The People’s Paper Issue 02 | 28 April, 2018 OUR www.govt.lc Bi-monthly Progress Report from the Government of Saint Lucia

Time to Modernize Physical Planning

Meet our New President!

SPORTS Lowering Unemployment Excellence! Government unveils strategic plan for 02 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc

CONTENTS At a glance...

Saint Lucia signs for implementation of anti-corruption convention DIASPORA Saint Lucia recently signed on to the Organization of Ameri- can States (OAS) Mechanism for Follow-Up on the Imple- mentation of the Inter-American Convention against Corrup- Plans for Sports tion (MESICIC). Ambassador Anton Edmunds, Permanent 4 Representative to the OAS, signed on behalf of the Govern- ment of Saint Lucia.

The MESICIC is an inter-governmental body established within the framework of the OAS focused on transparency, accountability and good governance. Gros Islet in the spotlight 6-7 DIASPORA Windrush St. Lucians Urged to Contact Mission

Saint Lucia’s High Commissioner to the , Mr. Guy Mayers is calling on all Saint Lucians affected or who may have family members or friends who fall into the Commonwealth Highlights Windrush Generation category to contact the Office of the 8 Saint Lucia High Commission for assistance. Enquires should be made to: Saint Lucia High Commission in at +(44) 207 370-7123 or Email: [email protected]

Combatting unemployment with NAPS 9 Invest Saint Lucia Awarded for Pearl of the Caribbean INVESTMENT Hats off to Invest Saint Lucia on receiving the Best Investment Award for Latin America and the Caribbean. The announce- ment was made at the recent Annual Investment Awards on Busy year ahead for the margins of the renowned Annual Investment Meeting Physical Planning (AIM) held in Dubai from 9th to 11th April 2018, an initiative 10-12 of the UAE Ministry of Economy of the United Arab Emirates. Invest Saint Lucia was initially shortlisted after investment experts from all over the world gathered information on the most interesting worldwide investment projects contracted or commissioned during 2017. Consequently, The Pearl of the Caribbean was regarded as an exemplary project based on Get to know assessment criteria. Senate President 14 FINANCE IMF Economists visit Ministry of Finance

The International Monetary Fund this week conducted an How much do you IMF Article IV Consultation at the Ministry of Finance which included Minister with responsibility for Finance Hon. Dr know about Saint Lucia? 19 Ubaldus Raymond and Director of Finance Ms.Cointha Thomas. During an Article IV consultation, an IMF team of economists visits a country to assess economic and financial policies with Government & Central Bank officials. The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 03

Levern Spencer on Top of the World

evern Spencer has done it again. The renowned Saint Lucian Of her missed opportunity to win a gold medal at last year’s Olympics: “I athlete best known for her high jumping prowess has once again may not be the one to win the elusive Olympic medal, but my hope is that L put her best foot forward, and come out on top of her game. what I have done will inspire some other young Saint Lucian to go out there and bring us the medal. I know with the right attitude it can be At a special Home Coming Ceremony held in her honour on April 19, 2018 done.” at the Hewanorra International Airport, Spencer received a much deserved Hero’s Welcome. Speaking at the event the athlete made it In closing, Spencer thanked the coaches, officials and other athletes who known that the competition was her first outdoor event for the year, were with her in . She also expressed gratitude to supporters in which was something that made her victory even sweeter. She described Saint Lucia, and the organizations and institutions that helped her along her gold medal as “obviously the most prestigious the way including successive island governments, the Saint Lucia Olympic of the many I have won,” and in that regard, “it will always be special to Committee Inc., the Saint Lucia Athletic Association, her main sponsor me.” Flow, 1st National Bank, FICS, and SMJ Beverages. In her words, “It’s been a long hard road that I would not have been able to walk if you had not Prestige was not the only thing setting the medal apart for Levern. There been there giving me the support.” was also the glaring reality of just how long a Commonwealth gold had eluded Saint Lucian athletes – since 1962 to be exact!

“It finally happened last week,” Spencer told the audience of well-wishers who had gathered at the island’s southern airport. “I trust that it was as “The people of Saint Lucia are so proud of Levern. This has deep proud of a moment for Saint Lucians as it was for me.” meaning for us because we have watched her grow up before In her thank you speech, Spencer said putting Saint Lucia “on top of the our eyes. Levern was already a Saint Lucia Legend and now world” had been something she’d sought to do throughout the duration Levern Spencer has given our country even more reason to of her professional career. It was important for her to prove through her celebrate. Words cannot express how proud we are of this own efforts that despite the island’s relatively small size and limited population, anything was possible. daughter of Saint Lucia! Congratulations Levern! We love you and you have once again done us proud. “We truly can soar to great heights,” she said. “It is therefore hoped that our younger sportsmen and women will use this as motivation as they try Congratulations Saint Lucia!” to enter the many doors I have unlocked around the sporting world.” ---Prime Minister Honourable

04 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc

National Sports Infrastructure Development Strategy and Programme

b. Identify the venues and facilities throughout the nation which meet requirements for upgrading in the next 3-4 years c. Identify the venues and facilities that are critical for the National Sports Associations, the Olympic Committee, national teams and youth develop- ment d. Identify a master plan to develop several upgraded venues per constitu- ency e. Identify or recommend new venues that will benefit youth, after school programmes, and national wellness and community social programmes f. Identify or recommend venues and facilities that will benefit the nation in the industry of sports tourism – capable of hosting international events and teams g. Identify new-build projects that will support national sports associations that currently do not exist or should be expanded to multiple venues for the around the country (i.e. swimming pools and athletics tracks).

