No. 8 • Saturday, JANUARY 30, 2010 www.stlucia.gov.lc

he Government of Only a day following its initial ment Organisation (NEMO) in- Quite apart from its pledge of EC CDEMA coordinating team. was swift statement, Government in a Press formed Saint Lucian of the estab- Half Million Dollars towards the Caricom has since communi- in its response to the Release issued on January 14th, lishment of a Haiti Earth Quake Earth Quake relief effort, the Gov- cated that its collective response Haitian Earth Quake 2010 following weekly Cabinet Aid Appeal Fund and provided ernment of Saint Lucia has broad- would be best provided in the TDisaster when it issued a state- meetings confirmed a pledge of information for accessing the ened its support to the provision area of Health. In this regard ment on the morning follow- a half million dollars as its con- related accounts at the various of technical support through the the Government of Saint Lucia ing the catastrophic 7.0 earth local banks. See listing of bank tribution to the Haitian Earth coordination of the Caribbean stands ready to provide further Quake which ravaged the account numbers for the Earth Quake relief effort. Local media Disaster Response Unit and the assistance under a coordinated Capital, Port au Prince. The establishments have also been Quake Fund on page 9. Caribbean Disaster Emergency Statement which expressed Caricom effort. The response written to by the Office ofthe Government has indicated its Management Agency. This has sympathy and solidarity with and leadership of the Saint Lu- Prime Minister requesting that willingness to review its contri- involved the deployment of per- the people of Haiti, read in cian Government is a manifes- they consider the production of sonnel from the Saint Lucia Police part: “Even ahead of a full bution based on updates and ad- tation of its commitment to the Public Service Announcements or Force and the Fire Service respec- assessment of damage and vise from Caricom. This would regional integration process. Printing of Promotions appealing tively. Saint Lucian Dr. Gemma actual needs following this include consideration of request Government urges all Saint Lu- to the Saint Lucian public to do- disaster, the Government of for accommodating Haitian na- Cherry formed part of the initial cians to follow its lead by do- nate to the Haiti Earth Quake Aid Saint Lucia is committing to tionals for stated periods under CDEMA Assessment Team and nating generously to assist our Appeal Fund. providing relief assistance to stipulated guidelines. This may NEMO Coordinator Ms. Dawn Haitian brothers and sisters by Haiti under the umbrella of a A Statement released by the include giving priority to chil- French is currently in Haiti until contributing to the Haiti Earth National Emergency Manage- dren, injured and sick persons. February 7th, 2010 as part of the Caricom response”. Quake Aid Appeal Fund.

