No. 5 • Saturday, OCTOBER 31, 2009 • www.stlucia.gov.lc

TO BOOST SECURITY AT BORDELAIS

he country’s Prime Minister has promised that recommen- Tdations coming out of the re- cently concluded Commission of In- ecurity at the island’s primary prison tional Facility. There is hardly anything quiry report will be put into effect. – Bordelais Correctional Facility – will if anything at all that can be smuggled The Prime Minister issued this be pumped up with the addition of sur- in with jarries. When they have served assurance was issued he tabled the S veillance cameras throughout the compound their time and leave the facility their contents of the report compiled re- and the introduction of jelly shoes or what is shoes will be given back to them.” cently by a Commission of Enquiry. known as “jarries’ to the inmates’ uniform. He added that surveillance cameras He referred to the Rochamel That’s the word from Minister responsi- are currently being installed at the jail matter and the management of the ble for Home Affairs and National Security and will record the comings and goings National Conservation Authority Senator Guy Mayers who says that security of inmates, staff and visitors. A metal (NCA) along with the Road Devel- at the maximum security facility is too lax. detector will also be installed at the fa- opment Programmes one and two. Complaining about the number of contra- cility to monitor anyone going into the “The management of the Nation- band smuggled into the prison, the Minister prison. This he said would also help al Conservation Authority (NCA) says the number one concern is the illegal boost security at Bordelais. disclosed gross irregularities in the possession of mobile telephones by inmates. One of the main concerns expressed conduct of the affairs of that author- This he added is a “recurring problem” and by the National Security Minister was ity and that offences appear to have alludes to an even bigger problem of the that inmates at Bordelais were not being been committed with the expen- collaboration of the prison staff in helping rehabilitated and as he said, they just diture of public funds entrusted to to smuggle the devices into the jail. “sit in their cells”. The Minister said that that Authority. Another niggling problem at the com- work is now ongoing on a farm at the “In addition the contract for Prime Minister pound is the prisoners’ footwear. Sena- prison, on which inmates would work. $43,750,000.00 which was signed to Hon. Stephenson King tor Mayers says shoes – boots, expensive “We are now fencing the farm and meet the cost of the road develop- sneakers have often been the cause of prob- when this is done, the inmates will be ment projects 001 and 002 eventu- The Commissioners who con- lems such as fights, robbery and a means to able to go out there and work the farm. ally cost the government more than ducted the inquiry were Sir Fenton smuggle items including cell phones into It is a form of exercise and intellectual 100 percent above the contract price Ramsahoye Mustapha Ibrahim and the facility. stimulation and therefore an effective resulting in significant loss to the John Reginald Phelps Dumas. To cut the problem out at the source, he form of rehabilitation. Rehabilitation at government and people of Saint Lu- The Inquiry was conducted from said normal shoes would be outlawed at the Bordelais needs to be kicked into high gear.” Senator Mayers said. cia” the prime minister said. February through April, 2009. prison and jarries introduced. “So this will become the normal issue for the inmates. The new security measures at Borde- This will be part of their uniforms while they lais are expected to go into effect in the are incarcerated at the Bordelais Correc- new year

FCCA Conference Successfully Held In Motorist Pay Less - Page 4 Eye On The Constituencies - A Master Plan For St. Judes - - Page 2 pages 6 & 7 page 9 Page 2 Saturday October 31, 2009 Herman Heads Bordelais Again

ollowing a confirmation ment of the prison recently the publicly thank the officers who reduce the recidivism rate at date from the Public Ser- staff had expressed their commit- are dedicated to maintaining the prison.“It is better to have Fvice Commission, former ment to work with Herman in the law and order at the facility.” the prisoners working on the prison boss Hilary Herman will interest of the prison. The Minister also expressed farm than to have them locked take up duties as Director of the “In fact they indicated that optimism about an ongoing up in a cell for the entire day. island ‘s sole maximum security the Prison Officers Association project to further develop five My vision is that as part of the prison - Bordelais Correctional had met a few days before our acres of land which are cur- rehabilitation programme in- Facility - once again meeting and there was consen- rently being used as the prison mates will work on the farm, Home Affairs and National sus that all officers will work far m. develop a skill and be produc- Security Minister Senator Guy with Mr. Herman. I think that He said the development of tive enough to make the facility Mayers said after meeting with signals a new and good begin- the farm will assist with the re- self-sufficient,” Senator Mayers prison officers and the manage- ning at the prison, and I want to habilitation of the inmates and said. Hilary Herman Fcca Conference Successfully Held In Saint Lucia

he week-long much antici- pated 16th annual confer- Tence and trade show of the Florida Cruise Caribbean Asso- Projections are ciation (FCCA) came to a close in Saint Lucia last night. The premier networking and that this winter marketing platform for regional cruise business, the event was attended by hundreds of key in- season the dustry professionals and it is ex- pected that much will come out of it particularly for the cruise island will business on the island. Earlier, Minister for Tourism Senator had welcome a said that having such important people in the cruise industry all together in Saint Lucia would record-breaking be of immeasurable value to the island. 680,000 cruise He said it would provide these industry experts the opportunity to witness and experience first- hand the natural beauty of the is- passengers land complemented by the hospi- tality and generosity of its people.