Phase 2: The focus in this phase is on works to commence in April 2018 for an additional 15 months period with several projects to be designed and he Allen Chastanet-led administration is clear in its recognition, constructed by February to June 2019. This includes developing two commitment, focus and understanding that sport is a critical categories to start projects in 2018 as follows: T vehicle for building the fabric of our nation. It is the policy direction of this government that sports must be utilized in a more strategic a. “SHOVEL READY PROJECTS” and structured manner, hence the reversal of an apparent lack of cohesion b. “STUDY READY PROJECTS” in sporting infrastructure. The aim of this administration is the moderniza- tion of sports in: The Shovel Ready projects are defined as existing venues that merit imme- diate consideration for upgrade as part of the “national interest” as well as 1. Meaning, purpose and organization to serve as model venues for the rest of the country in several categories. 2. Building leadership and programming capacity at all levels at school, community and nationally The Study Ready projects are defined as existing venues or proposed 3. Sporting venue conditions and facilitation new-build venues that merit immediate and further study by the team to 4. Sponsorship and resources develop solutions and options for the Government of Saint Lucia to consider in the very near future but after more due diligence. Page 40 of the ‘Principles of Commitment to the People of St. Lucia’, this government’s manifesto, emphasises “the role of sports in developing healthy lifestyles and creating opportunities for rewarding careers, fostering SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE CATEGORIES: national pride as well as creating employment and wealth”. The master plan of the national sports programming and development It is to this end that the sporting arm of government is fashioning a strategic strategy will categorize sporting facilities as follows: approach to creating and sustaining a sports industry and culture which is being developed in two phases. • National/International Venues: For example, George Odlum Stadium, Daren Sammy Ground and others to be developed for major As a youth-centric government, this administration remains determined championship training and events. These venues will also attract sports and resolute in the quest to deliver the best in sports development to the tourism opportunities. A potential National Sports Park capable of hosting youth of this nation. The chief objective in this regard is providing the youth most major sports in the country is under serious consideration in the Cul and the people of this country with sports facilities and programmes for de Sac area. their growth, development and health. • Sports Hubs (Large): Plans are underway for Dennery, Vigie, Soufriere, Phase 1: This pertains to service and deliverables scheduled for and Mindoo Philip/Marchand, - and other venues that hold more than one completed in April 2018, which are designed with the purpose, goal and major sport to be upgraded in order to host training sessions and competi- objective to identify and develop the outline for a National Sports Strategy tions without maintenance and weather issues. geared to categorizing and assessing existing sports venues for upgrade as well as proposed new sports venues for the nation. • Sports Hubs (Medium): Upgrades in this area will target Micoud North, Gros islet, Vieux Fort, Anse La Raye, Canaries, Marigot, Choiseul and other This includes developing a Master Plan and National Sports Strategy with similar venues that hold one (or shared) significant sport facility supported the goals and objectives as follows: by other smaller infrastructure elements. a. Identify and assess the conditions of the main sports and recreation • Community Clubs: For example, Micoud South, Babonneau, La Clery, venues maintained by the Department of Sports Jacmel, Laborie, Agaard, Fond Assau, Bexon – and other similar venues – The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 05

where a mixture of sports are facilitated to meet community needs for fitness, international competitions including but not limited to: recreation sports training and smaller competitions and community meeting pavilions -Carifta Games and playgrounds. - -CAX Games (California Extreme) • National Sports Academy: The government is currently working diligently to open -World championships up by September 2018 a centre for excellence in Sport that will be named the Saint -World Cups Lucia National Sports Academy – and located on the existing campus of the Gros Islet - Secondary School. This secondary school will serve as the educational institution of choice for the country’s top student athletes currently representing, or whom are anticipated to represent the country on U17 national teams or as individuals in SBDC Paving the Way for Small Business

