: “I think right now the Minis- earlier this year. 182 students went those students who qualify to ex- their end of their three years of stud- try of Health and the Ministry of Edu- to Cuba in July in the first batch of tend their studies by two years in ies in Cuba, the students, like those cation have realised their shortcomings scholars for the programme. The order to graduate with a Bachelor’s at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community and they are trying to solve those issues Government also announced on Degree in Nursing. College, would be eligible to sit the and those problems which I welcome Caribbean Nursing examination, in very much.”

The new Mental Health Hospital Under Construction off the Millennium Highway More Government Attention To Older Citizens Brazilian ARV Drugs for Saint Lucia/OECS The Government of St. Lucia is Meanwhile it has been announced The involvement of private phar- pertensive Pilot Program is that it will placing the concerns of older citizens that the Welfare Unit of the Ministry he OECS Secretariat is shipment of the ARVs from Brazil and distribution of the ARVs. ation of such assistance. The OECS macies is seen as a vital component of increase accessibility to the services. a notch higher on the national agenda. of Health is to be expanded to more moving closer towards fa- the distribution of the drugs to OECS “The Brazilian delegation was very HIV/AIDS Project Unit (OECSHAPU) the Universal Health Care System. Ac- However despite these advantages, Dr. Hon. Jon Odlum, the Parliamentary adequately cater to the needs of old- Secretary in the Ministry of Health, cilitating the provision of Member Countries. impressed by everything that we saw and the OECS Pharmaceutical Procure- cording to Chief Medical Officer Dr. King has indicated that health officials er persons. Accordingly the welfare who has responsibility for older per- T Delegates also talked about the pos- ment Service Unit (OECS/PPS) were Stephen King, phase two of the UHC are aware that there will be implications unit is soon to be reorganized and re- Anti-Retroviral drugs, pledged by here. We heard very clear and objective sons confirmed this last Wednesday the Government of Brazil, to per- sibility of following up and monitoring presentations of how your pharmaceu- part of the Secretariat team at Mon- will focus on engaging private pharma- for including the private phramacies in named the Division of Ageing and cies in the dispensation of free drugs the arrangements and that this would while addressing a consultation on the sons in the OECS with HIV and the impact of Brazil’s contribution to tical logistics work and this is some- day’s meeting with the Brazil delega- finalization of a National Policy for Welfare Services. Mr. Odlum says: under the Diabetes and Hypertensive therefore require intense discussion and “Merely providing a monthly al- Aids. help ensure that the objectives are met. thing that was very important for us on tion. Delegates from CARICOM, the older persons. The consultation was pilot program. Dr King says the im- negotiations. He said: “For the time be- lowance for older persons assisting Laura Segall, an advisor to Brazil’s this visit to see how organised and how Clinton Foundation, the Pan Caribbean made possible through funding from This follows a recent series of ne- portance of getting the private sector ing what we have been doing is using the them with their medical needs and Aids programme for International Co- hard Caribbean Countries are working Partnership against HIV/AIDS PAN- the Pan American Health Organiza- gotiations at the OECS Secretariat, on board cannot be over stated. public pharmacies in the dispensation of burying them when they die is not on this as well. We were very impressed CAP and UNAIDS were also involved “We think it is important for a couple tion and the United Nations. with representatives of the Brazil- operation says the meeting was very the free medications; if we are going to enough, especially when it is only a with the level of commitment and the in the discussions. of reasons, one from a principled point move into private pharmacies it means According to Mr. Odlum, the national ian Government on Monday August objective and both sides are committed small proportion of them who ben- amount of work that is being put into of view, UHC wants to harmonize public that we obviously have to compensate policy must reflect all issues and concerns 7th 2006. The meeting reviewed a to satisfying the specific needs of each In June of this year the OECS Sec- of older persons. “We have to critically ex- efit from these services. OECS Member Country in areas such the HIV/Aids struggle here.”-Segall retariat hosted a conference involving and private sector because we appreciate these pharmacies for the resources that project proposal to facilitate Bra- that you require this country’s health ser- they would expend in terms of even dis- amine the document at hand to see whether The Parliamentary Secretary has as first line medicine. She added that Segall also confirmed that Brazil’s numerous stakeholders in the area of zil’s donation of Anti-Retroviral vice to be delivered by the both; and that pensing of the free medication.” those important principles independence, called on the St. Lucian society to re- pledge may be a two year commitment Antiretroviral or ARV Treatment for Drugs (ARVs) to 500 patients in the Brazil is working on making the ARVs is is important to harmonize them so that Meanwhile the final draft of the Na- care participation self fulfilment and digni- spond to a call by the United Nations OECS. available in the shortest possible time. in the first instance and noted that a persons living with HIV and AIDS to we can achieve mutual health goals in the tional Health Strategic Plan 2006-2011 ty enshrined in resolution 46-91 have been for government and civil society to The meeting looked at the feasibil- The Brazil Government Advisor ac- joint evaluation between the OECS and scan the situation in the OECS and in- national interest.” was submitted to Cabinet on Monday. The embraced ion this document. Whether it is work together in promoting the rights ity aspects such as logistical arrange- knowledged the capacity of the OECS Brazil regarding the impact of Brazil’s form ways on improving ARV supply One other reason for engaging pri- Chief Medical Officer has described it as a appropriate to our situation, whether it is of all older persons regardless of age, ments, the quantum of the ARVs, the Secretariat’s machinery to facilitate the contribution will inform the continu- and management. vate pharmacies in the Diabetes and Hy- very ambitious and comprehensive plan. realistic, achievable.” gender or social economic status. 6 Saint Lucia Saturday, August 26, 2006 First Ever Fisheries Census or the first time in Saint Lu- cia’s Agricultural history, a FFisheries census will be under- taken alongside the Agriculture cen- sus. The initiative has received the blessings of the Food and Agricul- tural Organization - the FAO . The Census will be undertaken as a joint collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisher- ies and the FAO. The census is scheduled to start in January 2007 and in light of this, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, on Tuesday, hosted a one day workshop for users and producers of agricultural and fishing sector information . During the exercise technical assistance was provided by Mr. David Marshall of the FAO. He explained that given the im- portance of the fisheries sector in the economy, it was reasonable to include it in the census. “ Fisheries is another item which is not so common in censuses. We nor- mally keep fishing out of a census of agriculture because it has again partic- ular characteristics. But where there is a lot of fishing going on in the country and where it is important, if the country wishes to include questions specifical- ly on fishing then FAO would say yes, it’s your prerogative, you can include what you like. And if it’s important for you then of course you should include some questions on fishing.” He added that Aqua -culture will also be a new component under the census. “ In the previous programme FAO recognised that aqua -culture was a kind of farming. It’s fish -farming, it’s very different from fishing. Aqua- culture is about the breeding, the feed- Selling fish at a local fisheries complex (top) and fishing boats berthed at the Complex ing, the capturing of fish. It’s if you like – like a farmed environment. It’s often the significant changes which have oc- development of the sector and I dare within the sector vis a vis what is hap- carried out as part of an agricultural ac- curred in the agricultural sector over say the development of the sector over pening within the country as a whole.” tivity. ” the last ten years, particularly in the the few years to come. It will give us The Government Statistical Depart- Meanwhile, Acting Permanent Sec- banana industry. some indication of where we are going, ment will collaborate closely with the retary Mr. Danley Auguste says the “ So that would give us information where we should go, what we should Ministry of Agriculture during the census will provide a blue print of based on which we will program the concentrate on and what is happening census period. Banana Industry Free Of Black Sigatoka