CALLING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS – ST.LUCIA COLLEGE FAIR 2009

t. Lucian students will of the annual event is to help stu- be given a better oppor- dents and their parents have a Stunity to decide which better understanding of available university they would like to schools and what they have to of- study at following the annual fer so they can make better, more St. Lucia International College informed decisions. Fair later next week. The College Fair also seeks to The fair being staged by the provide interested St. Lucians Ministry of the Public Service with an opportunity to discover and Human Resource Devel- the diversity of higher educa- opment will be held on the tion and to provide regional and 2nd floor of the Blue Coral international institutions the op- Mall, Bridge Street, Castries portunity to diversify their stu- for two days only, November dent population by recruiting 4 – 5, from 9:00 a.m. t0 12:30 students from St. Lucia. Governor General Dame accepts a bouquet from an FCCA official p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. both days. For further information con- tact: the Training Division of the In the last two years Saint Lucia a record-breaking 680,000 cruise Close to 400 cruise liners are Several tertiary level institu- Ministry of the Public Service & has recorded significant increases passengers. And industry of- expected to dock in Saint Lucia tions from Canada, the United Human Resource Development, in cruise passenger arrivals with ficials say that the island’s host- this winter season and it is an- Kingdom, the United States 1st Floor, Sir Stanislaus James the island exceeding 600,000 pas- ing of the recent FCCA acts as a ticipated that the hosting of the and the Caribbean will be par- sengers for the first time in his- Building, The Waterfront, Cas- catalyst to cruise tourism playing FCCA conference will result in an ticipating in this year’s fair. tory, last year. tries or at Telephone Numbers a more prominent role in tourism even greater capacity and more One of the main objectives (758) 468-4189/4638. Projections are that this winter and to the overall economic de- frequent cruise calls to the island season the island will welcome velopment of the island. particularly during the off-season. Saturday October 31, 2009 Page 3

SAINT LUCIANS FLY JETBLUE

n October 15, award-win- ning JetBlue Airways be- JetBlue is rapidly Ogan serving Saint Lucia, boosting the island’s airlift from one of its main tourism markets. becoming a major player in JetBlue began serving Hewan- orra International Airport with the US airline industry and three weekly flights out of New York’s John F. Kennedy Interna- tional Airport on Sundays, Mon- has great plans for the days and Thursdays. Saint Lucia is one of 50 inter- Caribbean national destinations throughout north, south and central America benefiting from Jet Blue’s Service and according to Tourism Minis- ter Allen Chastanet, Saint Lucia is very excited to join the new JetBlue service from the largest market in the United States. He said JetBlue is rapidly be- coming a major player in the US airline industry and has great plans for the Caribbean. “We are happy to be one of the first desti- nations in the Eastern Caribbean to be served by JetBlue” he said. Jamaica and Barbados are the two other islands that will wel- come this new service later this year. Meanwhile, Director of the Saint Lucia Tourist Board Louis Lewis has also welcomed the seat Airbus A320 aircraft, offer- gural service, JetBlue is also offer- new flight coming out of what he ing travelers all of the amenities ing special US$129 fares between called “… an important source for which JetBlue has become New York City and St. Lucia. market which will provide the popular, including complimen- This means that St. Lucians living capacity to complement our mar- tary seatback television program- in New York can take advantage keting efforts.” ming, comfortable leather seats, of this deal to fly home from now The US tri-state area accounts the most legroom in coach of any until February 8, 2010. for more than 50% of Saint Lu- US airline, unlimited free snacks Blackout dates and other re- cia’s US arrivals. and what the airline claims is in- strictions apply. Log onto: http:// dustry-leading customer service. The airline operates its Saint www.jetblue.com for further in- Lucia service with spacious 150- To further celebrate the inau- formation.

Even While H1n1 Dies Down, Saint Lucians Told Beware Second Wave

aint Lucians are being day November 2, 2009, the Min- Influenza illness affected mostly setting. Employers and the self- A vaccine against H1N1 In- warned to keep alert and istry of Health and Wellness will the young as in school children, it employed, are urged to contact fluenza is currently available Sbeware the second wave suspend the operations of spe- is expected that the second spike either of these agencies for as- in limited quantities in indus- of the deadly H1N1 Influenza cialized Flu clinics around the will most likely target young sistance in securing the health trialized countries and may virus that is wreaking havoc island. adults and adults or the `working and viability of their operations.” soon become available here. age' population. NEMO said. However, it should be noted around the world. “However, everyone needs to In light of this, health authori- To date, St. Lucia has not re- that when this vaccine does According to health reports, remain on alert as there is ex- ties have cranked up their efforts corded any deaths from H1N1 become available in St. Lucia, the current rate of infection pected to be a second wave of in past weeks to better prepare Influenza and while some people priority will be given to `very in St. Lucia seems to be slow- H1N1 Influenza infection. This the business sector to deal with have been admitted to hospital high risk groups' such as ing down, indicating that the means that after an apparent lull the expected fall-out. with complications they have all clinical health care workers, island is nearing the end of a in cases, we are expecting to see “The Ministry of Health is well recovered completely. workers in the emergency first wave of the disease with a second sharp increase or spike placed to assist business places The public is again being re- services and other high risk the number of cases recorded in the number of persons coming with infection control procedures minded that although most peo- groups. at health care facilities reduc- down with flu like symptoms, in the workplace. The Ministry ple who acquire the disease have For further information call ing significantly “from 3 digits, within the next 2-6 months.” said of Agriculture is the authority only mild flu-like symptoms and the Ministry of Health at 468- to 2 digit numbers per week.” the NEMO Secretariat. on bio-security measures to be recover within one week, some 5300/09/18/17/02, 452-2301 or the As a result, the health au- NEMO adds that it is most like- taken on farms to prevent the patients may develop more se- Ministry of Agriculture at 468- thorities say that as of Mon- ly that as the first wave of H1N1 spread of H1N1 infection in this vere illness and a few may die. 5621/20/24, 450-3213, 454-6254. Page 4 Saturday October 31, 2009