he Small Business Development Center (SBDC), more widely known as the Small Awards. For a number of years, their clients have captured the Enterprise Development Unit (SEDU), was officially launched as part of the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, much due to the TDepartment of Commerce in 2014. The focus of the unit is to develop entrepre- support of the unit. neurial culture in Saint Lucia, and assist micro and small business hopefuls in realizing their greatest dreams. The entity targets persons wishing to set up a business, or those who may already have a business, and are looking to improve and grow. From the account of Director of the Small Business Development Center, Barabara Innocent Charles, “We are here to help businesses get started, and help those who are already started to flourish.” Get the Right Support With a target group of school leavers, women, unemployed persons and just about anyone who has a business idea, or a business in existence, staff at SBDC are kept to Grow Your Business busy on a daily basis offering guidance and solutions to problems their clients encounter. One of their biggest challenges is staying ahead of the game as policies change on the global scene, and finding new ways to prepare for the relatively unknown. Among the greatest lessons to be learnt by those aspiring to own a business, according to SBDC’s Director, is the necessity of doing proper preliminary research. In other words, one person’s success in a particular aspect does not equate to that of every other person chasing the same dream. In order to properly embark on a business venture, Charles says it is important to understand the conditions, financing require- ments, necessary skills, staff, and other critical aspects. “Sometimes we figure we can just start and everything will just flow from there,” she said. “It does not always work out that way.” While the Small Business Development Unit has not completely done away with the name SEDU (Small Enterprise Development Unit), the Director noted changes in their concept, as adopted based on other successful initiatives by the Organization of American States (OAS), and the University of Texas in San Antonio. As a result, they now What services does the SBDC offer? offer a fresh approach to providing services to the small business sector working closely The mandate of the Small Business Development with the private sector and academia. Considering the limited resources of the island, the SBDC emphasizes the need Center is to assist micro and small enterprises. There for agencies to work together on implementation, each feeding off the other, under- are requirements for acceptance – contact the SBDC for standing and harnessing individual strengths for the sake of collaboration. In this light, more information. If clients are not eligible to receive the SBDC is seen as a hub, with 13 partners on board including academia; Sir Arthur services from the SBDC, they are referred to another Lewis, University of the , Monroe College, speciality agencies like the Saint unit, the Commerce and Industry Department, which Lucia Bureau of Standards, the department of environmental health, Trade Export handles medium to large businesses. Promotion Agency, National Competitiveness and Productivity Council, National Research and Development Foundation (NRDF), financial institutions such as Belfund, How do I get finance? and the Saint Lucia Development Bank. The mandate of the SBDC is not to provide finance but These and other agencies play a pivotal role in the SBDC’s success. Clients are redirected through various avenues according to their needs. The entire process means to develop and build individuals so they become more that clients are transitioned from the point of knowing little to nothing about business to attractive to financial institutions. Business develop- being business savvy. ment officers help clients understand how to manage “We do the assessment – what is it that you need to take you to the next level,” their finances so they’re more disciplined, self reliant, Charles said. “We have programs just for that. We have a team of dedicated, motivated and creative. In addition to access to finance, other business development officers and administrative staff, and the things they do… because services offered to legal micro and small existing and of that drive to see the sector move forward, to see Saint Lucia move forward, we’ve had potential businesses include advocacy, entrepreneurial some very good stories to tell.” development, and market and product development. As far as successes go, clients from the SBDC have for at least the past three years made headlines at the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Saint Lucia Business 06 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc Constituency in Focus GROS ISLET ctivity in the community of Gros Islet has been ata peak with the aim of ensuring the community meets A the needs of residents. As a large community there has been a focus by Constituency MP Honourable Lenard “Spider” Montoute on several different areas including infrastructure and the development of the youth. Following are some of the highlights of projects in the constituency:

ICT centres

Sports

1) Renovation of the Gros Islet Field Changing room Speaking to boys on the block 2) Improvements to the Gros Islet court 3) Sponsorship of the Annual Gros Islet Infrastructure Football League Competition (Spider Cup) Spider Cup 1) 1st Phase of Old Military Road Resurfacing and Drainage project 4) Sponsorship of the Annual Gros Islet completed Cricket Competition 2) Drainage and Road widening on sections of the La Retraite back road 3) Widening of the Vieux Secrieux junction to make it safer for motorists Education and pedestrians navigating this intersection 4) Completion of a concrete road in Degazon, Grand Riviere 1) Provision of Laptops to over 10 top performing students from Gros 5) Completion of a concrete road in East Winds Islet 6) Over 12 bus stops established throughout Gros Islet to help improve 2) Laptop donation and other supplies to Ms. Qiana Joseph who is the the flow of traffic first female Saint Lucian to make the West Indies Women's team 7) Completion of drainage projects along Corinth main road 3) Annual donation of School bags and notebooks to every school child 8) Completion of sidewalk in Corinth to improve pedestrian safety in Gros Islet 9) Completion of sidewalk in Grand Riviere to improve pedestrian safety 4) Reading Month activities for schools throughout Gros Islet 10) Drainage and Road Resurfacing in Assou Canal 11) Gros Islet Human Resource Development Centre- Almost completed

Bus stop

Donations to schools La Retraite Vieux Serieux Other Projects Information Technology 1) Annual Elderly Christmas Lunch party 1) La Borne ICT Centre completed 2) Annual Children’s Christmas Party 2) Lafeuille ICT Centre in Progress 3) Monthly Hamper distribution to Less Fortunate 3) Desrammeaux ICT Centre in Progress 4) Bringing Educational, Training and Employment opportunities to the 4) Riviere Mitant ICT Centre in Progress "Boys of the Block" The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 07

Gros Islet Town Council Remains on the Ball

Artist Rendering of Gros Islet Waterfront

ames Edwin has worked as a general contractor for the past 35 years. In 2016, his career path took a completely new direction when he was appointed Mayor of the Gros Islet Town Council. After being selected for the position in August that year, nine other counsellors who would be part of the team Jheading the northern council were appointed through the Ministry of Local Government. They all had a mammoth task before them, and the incoming mayor was not the least bit apprehensive.