he island’s banana farmers Isolated from this risk by the Caribbe- pretty expensive of course, because it’s have been given the good news an Sea, the Windwards banana industry more expensive than controlling the yel- Tthat their banana farms are free suffers from a much milder strain of the low sigatoka, it’s a major cost to banana of the dreaded black sigatoka infesta- Sigatoka disease (the Yellow Sigatoka) production in St. Lucia.” tion. The Banana Emergency Recov- that requires far less spraying of fungi- Where the Yellow Sigatoka is con- ery Unit – BERU announced this week cide to keep it under effective control. cerned, La Force says a stringent moni- that a thorough survey conducted by Programme Manager of BERU Mr. toring system has assisted in keeping the Unit had revealed that the banana Hilary La Force says the Unit will remain the infestation in check. “ The last three sector was not affected by Black Siga- proactive and is looking at preparing for years have been the best. The extent to toka. But there was further good news the possible identification of the black which the management of that disease as the survey also revealed that there sigatoka disease on the island at some has been carried out, has been very, was a decrease in the level of the yellow point in the future. “ But in the mean- very good. Managing the infestation sigatoka disease. time every effort is being made to ensure does not only involve the treatment, but Black Sigatoka is regarded as the it does not come in, using strict quaran- involves monitoring and the BERU has most potent banana disease. It is an tine measures to avoid its entry but if it engaged a company called Agrico to do air-borne fungus that affects banana gets into Saint Lucia, we have already the monitoring. They provide the dis- production in virtually all the major began to put an action plan in place to ease levels at any one time and make banana producing regions of the world. deal with its management which can be recommendations for treatment.” Mr. Hilary La Force