otorists in St. Lu- of petroleum and petroleum Motorists Pay Less cia this week be- products in Saint Lucia to be Mgan paying a little changed on a monthly basis in less to fill up their gas tanks. keeping with the pass through As of October 26, gas is be- mechanism that was introduced ing sold on the island at $11.60 in September. per gallon down from $11.87 The price of these goods is a gallon a difference of 27 now set by market forces and cents, while the price of diesel not by the government as had has also gone down to $11.37 obtained. a gallon, down from $11.44 a The next scheduled price gallon. change is November 23rd at There has been no change in which time in keeping with the the price of LPG products (cook- national move from imperial to ing gas) and kerosene and the metric – the prices of gasoline price of these remain the same and diesel will be stated in liters. as last month. That new change will take effect Motorists can expect the price on November 2nd. Top Island Award ondé Nast Traveler, a US- ing the island as having more to based magazine with a offer than rest and relaxation. ” readership of more than C Thousands of readers partici- 820,000, announced that Saint Lu- pated in Condé Nast Traveler’s on- cia had been ranked number six line questionnaire, voting on cat- in the category of “Top Islands” egories of activities, atmosphere/ in this year’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards poll conducted ambience, beaches, friendliness, by that Magazine. lodging, restaurants and scenery. Up one spot from last year The Saint Lucia Tourist Board in the “Caribbean and Atlantic also acknowledged three on-island Island” category, Saint Lucia’s resorts - Ladera, Anse Chastanet many new developments, servic- and the Body Holiday by Le Sport— es, activities and amenities made which also received rankings from a strong impact on visitors. the Readers’ Choice Awards. Director of Tourism Louis Ladera was ranked number 5 Lewis sees this as an important out of the “Top 10 Caribbean Re- endorsement for the island. “This sorts”. This is the second year in a award from such a reputable and row that the resort has held onto respected agency reinforces the the fifth spot and prides itself on fact that Saint Lucia is highly re- its award-winning cuisine, luxuri- Gros Islet - a tourist hot spot garded as a leading destination ous spa services and unique design with a top class tourism product. that offers unobstructed views of The Saint Lucia Tourist Board the legendary Pitons. Anse Chas- Since 1988, the annual Condé zine’s readership in various cat- Complete award results are listed prides itself on being able to set tanet followed in sixth spot and Nast Traveler ‘Readers’ Choice egories, including cities, islands, in the November issue of Condé Saint Lucia apart from other Ca- The Body Holiday by Le Sport Awards’ poll has analyzed the airlines, cruise lines, hotels, spas, Nast Traveler and at www.cn- ribbean destinations by position- ranked 17th in this Category. travel preferences of the maga- resorts and car rental agencies. traveler.com

Saint Lucia And Oecs In Need Of Trained Diplomats WE STAND CORRECTED!!!

aint Lucia and other mem- ing of a framework workshop draw from the experiences of In our last issue (October 17, 2009), we erroneously re- bers of the Organization of to develop the OECS School of that school to guide the devel- ferred to renowned St. Lucian artist Dunstan St. Omer as SEastern Caribbean States Diplomacy she said in order to opmental stage of the proposed “Sir” Dunstan St. Omer. (OECS) are in need of trained command respect in spite of its institution. While the esteemed St. Omer has been awarded St. Lucia’s diplomats and the best way size, the OECS must recognize The Diplomatic Academy of highest honour – the St. Lucia Cross, this award does not to achieve this is to establish a the need for career diplomats, Spain is providing financial and come with the title Sir. Rather, he is the Honourable Dunstan school of diplomacy. So says trained in the language and art of technical support for the initiative. OECS Director General Dr. Len diplomacy. St. Omer. St. Hill added that the deep- Ishmael. Acting Permanent Secretary in ening collaboration between the It was our mistake and we sincerely apologize and hope he the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ishmael says the need for a OECS and Spain is well appreci- was not unduly inconvenienced. Judith St. Hill, speaking on behalf school of diplomacy to serve the of Foreign Affairs Minister Rufus ated. She said the Foreign Affairs The National Review would also like to take this opportu- region was pressing particularly Bousquet said the Diplomatic Minister views the School’s pro- nity to congratulate the Honourable Dunstan on his recent as the sub-region continues to Academy of Spain provides an gramme as the key to shaping the award. build links with other regions. exemplary model for the OECS. political and economic future of Speaking at the recent open- She encouraged participants to the region. Saturday October 31, 2009 Page 5

Bursting bamboo - an ole time boys pastime Cutting Wood Kwéyòl-La Vivan, Annou Wiboté!