In fact, he’d taken up several leadership roles which is expected to generate economic activity With proposed governmental arrange- before, particularly with the management of his through tourism in the constituency. The project is ments for town and village councils, restrictive two businesses, El-Wins Construction, and Bayside to the tune of EC$265,000, and has commenced budgets will soon be a thing of the past! Villas in Gros Islet. He loved the constituency, and with the help of the Parliamentary Representative, knew what the role would require – someone who and the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association could lead a team expected to produce tangible (SLHTA) Tourism Enhancement Fund. The project results, and fast. He hit the ground running, with will be completed in October, 2018. plans to improve service delivery within the The Council has thus far hosted a With the help of Parliamentary district. Right off the bat he and his team were able number of cultural activities, including annual Representative Lenard Mont- to identify shortfalls and areas that needed carnival and Jounen Kweyol festivities. There are oute, the Council was able to attention. also significant plans in the forecast including the secure funding for the construc- The Council holds responsibility for the redevelopment of the Gros Islet Waterfront, which upkeep and maintenance of a substantial constitu- will include the construction of a Boardwalk, tion of a public wash room and ency, with limited funding. With just a two year Promenade, the development of restaurants in the Interpretation Centre for the contract to help change things for the better for area, and upgrades to the beach. All of this is constituency. the Gros Islet constituency, an area spanning Cap expected to be done to generate more income for Estate to Choc bridge with roughly 30,000 people, the area, and to build the capacity of the Council. Edwin admits at times feeling discouraged. The Soon, the Council will see another one Council and all its affairs are mostly funded of their plans come to light – the relocation of through the generosity of corporate partners. street side vendors, in particular, coconut vendors Funding for repairs and other aspects is left up to selling their products near island highways. The Central Government, and Parliamentary Represen- relocation project which is currently underway is tative Lenard Montoute through the Constituency being funded by the Sandals Group and Royalton Development Fund. Hotel at a cost of approximately EC$15,000. Three months to the end of his stint, Vendors will from May 20, 2018 be located in a Mayor Edwin recognizes the brighter moments, designated area which will be fully equipped with and successes of an incredibly hardworking team. washroom facilities. With the help of Parliamentary Representative “We’re expecting we’ll have decency Lenard Montoute, the Council was able to secure along the highway once again, and we can control funding for the construction of a public wash room traffic and vending activity that takes place along and Interpretation Centre for the constituency. the strip,” Edwin said with a spark of hope. “It’s The latter will be used as an information hub, challenging, but we’re getting it done.” Mayor of Gros Islet - James Edwin 08 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc

Windrush, Trade and Brexit discussed at Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

everal issues for Commonwealth Nations came to the fore at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting S (CHOGM) in London from April 16th to 20th 2018. For Commonwealth nations in the Caribbean an issue which took center stage was the concern over the UK’s treatment of the Windrush Generation. Caricom Leaders, including Prime Minister Honourable Allen Chastanet, made this a top priority at the four day conference.

Also discussed were issues of trade and prosperity (in a post-Brex- it world); human rights, democracy, and good governance; small states, resilience and climate change; security, terrorism and common values; and the renewal of the Commonwealth, particu- larly through its young people. The Saint Lucia delegation attend- ed forums for business, civil society, women, and youth, and many cultural and ancillary events.

Prime Minister Honourable Allen Chastanet explained that issues affecting Small Island Developing States were also in focus.

“We reiterated our position with regard to the OECD and the protocols to access funds,” said PM Chastanet with regard to building resilience. “We pressed forward for there to be a more significant meeting in which we can follow up on getting this implemented as soon as possible because we are only weeks away from our next hurricane season. We are not pleased with the progress in this area so far because we seem to be only getting acknowledgements that there is a problem but we are not seeing any meaningful evidence.”

The Prime Minister said CHOGM was a platform to continue to voice the concerns of the region and there has been positive news with a coalition of , , the UK and France who have agreed to assist small island developing states. The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 0908

NAP to Help Combat Unemployment in the South

ombating unemployment remains a top priority for government, Thus far, the National Apprenticeship Programme has partnered with OJO and in this regard, The National Apprenticeship Programme Labs, and management of the NAP is currently in discussions with other C (NAP) is making steady strides to assist in changing the status private sector companies in the south for future collaboration. From all quo. Since inception, the programme with a mandate to curb unemploy- accounts, the response thus far to the initiative have been encouraging, ment has been making waves in the south of the island, registering over and the NAP hopes to place more applicants into various fields soon. 300 people from communities including Choiseul, Dennery, Micoud, Vieux Fort, Desruisseaux, and Laborie. The aim of the programme is to Through the Apprenticeship Programme, participants have the opportu- prepare young people to be incorporated into project and investment nity to get their foot in the door of the hospitality industry, while employ- plans of the government, which are soon to come to fruition. Through the ers in turn benefit from the opportunity to evaluate prospective employ- training programme, participants will be supported with a goal of increas- ees ‘risk free’. The programme is of particular benefit to school leavers, ing their level of value in the work force, as well as competitiveness in who are able to earn a decent wage while continuing to acquire new skills local and international markets. Hospitality, (specifically the areas of bar on the job which can then be used to enhance their qualifications for tending, housekeeping, and waitressing), as well as soft skills including future work endeavours. time management, decision making, public speaking, leadership, and other interpersonal skills needed to excel in the work space are the In other recent developments, the National Apprenticeship Programme primary focus. Office within the Office of the Prime Minister in Collaboration with TeleCarib Labs hosted an information and feedback session in the town of Vieux Fort on Monday 26th March 2018 at the Vieux Fort ICT Centre.

The TeleCarib Labs Hybrid Learning Programme is a disruptive higher education connected learning and student support model being consid- ered for deployment in five Saint Lucian constituencies.