said the word products, rather than the Windward Islands, not only were WIBDECO Diversifying produce, because by products rather we a one product company, dealing than produce, we could be looking only in bananas, we had essentially a IBDECO, the Wind- seize other investment and market- at not fresh produce but processed single supply source which was the ward Islands Banana ing opportunities. goods or products .” Windward Islands. We have diver- WDevelopment Com- A group of United Kingdom con- Mr . Cornibert said the company sified that a little bit, we are taking pany, has begun a process of sultants has already been commis- is looking at the possibilities e for a lot of bananas from the Domini- consultation that will lead to the sioned to undertake an analysis that investment in order to expand its can Republic so our supply base is diversification of its product and will guide the company in that direc- product base but attention is also somewhat diversified.” supply base. In a GIS interview, tion.“ We need to look at a range of being given to expanding its supply The WIBDECO official says the Chief Executive Officer, Bernard other products that we can handle and base. move to the Dominican Republic Cornibert, said while bananas that need not necessarily be, although “On the supply side we need to has attracted some debate but it was will remain the core product, we are looking at very seriously, other look at our supply base at the mo- a necessary one in order to help the WIBDECO needs to explore and agricultural products and note that I ment until a few years ago, it was just company’s viability. Saturday, August 26, 2006 Saint Lucia 7 As Castries/Gros Islet Highway Improvement Progresses Appeal For Public Understanding

Work on the Castries Gros Islet Highway- the proposed Union Roundabout (top left ), the Vigie Roundabout (top right) and the near the Castries Comprehensive School ( bottom) he Government of St. Lucia signed on 23rd February 2006 to the along the section of the route between of Communications, Works, Trans- continues its thrust towards tune of EC$24 134 441.46 and com- Vigie and Choc Bay, a carriageway port and Public Utilities intends to Tdrastically improving the menced on 21st March 2006. The in- length of 3400m. step up their public awareness cam- road networks in St. Lucia. With the tended date for the completion of the So far works have been progress- paign about the Castries/Gros Islet completion of the West Coast Road project is 18th April 2007. ing smoothly although there has Highway project. This will be done project and the ongoing road works The road works will include the wid- been some constraints with regards through regular updates in the week- on the East coast, the Castries/Gros- ening of the road Carriageway between to the free-flow of traffic. As far as end press as well as the Nationwide Islet Highway is also in for major Jn Marie and Sons (at Vigie) and Choc. traffic management is concerned the Supplement in the Voice Newspaper transformation. The Vigie roundabout will also be re- MCWT&PU, the Police, The Engi- and PSA’s and Traffic reports daily The Castries-Gros Islet Highway constructed and two new roundabouts neer and the Contractor have been on Radio St. Lucia and NTN. Improvement Project when it is com- will be built, one near Friendship Inn meeting to discuss possible improve- The Ministry would like to thank plete is expected to greatly ease the (in the vicinity of the Gablewoods ments to the traffic management. the members of the public for their pressures associated with the flow of Mall) and the other at Choc near its Whilst all measures have been put in cooperation and patience during this traffic between the city and Gros Islet. junction to Union. place to alleviate problems, includ- phase of the project and would like Now it its first phase, this project, is Not only is the easier flow of traffic a ing public notices and posting of traf- to solicit their continued understand- being undertaken by the Government consideration under this project, but also fic signs along the roots, the public’s ing as the contractors work expedi- of Saint Lucia and implemented by the the safety of pedestrians. It is for this cooperation is essential. The traffic tiously to finish the project, which, Ministry of Communications, Works, reason that four pedestrian bridges will manager has complained about cones when completed, will greatly allevi- Transport and Public Utilities through be built along the highway as well as ad- and flashing warning lights being sto- ate most of these normal pressures, a loan from the Kuwait Fund for Arab ditional bus stops and new footpaths. len and that some motorists are still making the Castries/Gros Islet High- Economic Development. The project will also seek to upgrade ignoring some of the new measures. way a step towards the further mod- The contract for the project was and strengthen the existing pavement In the next few weeks The Ministry ernization of St. Lucia. Bordelais Talent To Be Utilised he Management of the Bor- just started a pig rearing project, and resources are limited but it will take some with outside agencies; most of what delais Correctional Facility will be extending its carpentry services time. There is a lot of hope here”. we get is from the faith based com- is leaving no stone unturned to providing furniture for schools in Hilary says the inmates at the Bor- munity, which is voluntary so its T the north of the island. to ensure that the many talents and delais Correctional Facility posses a ad-hoc at best, so we really need to skills of inmates are channelled posi- “We are looking at brining on a new wealth of talent waiting to be tapped establish programs that will have tively. According to Director, Hilary programs manager who will develop the into. However inadequate resources continuity to do all of those things.” Herman the facility is in the process programs we now have on paper, to im- are a constarint.. The Bordelais Correctional Facil- of expanding its farm and wood- plement tehm. We are just starting, there “But we try to encourage it; a lot of ity has a prison population of 498 work projects. The institution has is so much that we would like to do, again these things have to be really helped inclusive of male and females. 8 Saint Lucia Saturday, August 26, 2006 CWCSL HOLDS FIRST ROAD SHOW fficials at Cricket World Cup be in Soufriere on September 24, but event. The walk starts at the Cricket are slated for Micoud and Dennery Saint Lucia Incorporated before that there will be a fun walk on World Cup office at Colony House and with the ultimate aim of visiting all Osay they have been able to September 17 which the Local Orga- ends at the Beausejour cricket Ground. communities on the island before the disseminate quite a bit of informa- nising Committee hopes will be a big Other road shows to be put on soon World Cup comes around next year. tion to residents in the south of the island during the first in a series of road shows which was held in Vieux Fort on Sunday. Issues pertaining to Saint Lucia’s staging of matches in the 2007 Cricket World Cup were discussed in detail and those who came to the Philip Marcellin Ground were also entertained by some live cricket action. Octina Emmanuel, the Events Man- ager at Cricket World Cup Saint Lucia Incorporated, said that CWCSL was satisfied with this first road show. “The hype for cricket seems to be very vibrant in the south. Persons were asking things about ticketing of course as anything else and on accommoda- tion. There was the accommodation unit from the Ministry of Tourism there and we were able to answer quite a few questions persons had in terms of putting up their homes or their apart- ments for rent.” She said the next road show will Action in one of the cricket matches