itself is celebrated annually as Speaking with The National “Creole Heritage Month”. Review, FRC Executive Direc- This year was no different and tor Kentry Jn. Pierre admitted that in spite of the many chal- last Sunday families around the is- lenges and difficulties to put land got together and traveled the such a big event together, it all width and breadth of the island to went well. have a good time, cultural style. “We are confident that St Over the past two and a half Lucians were sensitized about decades, Jounen Kweyol has Kwéyòl - the language and the evolved and developed into a culture.” He added that the des- family affair where families get ignated communities were well together and with friends, either showcased: “Communities were host cultural lunches at their own able to share their own traditions homes with lots of Creole food steeped in our deep cultural Dr. Kentry D Jn Pierr and drink or travel together to heritage with all visitors to their the various communities for the areas.” festivities. or the last 25 years, Saint Jn. Pierre said the Folk Re- Lucians have gotten to- Every year FRC designates and search Centre continues its Fgether every year to cel- endorses specific communities commitment towards making ebrate their culture, history where the focus of the annual cel- St Lucians more aware of the and traditions in food, song, ebrations takes place. This year value of the Kwéyòl language music and dance and in cul- the spotlight was on the commu- and culture and its role in na- tural displays of practices of nities of Vieux Fort, Boguis and tional development. yesteryear. Soufriere. Meanwhile, our roving Since 1984 under the guid- And, after the many prepara- Photographer was able to cap- ance of the Folk Research Cen- tions in getting the food and en- ture the essence of the Jounen tre, nationals come together tertainment together and after Kweyol activities as she trav- on one special day “Jounen one hectic day of celebrations, eled around the island. Kweyol” on the last Sunday FRC has deemed it a success! Decked in cultural fashion of the month of October which Jounen Kwéyòl 2009 was a hit! (Photos by Isabelle) they all came out; the old...... and the young

Local music is made when people come together to have fun Its as much as about the food Page 6 Saturday October 31, 2009 Saturday October 31, 2009 Page 7

ith a major focus on education and culture, WSt. Lucia’s Prime Min- ister Stephenson King lends his unwavering support and com- mitment to his constituency Cas- tries North. This area comprises a popula- tion of approximately 15,000 na- tionals with the largest number of pre-school, infant, primary and secondary schools in any one constituency on the island. Prime Minister King who has always steadfastly made clear his views on giving young people a chance and educating them to al- low them the opportunity to face the challenges of an ever evolv- ing world, has certainly stood behind his commitment to pro- vide the best learning environ- ment for St. Lucia’s youth. Students of the Camille Henry Primary School remain safer due to To face a more modern world, the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School Principal of the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School Jeremy With a view to the comprehensive development of young people in St. In this issue we look at some of the recently renovated walkway phased out “Typing” and now educates students in the new and improved subject: Joseph accepting a cheque for the renovation of the EDMP Lab Lucia, the Prime Minister also focuses his attention on sports. Here, a the schools in the Castries North Electronic Document Preparation Management (EDMP) thanks to this up-to-date lab from Taiwanese Ambassador Tom Chou participant of the Stephenson King Football Tournament organized constituency where PM King by the La Clery Football League accepts a prize from the PM has lent financial support to see Hon. Stephenson King that facilities are renovated and MP for Castries North brought up to standard.

With a set-up that would make any food network television channel The recently renovated Vide Bouteille Secondary School makes for a better learning environment for its students Prime Minister Stephenson King mixes and mingles with students of the St. Joseph’s Convent (SJC) Secondary School, alma mater to proud, this home Economics Lab at the Vide Bouteille Secondary some of the most accomplished St. Lucian women School, prepares the island’s future top chefs, in culinary arts

Paving the way for St. Lucian students to become more compliant with the quickly paced technologically advanced world, the IT Lab at Prime Minister Stephenson King says the new IT lab at St. Mary’s College will maintain the standard Bright and sparkling, the newly re-furbished Christylights Dance Academy nurtures the artistic and A young SJC student hands over a token of appreciation to Prime Minister Stephenson King the Seventh Day Academy Secondary School was recently upgraded of excellence for which the school is known creative inclinations of the youth on the occasion of the cheque presentation for the renovation of the IT Lab that is ongoing Page 8 Saturday October 31, 2009 A Master Plan For St. Jude