Students from the Vieux Fort Post Secondary School, The Vieux Fort Comprehensive A’ Level and other ambitious young adults from the south of the island attended the session which was hosted by Jake Weissbourd on Innovation and Higher Education and providing support for life long learners. The NAP hopes to continue encouraging learning, and creating new and valued partnerships moving forward. 10 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc Physical Planning Depa to focus on Resilience, Building Codes and Digitization

he Department of Physical Planning provides strategic interven- tions, policy guidance and direction, professional and technical Development Control Authority advice and in some cases project management support as it T It’s Government’s intention to provide the most robust mechanism to pertains to sustainable administration and management of Lands in Saint support sustainable development through an effective and efficient modal- Lucia. ity. To this end, a policy shift will recognise the empowerment of the DCA as an independent Body Corporate, with the authority and control for all In order to effectively and efficiently carry out that mandate, one of the development within Saint Lucia resting with the Board of the DCA. In order main supporting pillars of this Department is an updated legislative frame- to effect this change, the following actions will be required: work that reflects modern practices. a) Legislative amendments to the Physical Planning and Development Act Honourable Herod Stanislas, Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisher- No. 29 (2001) with subsequent revision (2005); ies, Physical Planning, National Resources and Co-operatives, in a spirited and passionate presentation to the House of Assembly debate on the b) The establishment of governance and operational structures for the DCA Appropriations Bill laid out the plans of the department. to effectively carry out its mandate in accordance with the new legislative Following are some excerpts: changes;

Updating Legislation c) The physical relocation of the DCA away from the Department of Physical Planning to reinforce the need for independence; “Since coming in office, we have recognized that there are several pieces of outdated legislation and the absence of policies that inhibited and, in some d) A review of the current fee structure to ensure that the necessary cases, frustrated approval processes and the Government’s ability to fast financial resources are available for the effective operational functioning of track the administration’s development agenda. the DCA.

I have instructed my team to undertake a comprehensive review of the following pieces of legislation that would on one hand strengthen the regulatory framework to make it more relevant, and on the other hand, improve the procedures and processes where necessary, to enhance the ease of doing business.

The Legislative Review Agenda will include the following:

• Physical Planning And Development Act: Chapter 5.12; • OECS Building Code; • Land Acquisition Act: Chapter 5.04; • Land Surveyors’ Act: Chapter 5.07; • Land Registration Act: Chapter 5.01; • Crown Lands Act: Chapter 5.02; • Architects Registration Act No. 11 Of 2005. Land Use Classification: The empowerment of the Department of Physical Planning through revised legislation and resourcing, to ensure that priority These reviews will include, inter alia, identification, removal or updating of focus is given to the development of a policy framework for land use. outdated and conflicting provisions, and the introduction of new provisions Derived from this policy will be the establishment of a land use classifica- that may be required to meet all anticipated scenarios. tion scheme and land zoning plans for the country.

For example, the Fees Structure as it relates to Land Registration Act, is These policy guidelines will provide the DCA with the regulatory basis for outdated. The approved fee structure typically dates back to 1984, but the decision making and will serve to streamline and simplify specific applica- cost of operations to date far exceed the current fees being charged. tion requirements such as Environmental Impact Assessments.

If we take a look at the Land Administration programme, the total revenue Electronic Applications: The creation of an online electronic application approved for the last financial year 2017-2018 was $1,250,255, as platform for the integration of all required stakeholders and effective compared to the cost of operations in that same period of $3,652,581. management of the development application process. The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 1108 rtment Queen’s Chain Policy

Hon. Herod Stanislas

Land Policy With regards to the Queen’s Chain, there is currently no existing legal or A land policy is typically a relationship between people and access to regulatory framework for the management of this part of real estate. As land. But because we have a limited resource, it is of paramount impor- the department seeks to undertake a critical review of this land acreage, a tance, that we manage that resource in the most conducive manner, number of questions will have to be answered particularly in light of the keeping in mind all the economic, political, social and environmental ever-growing tourism, housing, fisheries sectors, etc. issues that comes with it;

We have engaged the World Bank to provide technical assistance to Quarry Policy move the process forward. Cabinet will be briefed on the next steps. Government is committed to ensuring at the very earliest, an approved Revised National Land Policy. Land Use Plan Once the Revised National Land Policy has been adopted, we need to move speedily on the development of a National Land Use Plan. Land-use planning seeks to regulate the use of land in the most effective and efficient manner to ensure the greatest benefits are achieved. The issue here is that of regularizing the proper management of quarry developments. The development of a policy will seek to address stream- It’s the Government’s intention to undertake a comprehensive assess- lining the procedure by which stakeholders are guided in undertaking this ment of our lands, to determine the best or alternative uses to maximize type of activity. Additionally, the policy will seek to ensure the balance is both the economic and social benefits to its people. Land Use planning maintained between economic development benefits generated by the ensures future uses of this limited resource. quarrying sector and that of the environmental and social effects; The exploitation of this resource contributes immensely to the island’s Building Code development and prosperity and therefore must be managed accordingly.