THIS WEEK ON NTN

Sat. August 26th to Fri. September 1st 2006 NTN – PROVIDING INFORMATION YOU NEED Bel Fund Providing a way out for the Unemployed Sat. August 26th, 11:30 a.m. Hon. Marcus Garvey – his life &works - Sun. August 27th , 11:30 a.m. La Woz Seans - Mon. Aug. Prime Minister Kenny Anthony with Fortuna Belrose (left) 28th 8:00 p.m. An Information Booth and Jennifer Gaston ( right) of Cricket World Cup St. Lucia Government’s Commitment to the Manufacturing Sector - Tues. Aug. 29th, 7:30 p.m. Constitutional Reform - Wed. Aug. 30th , 7:30 p.m. 2nd Brian Bernard Memorial Lecture – Thurs. Aug. 31st , 8:30 p.m. Fanm Pa Fanmi Nonm – Fri. Sept. 1st , 9:00 p.m. Remember to tune in for: GIS News Breaks and Kweyol News daily from 6:30 p.m. Issues & Answers/Mondays at 8:00pm: Interview/Tuesdays at 6:15pm The Cricket World Cup mascot poses with Ernest Hilaire CEO of CWCSL(left) and some Vieux Fort residents (right) Konsit Kweyol/Tuesdays at 8:00pm (Kweyol Discussion): Your Right to Know/ Sports Minister Applauds Saint Lucian Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. (Min. of Ed. Prog). Take 2/Fridays at 6:15pm Secondary School Athletes (Week in Review) Minister responsible for Educa- tion for the athletes when he addressed and elated to be at the national stadi- Weflechi/Fridays at 6:40pm tion, Human Resource Develop- them during an appreciation award um for the entire day of the track and - (Week in Review—Kweyol) ment, Youth and Sports, Hon Ma- held at the Prime Minister’s official field championship, and I enjoyed rio Michel has saluted members of residence last Wednesday. myself thoroughly.” For the complete programme guide, Saint Lucia’s team that finished “ We are here tonight to toast you, to The Minister urged the students log on to our website at www.stlucia. joint champions with Grenada celebrate you and to say to you thank who will be available for next year’s gov.lc and then click on the NTN icon. in the recent Windward Islands you for the effort that you put in to tournament scheduled for Dominica Schools games held here. bring pride and joy to Saint Lucia. I to start training and focus on win- The Minister was full of admira- was honoured and happy and pleased ning the championship on their own. www.stlucia .gov.lc

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