Hospitality Academy For Saint Lucia? he possibility of the island Thereafter, we would assist those establishing a hospital- kids to get recruited by the cruise Tity and marine academy is lines. Once those kids go on the currently one of the main topics cruise ships for 3 to 4 years, that, of discussion by Tourism Minis- in and of itself will be like attend- ter Senator Allen Chastanet. ing a university” he said. Citing the lack of trained na- He added that the benefit to St. tionals in the cruise industry ac- Lucia of such an institution and Saint Jude Hospital gutted by fire on September 9, 2009 counting for the very low per- the subsequent work experience centage of Caribbean nationals garnered by the trained young employed in the cruise sector, people on cruise liners would be rime Minister Stephen- The master plan, according to Senator Chastanet believes that tremendous. “…when they are son King and officials of Ambassador Chou encompasses the establishment of such an in- coming back home we have an Pthe Ministry of Health The master plan several factors including cost and stitution in Saint Lucia would be even better skilled work force; and Saint Jude Hospital met sustainability. more than opportune. with the new hotels coming in, it last week with Taiwanese Meanwhile, The Embassy With the introduction of thirty- is going to be a huge advantage. building company Holdyear encompasses of Taiwan has donated over four new cruise lines that will ply We are approaching individual Enterprise Company Limited, EC$5,000.00 towards the Saint companies and also the cruise to review a proposed mas- the Caribbean waters within the several factors Jude rehabilitation project. industry as a group with the ter plan for the new St. Jude next three to four years, Senator The money was collected possibility of participating in this Hospital. Chastanet says it is important through a fund raising raffle investment.” including that people be adequately trained Prime Minister King de- undertaken by the Taiwanese and acquire the right skills for Saint Lucia is now in the pro- scribed the meeting as an his- Embassy and south based holi- the cruise industry. cess of signing a Memorandum toric moment in Saint Lucia’s cost and day resort Coconut Bay, during “We are proposing the estab- of Understanding with Monroe health sector. the recent Taiwan/Saint Lucia College St. Lucia and an inter- lishment of an academy that will “We welcome the opportu- Partnership Trade exhibition. national recruiting agency with sustainability take kids out of high school, put nity and we welcome the offer The cheque was presented a view to producing properly them through an 8-9 month cer- to develop a master plan for by Taiwanese Ambassador Tom trained individuals within the tification programme which will us with the hope that we will Chou to the Saint Jude Hospital be both academic and practical. cruise sector, the minister said. consider it to be one that is in moving swiftly with its plans to Board. keeping with our own vision,” assist with the rebuilding of Saint Accepting the cheque, Chair- Jude. the prime minister said. man of the Saint Jude Hospital PM Calls For Kweyol Taiwanese Ambassador to He says work on the proposed Board Percival Mc. Donald, said St. Lucia Tom Chou, says since design started almost immediately his team was very appreciative of In Schools the fire, his embassy has been after the September, 9, fire. the gesture. rime Minister Stephenson King examine history, the fact that says the need for the island to Saint Lucia changed hands seven Pfurther develop and increase times to the British and seven Courtesy Taxis Exclusive its linguistic capacity, both in re- times to the French shows there's gard to the local dialect Kweyol and a need for us to continue to main- French and Spanish, seen around the tain that relevance of our French Drivers For Pointe Seraphine world as the languages of business history and our British history. and economics. For us being able to speak Kwey- ne local taxi company is NDC officials say the agree- ol is an advantage; being able to One of the moves which the happy to benefit from a ment allows the taxi association speak French is a requirement. Courtesy Taxi island's leader believes can be recently signed agree- that numbers over 200 in mem- capitalized upon is Saint Lucia's I do hope the Kweyol Heritage O Co-operative bers, the opportunity to make Month will not only allow us to ment with the National Devel- historical link with the French opment Corporation (NDC), substantial income particularly culture, language, history and reflect on our history, but enable Society earlier caretakers of the Pointe Sera- in this winter season that will traditions. us to cherish the very unique this month signed see many cruise ships docking at history that we share with the phine Duty Free Shopping Speaking upon the occasion of Pointe Seraphine. French territories. a partnership Complex. the observance of Creole Heritage Under this two year agree- Courtesy Taxi Co-operative month that is celebrated here ev- The prime minister also not- agreement with ment, the members of the Cour- ed that literacy and fluency of Society earlier this month signed ery October and culminates with the National tesy Co-operative Society will the ever-growing festivities of citizens in the Kweyol language a partnership agreement, with be the only drivers and vehicles “Jounen Kweyol” the Prime Min- must be strengthened. Development the National Development Cor- allowed in the duty free zone to ister said Saint Lucia should try He suggested that the educa- poration (NDC) giving them ex- pick up passengers coming off to make the most of its historical tion system should provide a Corporation clusive rights to operate out of the ships to take them to their links, particularly to the French. place for the teaching of Kweyol (NDC) the duty free shopping centre at destinations on the island and on “When we look back and we in schools. Pointe Seraphine. various tours. Saturday October 31, 2009 Page 9

Ad d r e s s b y Ho n . Cha r l o t t e Te s s a Ma n g a l Mi n s t e r f o r Co mm e r c e , In d u s t r y a n d Co n s u m e r Af f a i r s At Th e Launch of Standards and Quality focal Points in the Public Service