In acknowledgement of the value of a resilience built sector at all levels of A review of the existing building code is being undertaken by the OECS the economy, to every individual, and community, the government has Commission and entails a review of models for the administration of been seeking to develop and support, the application of a building code development control systems across the region and the globe, and an that is relevant to the island and adequately mitigates risks to natural assessment of their adequacy for implementing national building codes hazards, and results in design and construction that is safe and economical within OECS Member States. All the major stakeholders in the construction to users and owners alike. and associate sectors are being engaged in this endeavour. 12 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc

[Physical Planning Department Continued] MAJOR PROJECT INITIATIVES

Digitization of the Land Registry

A department of such critical importance to Land Administration and Management that affects every aspect of commerce and industry including the very lives of every St. Lucian and the project to digitize its operations to achieve greater efficiency cannot be allowed to fail.

This is so important, particularly with the loss we suffered at the Folk Research Centre, should this, God forbid, take place at the Land Registry, this would be devastating. To this end, Government will be identifying all available resources to bring this project to a completion.

The benefits to be derived from this digitization process will include but not limited to:

• Quicker turnaround time in the processing of documents • Reduction in waiting times at the Land Registry • Online service application processes • Safe guard of the Land documents • Potential revenue increase

Modernization of Saint Lucia Geodetic Network

The main objective of this project is to modernize the existing Geodetic Network system that allow for the streamlining and modernization of related survey, land development and land administrative processes. Additionally, this project would facilitate and strengthen our Geographic Information System (GIS) initiative.

The Government of Saint Lucia would now be able to share information on GPS positions, heights and other fields such as tidal movement, climate change, flood mapping, earth move- ment etc. This system would also provide a more stable frame- work for precise surveying data to users of the network.

Another important component is Geospatial data. This is a critical asset in effective decision making; after occurrences such as Hurricane Tomas and a number of other (climate change induced) adverse events. The Government of Saint Lucia recog- nized that the resilience of our fragile economy is dependent upon the efficient coordination, management and ease of access to the right data and information. The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 1308

One year later, critical crime prevention measures continue to be the focus of the RSLPF and the government of Saint Lucia. As part of these efforts, 25 school security officers participated in security Newly Trained O cers training sessions to better equip them with the skills and knowl- edge to maintain security and enforce regulations at schools around the island. The first batch of school security officers were to Improve School Security awarded for their participation in the two-week basic security training programme, at a ceremony at the Royal St. Lucia Police Force Academy. It is expected that a second batch of officers will be inducted into the training programme in the coming months. brand new school term opened this April, bringing with it fresh faces to newly revamped educational facilities. Coming out of continuous assessment mode, A expectations are high, and the pressure is on, not only for the students and teachers, but for security officers stationed at schools around the island.

In 2017 the island marked the highest murder rate ever recorded. In that space of sky rocketing violence, not even the island’s young people were immune, and several injuries and even fatalities were reported by the island’s police.

Critical crime prevention measures continue to be the focus of the RSLPF and the government of Saint Scholarship Opportunities Lucia. As part of these efforts, 25 school security Scholarships for Studies Offered by the Government of officers participated in security training sessions the Republic of The Government of the Republic of Cuba is offering scholar- to better equip them with the skills and knowledge ships to eligible Saint Lucian nationals to pursue studies at the Bachelor’s and Postgraduate level, tenable at universities in the to maintain security and enforce regulations at Republic of Cuba for the academic year commencing August, 2018. Areas of studies include medicine and dentistry. To be schools around the island. eligible for selection, applicants must be citizens of Saint Lucia, less than 25 years of age. More details available here: http://w- ww.govt.lc/media.govt.lc/www/Vacancies/Scholarship/cu- With national security as a primary focus, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) in ba-2018-2019.pdf collaboration with the government has undertaken several crime prevention initiatives specifically targeting schools. Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships at Ca’Fos- cari University of Venice, Italy Included in these efforts are dispute resolution measures in collaboration with the In order to strengthen its international community, Ca’ Foscari Ministry of Education, school officials, parents and students, and intensified searches University of Venice will award 100 tuition fee waivers and 90 within district schools. Government officials have also reaffirmed their commitment to one-time scholarships of € 5,000.00 to high-achieving interna- reducing crime on the island, and making schools safer. tional students enrolling in any Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes except for joint or double degree programmes in Collective efforts are being seen as crucial, particularly considering recent police the 2018/2019 academic year. searches in schools that have confirmed the seriousness of the problem. At several educational institutions, students have been found in possession of illegal drugs and The modality of the course is onsite and the language of weapons. As part of intensive search efforts in 2017, quantities of crack cocaine and instruction is English. The tuition fee waivers will provide up to marijuana were found, as well as weapons and otherwise banned items including 100 international outstanding students with exemption from knives, cutlasses, screw drivers, scissors, and lighters. Police officers described the the payment of university tuition fees, and recipients will only state of affairs as alarming. pay the regional tax for the right to education (€ 184.00) and the duty stamp. Application deadline: April 30, 2018. More information available here: http://www.govt.lc/scholar- ships

OAS Scholarships The OAS Academic Scholarship Program (Regular Program), established in 1958, grants scholarships every year for the pursuit of Master’s Degrees, Doctoral Degrees and Graduate Research leading to a university degree. The OAS Special Caribbean Scholarships Program (SPECAF), established in 1983, grants scholarships for the last two years of undergraduate studies to citizens and residents of the English-speaking Caribbean OAS Member States, and . Both programs follow the OAS Manual of Procedures for the Scholarship and Training Program. Visit http://www.oas.org/en/scholarships/ for more details. 14 14 April 2018 www.govt.lc

Profile I have also held the post of Registrar General/Registrar of the High Court, and Deputy Registrar of the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal in Antigua Senate President and Barbuda. In the , I worked with a non-governmental organization MIRECS, providing legal assistance to battered immigrant wives. In Ghana, Jeannine Giraudy-Mc Intyre West Africa, I worked as a Legal Consultant. Love, duty and integrity are her guiding principles These assignments have been undertaken alongside my work as a profes- sional artist. I studied art in the USA and my work as portrait artist - particu- larly for the St. Lucia National Archives - is a very important part of my life.

What is the most challenging aspects of your job? At present, I am taking the opportunity to understand the task in its entirety. As I examine the functioning of our Parliament, I notice energy and resourc- es have been concentrated in some specific areas while others need attention. Though I do not believe in reinventing the wheel, I would like to see the proper functioning of all parts of Parliament. Some of the challenges I anticipate include the establishment of senatorial committees, funding for ongoing Training of Parliamentarians and Staff, the digitization of records and of course, improved facilities for parliament and the judiciary as befits our nation.

Who inspires you, and what are some watch words by which you live? Love, duty, integrity, fairness and compassion are some of my guiding princi- ples. Love is the basis of everything. Without it you are off to a poor start. Integrity and fairness are the measures by which one must engage with others. Without compassion, you cannot truly see people or understand their needs. This is also part of my philosophy as an professional artist. My father, the late Henry Giraudy, definitely inspired me to enter the legal profession, and he helped influence my career path. He was a superb advocate - supremely confident and decisive - and a formidable politician. He instilled in me the ethos of duty to nation; the idea that we haveto contribute to the advancement of others. In a sense, this is a large part of my motivation in accepting to be President of the Senate. My Mother, Monica Giraudy, was also a great influence in my life. She was a successful business woman and her work ethic was exemplary. Her motto was: St. Lucia is not too small, nor the world too large; meaning that wherev- er you are, you must develop yourself, your character and your work. eannine Giraudy-Mc Intyre was appointed to the Senate on March 8, J 2018 and elected President of the Senate 12 days later. In an exclusive In recent times, my sister Mara's stoic fortitude has been quite an inspira- interview with Our Saint Lucia, she recounts the very strategic moves tion, particularly after the untimely death of her husband, David Thompson, that led her along what can best be described as a very challenging and the late Prime Minister of . Of course, other world leaders have rewarding career path. inspired me, such as Nelson Mandela with his sense of fairness and justice. How has your tenure been thus far? Overall, I have learned that while adaptability is very valuable, stubborn tenacity can also get you through many a crisis. Thus far, the experience has been both challenging and exhilarating. The Appropriations Bill, more commonly referred to as the Budget debate was tabled for the first Sitting of the Senate over which I presided. In terms of overall advancement, where do see Saint Lucia in 5 to 10 years? The Budget debate is one of the more energetic, interesting but intense Parliamentary sessions, with contentious issues and opposing members I am confident St. Lucia will be in good and capable hands, with leadership rising frequently on points of order. This requires immediate often unpopu- that is responsible, compassionate and visionary. I expect a more advanced lar rulings, which are the most challenging. St. Lucia, especially in terms of infrastructure. There should be strong emphasis on agriculture, social services, education, health and justice. I However, I enjoyed the debate as it offers a comprehensive look at the expect the improvement of parliamentary and judicial facilities because present-day state of the country and informs the public of future plans. these support our democracy. I am particularly interested in the advance- ment of mediation as a primary method of resolving conflict. Not only is it What led you to this particular career path? faster and more affordable but it offers a win-win rather than a win-lose outcome. My journey in the field of law has been varied. I have worked in public and private practice in several jurisdictions, including St. Lucia. In Barbados, I Our major role as legislators is to promote the welfare of St Lucians. I expect worked with the international accounting firm of Ernst & Young as Manager a robust legislative agenda that will include the removal of outdated laws of Corporate Services, and as Manager, International Private Wealth, and and provide for legal frameworks that express our needs, enhance our thereafter as Manager, Legal Advisory Services, which included promoting development and bring meaningful improvements to our lives. I am very Barbados as a premiere offshore jurisdiction in Canada and the United optimistic about the future of our St. Lucia. States. The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 1508

Up the Line Concrete Upgrades Walkway & Drain continue in Micoud North

Wenn Road, Road Construction Mon Repos at Lombard

Construction of Footpath Concrete Road & Drain in La Pointe in Praslin 16 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc

MEET THE EXECUTIVE Town Hall Engages Community

esidents of Monchy and environs were on Wednesday April 18, 2018 invited to a special Town Hall Meeting held at the Monchy Multi-Purpose Center. On the occasion, attendees had the opportunity to meet the Executive of the Royal St. Lucia R Police Force, and discuss policing concerns with the Commissioner. Parliamentary representative for Gros Islet, and Minister for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, Lenard Montoute, also made an appearance at the event, which also featured a spirited musical performance by the Monchy After School Programme. The Community Policing Branch remains enthused about this and other upcoming Town Hall sessions, particularly because of the much needed feedback coming from the public at those initiatives. The date of the next community Town Hall Meeting is expected to be announced soon. The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 1708

Forensics Lab Team Remains Committed

aint Lucia’s premiere forensics lab in Tapion was opened on December 21st, 2009 with the mission of providing Sscientific support by performing forensic analysis of evidence and increasing the productivity of the Justice System through the application of scientific methods.