Sa i n t Lu c i a Bu r e a u o f St a n d a r d s , Oc t o b e r 06, 2009,

s Minister with respon- sibility for Standards, I Awelcome this initiative The establishment of standards undertaken by the Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards in placing the importance of standards in and quality focal points in the the forefront of the operations In essence I am saying that the Lucia Bureau of Standards has of Government and in particu- public service is one initiative success of the private sector and enlisted more people to be at lar the operation of the Public by extension the employment the front lines of the effort to Service. that seeks to address the need opportunities that are created engender a quality culture in For too long the impression will be strongly influenced by the public service. The idea of has been given that the Public for standards the facilitation that the private ensuring that this initiative tar- Service is an institution where sector receives from the Govern- gets senior officers recognizes issues such as customer service; ment. In that regard therefore, your influence on policy makers performing within parameters the need for Government-wide and your own input in the policy ring, why should the public of- service very often serves as the such as deadlines and budget; standards is self evident. process. It is imperative that you ficer answering that call simply benchmark for the rest of the and getting a matter addressed track what is happening in your say to the caller “you’ve reached economy. The establishment of stan- right the first time are solely respective Ministries to advise the wrong Ministry” and hang dards and quality focal points within the ambit of the private It is therefore extremely im- on the application of standards in the public service is one ini- sector. The Public Service is gen- up without providing guidance portant that we, as a develop- where necessary. But critical to tiative that seeks to address the to the caller on the correct Min- ing country, establish standards the success of this initiative will erally portrayed as the institu- need for standards. It has as its istry to call. throughout the public service be your individual commitment tion plagued with mediocrity overall goal, “the promotion and In small economies such as that engender competitiveness. to include the other members of where people get paid handsome support for a quality culture in Competitiveness in the public your Ministry and infuse a sense salaries for doing very little and Saint Lucia, the importance of an the public service through the have a guaranteed job for life. It efficient and effective public -ser service will invariably translate of mission into the project. to competitiveness within the application and implementation is the place where the brightest vice can make all the difference I have been informed by the rest of the economy. The need of standards.” minds are employed but what is between lifting people from the Bureau that the initiative in- to cultivate an attitude of com- This initiative supports and produced is often very mundane status of the unemployed to the cludes the facilitation of action petitiveness has never before as- encourages advocacy among and lacks depth. position of independence and plans for Ministries which will sumed such great importance. I key stakeholders. It will, in the gaining a sense of self-worth. allow you to operationalize this That’s the unflattering picture am sure you are fully aware that pilot phase establish seven Stan- By simply providing the correct programme in your various Min- of the largest single employer in Saint Lucia is a full member of dards and Quality Focal Points information in a timely manner istries. Given what I have stated the country. It is a picture which the CSME and on the 15th of this throughout the public service to a potential investor, a public earlier, I trust that you will make is of course largely untrue but if month marks one year since we and conduct over the next four officer can facilitate a multimil- yourself available to ensure the we are honest, we will discover signed onto the Economic Part- months training sessions and lion dollar investment that could success of this initiative. that there is a great deal to be nership Agreement (EPA) with seminars for the targeted partici- make the difference between desired in the quality of service the European Union. These are pants. These sessions will focus This is the kind of partnership someone becoming a thief and delivered by some members of all bilateral agreements that are on: which must be forged and encour- therefore a criminal and that the public service. It is the expe- meant to engender greater ef- aged in the effort to reposition person becoming a taxpaying a. Introduction of the infra- rience that the public takes away ficiency and competitiveness the image of the public service member of society. structural framework for from those unfortunate encoun- within the private sector. The Quality Management Sys- and the national economy. Stan- ters that does the untold damage The public service as we know assumption is that competition tems; dards are a critical prerequisite to the credibility and profession- it is the arm of Government that will drive the need for greater to increasing efficiency, and pro- b. Management for Success alism of officers employed in provides advice to the policy competitiveness among firms ductivity. Its success will result in based on the ISO 9001- the public service. For example, makers and executes policy de- and individuals. But how will increased job satisfaction for of- 2008 Quality Management why should a telephone ring cisions. Its efficiency and perfor- these economic agents respond ficers involved, the private sector System Requirement; more than three times in an of- mance, in large measure, reflects when their very actions can be and satisfaction for the customer fice without someone answer- the work culture and attitude frustrated by a public service c. And facilitate the develop- as well. This is a win, win out- ing? And if per chance the call is to work of the wider society. which is not driven by the need ment of an action plan. come that redounds to the benefit answered on the fourth or fifth The standards set in the public for itself to be competitive? I am pleased that the Saint of the country. I thank you. Page 10 Saturday October 31, 2009

Are There Medicines To Health Minister Says The Island Treat 2009 H1N1 Infection? Remains On Top Of H1N1 Saint Lucia’s Health Minister Dr. stepped up to minimize incidences “Generally however, we are There are drugs your doctor may prescribe for treating both seasonal says he is pleased of infected people coming into the on top of the situation and we and 2009 H1N1 called “antiviral drugs.” These drugs can make you bet- with the way in which health au- country and spreading the disease. are trying at all costs to main- ter faster and may also prevent serious complications. thorities here are handling the “In cases where we have had tain the island’s levels of drugs Antiviral drugs are being used mainly to treat people who are very threat and the treatment of known outbreaks in schools, PAHO has to treat the disease. We have to sick, such as people who need to be hospitalized, and to treat sick people cases of the H1N1 virus. assisted us and we have gotten the be careful because in countries as small as ours, there is the who are more likely to get serious flu complications. Your health care To date with thousands of situation under control. All we are potential of this virus spread- provider will decide whether antiviral drugs are needed to treat your ill- people already succumbing to asking Saint Lucians is to continue ing quickly and the results ness. Remember, most people with 2009 H1N1 have had mild illness and the flu–like virus around the to observe precautionary mea- could be devastating not only have not needed medical care or antiviral drugs and the same is true of world, the island has not record- sures like covering their mouths to the lives of our people but seasonal flu. ed a single death. when they cough and sneeze, also to our economy, so we are Minister Mondesir says this is sneeze into your elbows and if you trying to minimize incidences largely due to government’s ef- feel ill, seek medical advice from of infection and to effectively What Household Cleaning forts through their various agen- your own doctor or at the various treat people who may become cies to ensure that Saint Lucians health centres that are specially set infected with H1N1.” up to deal with H1N1” Should Be Done To Prevent use preventative measures to Dr. Mondesir warned nation- keep the flu at bay and that they The heath minister has also cau- als to remain vigilant especial- The Spread Of Influenza Virus? are well attended when they tioned St. Lucians to stay home if ly those who are more suscep- contract the dangerous virus. they feel sick or feel themselves tible to contracting the disease To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep sur- He said health centres on coming down with flu-like symp- such as the elderly, children, faces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen coun- the island are well equipped to toms such as fever and also to keep expectant mothers and people ters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household handle cases and surveillance at their children at home and away with pre-dispositions such as disinfectant according to directions on the product label. the islands ports of entry have from school if children are sick. Diabetics. People also wonder how should linens, eating utensils and dishes of persons infected with influenza virus be handled? Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do Talking To Children About H1N1 not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not Educate yourself first. Know dia and adult conversations and normal as possible be shared without washing thoroughly first. the basic facts about H1N1—the about H1N1. even if your normal routine Linens (such as bed sheets and towels) should be washed by using symptoms, how it spreads, and • If your children are watching changes (due to daycare or household laundry soap and tumbled dry on a hot setting. Individuals how you can help protect your- television, try to watch with school closures). should avoid "hugging" laundry prior to washing it to prevent contami- self and your child from getting them or make sure you are • Be a good example. Show nating themselves. Individuals should wash their hands with soap and sick. Consider following some of available to answer questions children that you wash water or alcohol-based hand rub immediately after handling dirty laun- these helpful tips: about H1N1. your hands frequently with dry. Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand • Share information about • Use their questions as an op- soap and water. When with water and soap. H1N1 in a calm, reassuring portunity to talk about what you cough or sneeze, cover manner. Be careful not to they can do to avoid getting your mouth or use a tis- worry children. H1N1 flu. sue then throw the tissue What Are “Emergency • Limit their exposure to me- • Keep activities as consistent away. Warning Signs” That Should Signal Anyone To Seek Good Advice To Prevent (Swine Flu) H1N1 Medical Care Urgently? Dr. Vinay Goyal a specialist munications, can be practiced, once every day with warm with clinical experience of over such as: salt water by simply using In children: 20 years has issued the following 1. Frequent hand-washing a large syringe that gently forces a stream of saline so- • Fast breathing or trouble breathing advice about guarding against 2. "Hands-off-the-face". Resist all contracting the H1N1 Flu virus: lution through the nostril. • Bluish skin color temptations to touch any part The only flu portals of en- of the face 5. Boost your natural immu- • Not drinking enough fluids nity with foods that are rich try are the nostrils and mouth/ 3. Gargle twice a day with warm in Vitamin C. If you have to • Not waking up or not interacting throat. In a global epidemic of salt water (use Listerine if you this nature, it's almost impos- supplement with Vitamin • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held don't trust salt). H1N1 takes sible to avoid coming into con- 2-3 days after initial infection C tablets, make sure that it • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and tact with H1N1, in spite of all in the throat/ nasal cavity to also has Zinc to boost ab- worse cough precautions. Contact with H1N1 proliferate and show char- sorption. • Fever with a rash is not so much of a problem as acteristic symptoms. Simple 6. Drink as many warm liquids proliferation is. gargling prevents prolifera- - tea, coffee, etc, as you can. In adults: While you are still healthy tion. In a way, gargling with Drinking warm liquids has and not showing any symptoms salt water has the same effect the same effect as gargling, • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath of H1N1 infection, in order to on a healthy individual that but in the reverse direction. • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen prevent proliferation, aggrava- Tamiflu has on an infected They wash off proliferating • Sudden dizziness tion of symptoms, and develop- one. Don't underestimate this viruses from the throat into ment of secondary infections, simple, inexpensive, and pow- the stomach where they • Confusion some very simple steps, not fully erful preventative method. cannot survive, proliferate, • Severe or persistent vomiting highlighted in most official com- 4. Clean your nostrils at least or do any harm. Saturday October 31, 2009 Page 11 Montoute Underscores Human Resource

arliamentary Representa- their skills in small business balance between infrastructural tive for Gros-Islet and Min- management. and human development. Pister for Social Transforma- “Of equal importance is Hu- “We must prepare our people not only to take care of the struc- tion Lenard Montoute has been man Resource Development, be- tures but to make proper use of underscoring human resource cause if we as a people are not the structures. These structures are development as an integral part sufficiently developed in terms there for your use and if you are of national development. of our abilities, then our commu- not well equipped, prepared, and nity will never progress or make Human resource development, trained, then you will not be able he says is Saint Lucia's chief sell- strides, despite the structures that to make the best use of them.” ing point in its increasingly ser- are around us,” Montoute said. Minister Montoute referred to vice-based economy. The minister says it is com- the well known adage of "teach- The Gros-Islet MP recently ad- monplace for development to be ing a man to fish rather than dressed constituents who par- measured only on the basis of in- handing him one" as being the ticipated in an entrepreneurship frastructural development. most valuable lesson in human Hon. Lenard Montoute workshop designed to enhance He emphasised, there must be resource development. Minister for Social Transformation

Work continues at the Vigie Playing Field to upgrade the facility to a top grade sporting venue complete with cricket pitch, football field and synthetic two-lane track. Under the EU funded project to upgrade playing fields in St. Lucia, four other facilities are also being refurbished namely in La Guerre, Pierrot, Grand Riviere, Dennery and Corinth. Work is expected to be complete by year end Page 12 Saturday October 31, 2009