Then Minister for Justice, Nicholas Frederick heralded the opening of the facility, which was the first in the OECS to provide such state of the art forensic analysis. The general purpose of the Forensics Lab was, and continues to be added efficiency to the process of solving crime on the island. Given the increasing crime rate, the police force can use all the help they can get in the fight against crime, and reducing the number of unsolved cases. At its conception, the lab promised to address the shortcomings as relates to evidence and eyewit- ness statements.

The Forensics Lab’s original services included DNA testing, opened once again in February analysis of controlled substances and trace evidence analysis. 2017, in a phased approach. Prior to its opening, evidence for potential DNA analysis Although the lab’s DNA unit is collected at local crime scenes would have to be sent overseas. currently offline, the reintroduc- DNA testing in England came at a high cost. Not only would the tion of its services came at a lab help to reduce cost, but also speed up the analysis process, critical juncture, given the gross consequently expediting the rate at which crimes are solved. number of crimes which went The lab was seen as the perfect opportunity to help other unsolved. The Staff at the lab are OECS states fight their crime issue, and would also contribute properly trained to analyze to a safer St. Lucia. crime scene evidence. The collected DNA evidence must then be sent overseas for Fernanda Henry further analysis. Director of Forensic Lab

As of December 2017, Doubts on the efficiency and capabilities of the lab have been dispelled with evidence of the number of crimes that it has helped to solve since its reopening. Rape cases have received fifteen sexual assault special attention with the use of DNA testing technology. As of December 2017, fifteen sexual assault cases had been solved thanks to the work of the staff at the forensics lab. The cases had been solved successful analysis of evidence in rape cases has led to the arrests of multiple suspects in various cases. Most notewor- thy is that of Laborie resident Saadia Byron. Minister for thanks to the work Justice Hon Hermangild Francis lauded the work of the foren- sics lab whose work facilitated the arrest of the main suspect of the staff at the in this murder/rape case.

Moving forward, one of the major goals of the forensics lab is forensics lab. public sensitization. According to Lab Director Fernanda Henry, many St. Lucians are unaware of what the lab does, and how it helps the criminal investigation and judicial process. After being reopened for over a year, the lab is still not functioning at its ultimate potential, but the Director and The lab was set to be fully operational from January 2011. In Staff remain hopeful and determined. The team at the foren- May 2015, structural and other issues within the facility led to sic lab will continue to work with the available resources, to the closure of the lab. The closure which was set to only last develop its human resource capacity and make solving crimes one week instead lasted months, and the forensic lab was more efficient and common. 18 28 April 2018 www.govt.lc

MINISTERS on the Move

Minister Sarah Flood-Beaubrun at Farming Project site

A tour of projects Islandwide by Minister King

Farmer in Monchy Makes a sale to Minister Spider Montoute

Minister Fedee delivers hamper to an elderly constituent

Minister Gale Rigobert with students of Blanchard Combined School The People’s Paper www.govt.lc 1908

Connect With Us SAINT LUCIA WE LOVE

Office of the Prime Minister Did you know… -www.facebook.com/opmsaintlucia -www.instagram.com/opmsaintlucia Undeniably, our history is what makes us who we are. Coming from a land as rich in history and heritage as ours, Allen Chastanet we would truly be doing ourselves a disservice not appreci- -www.facebook.com/allenmchastanet ating and finding out all that we can about the land that -www.twitter.com/allenmchastanet gave us birth. Read on for some fun facts you may not have known about our island in the sun! Lenard "Spider" Montoute -www.facebook.com/lenardspidermontoute • Around 77 percent of Saint Lucia is covered in forest, Ezechiel Joseph more than neighbouring Barbados (19 percent), and -www.facebook.com/ezechieljoseph758 Antigua (22 percent). More than enough reason to set out on an outdoor adventure this weekend! Sarah Flood Beaubrun -www.facebook.com/sarahfloodbeaubrun758 • Located in the southern community of Soufriere, the Sulphur Springs is not only a major tourist attraction in Guy Joseph Saint Lucia, but the world’s only drive in volcano. -www.facebook.com/guyejoseph • Notable Saint Lucian figures who have had www.facebook.com/stephensonking busts or statues erected in their honour include Mary Isaac -www.facebook.com/maryisaacslu Sir , Sir Arthur Lewis, Jean Fortuna Belrose Baptiste Bideau, Sir -www.facebook.com/fortunabelrose758 Derek Walcott, and Sir . Dominic Fedee -www.facebook.com/dominic.fedee • Emerging as winners of the National Flower Herod Stanislas Competition in 1985, the -www.facebook.com/herodstanislas Rose and the Marguerite are the national flowers Bradly Felix of Saint Lucia, and are -www.facebook.com/bradlyfelix758 associated with the festivals La Marguerite Dr Gale T C Rigobert and La Rose. -www.facebook.com/drgalerigobert758 • Jean Baptiste Bideau, the historical figure credited for Edmund Estephane saving the life of Venezuelan revolutionary Simon Bolivier -www.facebook.com/edmundestephane758 was born in Saint Lucia in 1780. Nearly all the writings about his life speak about his roots in the Helen of the West. In other words, past and present, there are heroes in our midst!