VAT Steering Is VAT Regressive? ALL ABOUT VAT! Committee One of the most commonly be applied across the board. Frequently Asked Questions The VAT Implementation asked questions about the im- This means that any item Project Office has strived to pact of a Value Added Tax on which is zero rated will attract What is VAT and Value Added? educate the public on the VAT society is whether it is a re- no VAT, no matter who buys system being recommended We all know that VAT stands for Value Added Tax. But what does for Saint Lucia. To date, the gressive tax. that item. that mean? Well, VAT is a tax that will be applied or levied on the team has held several meet- A tax is called regressive Deciding which items to value added to goods or services at every stage of the production and ings with many stakeholders, when a larger part of the sal- zero rate and exempt requires distribution chain. associations and institutions ary of households in the lower detailed analysis, careful plan- and hopes to continue this ning and execution. For this Value added are the costs that a businesses adds to its inputs or income bracket is paid in taxes, trend in the coming weeks. as compared to the same ratio reason enough time and con- purchases, before it sells its goods or services to a final consumer or another business. This is referred to as the business mark up. As mandated, the Vat for households in the higher sultation must be given for the Project has undertaken the income bracket. determination of such items, so necessary analyses relative as to ensure the desired impact Who is the Final Consumer? To tackle this regressive na- to implementing a VAT. The is felt mainly by those vulner- ture of VAT, the Project has A final consumer is anyone who buys goods or services for their approval of the first draft of able or low income groups. paid close attention to the personal consumption. In other words YOU! those recommended VAT pol- treatment of basic goods and Additionally, the Project is icies, regulations and legisla- services under the VAT sys- working in conjunction with VAT History tions is within the purview the Office of the Prime Min- of the policy-makers. To that tem, to ensure that vulnerable VAT is a modern tax which was first introduced in France in 1948. ister and Ministries of Educa- end, a seven-member body, and low income groups are not Currently, over 130 countries around the world have a Value Added tion, Health and Social Trans- called the VAT Steering Com- adversely affected. Tax. formation, with the aim of mittee has been established. This is achieved through ze- strengthening current and de- The committee comprises: ro-rating and exempting cer- VAT in the Caribbean veloping new social policies to Prime Minister and Minister tain goods and services. cushion any adverse effects of of Finance Stephenson King, The zero-rated or exempt VAT. Such policies include the Permanent Secretary in the treatment of goods and servic- school feeding program and Ministry of Public Service and es under the VAT system will “koudemain ste lucie”. Human Resource - Phillip Dalsou, Director of Finance - Isaac Anthony, Comptrol- ler of Inland Revenue - James Charles, Comptroller of Cus- Am I Vat Ready? toms and Excise - Herman St Helen, Budget Director - With the advent of the VAT, need to be provided to Cointhia Thomas, representa- there will be several changes customers who are reg- tive of the Attorney General’s that will affect the operations istered businesses/tax- Chambers - Dwight Lay and of every business in Saint Lu- payers. representative of the Private cia. And this would be totally 2. Understand the treat- Sector - Jason Sambrano. dependent on whether the ment of supplies that are: business has met or surpassed The main functions of this a) taxed — i.e. charged steering committee are to anal- the established VAT thresh- at the VAT rate b) zero- yse recommendations and as- old and would be required to rated—i.e. charged at a sess the impact on the business register and so charge value rate of zero percent c) community and vulnerable added tax – VAT - on taxable exempt—exempted from groups, as well as to determine supplies. VAT the effect of VAT on govern- In the interim however, all 3. Analyse whether you are ment policies. businesses should begin to as- able to separate goods sess the impact of VAT on their and services that are business, to prepare for these going to be taxed, from THIS WEEK ON NTN changes, while minimizing those that will be zero- disruption to their operations. rated or exempt. Re- Sat. 31th to Sun. 30th The VAT Implementation member, not all goods VAT in St Lucia Project intends to undertake and services will attract October 2009 extensive training and consul- a VAT. Discussions on VAT began in 2003, when the Eastern Caribbean NTN – PROVIDING tation in this regard. However, 4. Begin accurate record- Central Bank (ECCB) recommended that all Eastern Caribbean coun- INFORMATION YOU until the approval of VAT poli- keeping by getting the tries introduce VAT as part of a tax reform. Tax reform is the process NEED cies, and as part of the pre-im- following: a) Sales Book; of changing the way taxes are collected or managed by government. Station ID National Our Current tax system plementation exercise, all busi- b) Purchases book c) Anthem, Pledge nesses will need to: Cash book Direct taxes - these are taxes that are all levied directly on an indi- Programme Guide - 1. Determine whether their 5. Implement any process vidual or a company receiving an income and are paid directly to the 6.00 - 6:05 present accounting and changes, which includes Inland Revenue Department. Some examples are: Income Tax, Corpo- Take Two - The Week in cash registers are ca- training staff, particu- rate Tax and Withholding Tax Review - 6:05 – 6:15 pable of accounting for larly in the planning and Indirect taxes - these are taxes on goods and services and are paid Your Right To Know - VAT. All sales receipts receivable departments. only when you buy or use a good or service. In St Lucia we have 15 6: 15 – 6:30 issued to the final con- Remember, the VAT indirect taxes. These include: Consumption Tax, Hotel Accommoda- sumer must indicate Project will work closely Our Nation - Integrate Or tion Tax, Mobile Cellular Tax, Environmental Service Charge and In- the VAT charged. VAT- with all businesses in this Perish #1 1963 - 1973 - surance Premium Tax specified invoices will regard. Years of Hope: The Dream

Next Week: How does VAT react with other taxes?

National Review is published fortnightly by the Office of the Prime Minister and the Department of Information Services. Contact us at: The Office the Prime Minister and the Department of Information Services, Greaham LouisyAdministrative Building, The Waterfront, Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies Tel: (758) 468 2127/2116; E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]; website: http://stlucia.gov.lc