st. jude hospital site redevelopment LAYOUT

HOTLINE: 450-JUDE Page 2 Saturday January 30, 2010 Government Stages Successful Diaspora Youth Video Conference 2010 y all accounts, the histori- the need to highlight the life and takes us beyond the electoral cycle cal and inaugural Diaspora work of our renowned artist Sir and far into the future. BYouth Video Conference Dunstan St. Omer. In light of the Our energized youth in Tortola held on Monday 18th January, general perception that our nation embraced the opportunity to com- 2010 was a resounding success! St. does not sufficiently celebrate our mend the organizers of the video Lucian participants were hosted at outstanding nationals, the Prime conference and assured the gath- the ECCB board room in the Colo- Minister posed the daunting ques- ering that we do have national ny House on High- tion to participants, “How do we pride but more can be done to way and were joined via video as a country sensitize our children boost it. They expressed that there by our youth in Ottawa, Toronto, and get them to appreciate our St. was significant interest among St. New York City, Washington D.C, Lucian role models?” Lucian youth in the B.V.I to learn Tortola B.V.I, Mona Campus- Ja- Her Excellency, Dame Pearlette our creole and folk dances and maica, Cave Hill Campus- Barba- Louisy lamented the fact that there requested assistance in sourcing dos and St. Augustine Campus- are numerous students who go Creole books, music and costumes Trinidad. Unfortunately our youth through the Sir Arthur Lewis Com- to assist in the propagation of our Governor General Dame and Dr. June Soomer listen in London and at Grambling State munity College and at the end of culture over there. University were unable to join us intensely to contributions from Overseas based Saint Lucian Youth their studies cannot tell you very Along with the assembly in Ja- due to technical issues. Under the much about Sir Arthur Lewis. patronage of her Excellency, Dame maica, St. Lucia’s CARICOM Youth Our young St. Lucians in Wash- LUCIAN!” who underscored the indispens- Pearlette Louisy, Prime Minister, ambassador, Mr. Nintus Magre, ability of significant investment The Honourable ington were adamant that more highlighted the need to utilize our The youth delegation in New in agriculture, environmental con- was also in attendance along with must be done to thoroughly pro- Creole language to advance our York reinforced the point that servation and transmission of our Ambassador Dr. June Soomer mote our Nobel Laureates espe- culture and all that is St. Lucian. young people have an integral creole language. and Permanent Secretary in the cially among our youth. They were He applauded the Homecoming role to play in politics and in their ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. critical of the apparent late adver- Committee for fully utilizing cre- schools and that it is up to us to As the event drew to a close, Donovan Williams. Our participat- tising of scholarships and called for ole in our theme “Tout Sent Li- promote ourselves as St. Lucian. Prime Minister King assured par- ing overseas dignitaries included more scholarships to be offered to syen Sé Yonn.” The youth ambas- They observed that comments in ticipants of the government’s com- Ambassador Dr. Keith St. Aimee in overseas institutions. Of particular sador urged us to “take upon the the technological category were mitment to preserving our cultural New York and Ambassador Bren- concern to them were the steps be- consciousness that we are SAINT lacking especially as this age of- and natural heritage and to the ad- don Brown in Ottawa. vancement of the St. Lucian people. The Prime Minister noted the chal- This video conference met its lenges faced in developing and ad- mark by providing an opportunity vertising a naturally beautiful St. for our youth in Saint Lucia and Lucian tourism product to visitors abroad to engage their leaders in while seeking to not destroy this discussion on issues of pertinence product in the construction of ac- to them. commodation for these visitors. Our youth from the University The “Green, Clean and Pristine” of the West Indies’ Cave Hill Cam- environmental campaign has been pus in Barbados got proceedings put forward by Mr. King to local underway with their passionate youth groups and he is presently sentiments about St. Lucia seizing awaiting their action plan where the opportunity to play a greater they will receive government’s full role in the affairs of U.W.I. They financial backing. He provided a also proposed initiatives such as glimpse into his administration’s Derek Walcott Scholarships and an plans for the development of a Na- Institute of Literary Arts and Eco- tional University in the south, public nomics, respectively, named after recreational beach parks, a St. Lu- our Nobel Laureates. cian culture TV channel, and the vi- The Mona Campus’ contingent sion for a multi-lingual Saint Lucian followed with a stunning contri- society through a rigorous foreign bution on national pride and our Youth discuss matters of interest language programme in schools. intrinsic St. Lucian identity. In vis- iting clothing stores and fashion The Prime Minister is enthusias- outlets and seeing various coun- ing taken to provide the youth of fers infinite possibility in the dis- portunities for ourselves in our tic about the more frequent host- tries’ flags and logos being sport- tomorrow with employment and semination of information and in homeland and fight the mentality ing of such video conferences and ed, they noted the lack of a “St. incentives to return to St. lucia. unconventional and exciting fields that St. Lucia has no opportunities the formation of an “International St. Lucian Youth Network” to in- Lucian line.” Students in Jamaica Ambassador Dr. June Soomer of study. for us. corporate youth from all corners of called for greater government put forward the question, “How The Toronto group relayed Mr. Donovan Williams, Perma- the Diaspora. support with regard to “economic do we weigh our Nobel laureates to us that they have established nent Secretary in the Ministry of costs” of their studies and in the against Bob Marley and Usain a “Derek Walcott Achievement Youth and Sports, expressed de- Ambassador Soomer has indi- creation of employment in certain Bolt?” Not surprisingly, our youth Award” and have formed an or- light in detecting what he called cated that more activities geared fields of study such as Forensic in Jamaica offered a response in ganization called “Children of St. “The I Can” mood of the event, the at engaging our youth will follow Psychology. that it is not about comparing the Lucia” which seeks to encourage desire of participants to effect the this video conference including Prime Minister, the Honourable two sets of icons (academics vs our youth in politics and the arts. required change in our society. The various essay and arts competi- Stephenson King then took the music and athletics) but “It’s about They also praised the support P.S stated that there were a num- tions and the penultimate Youth floor and endeavored to address you! Not about Marley and Hus- which the St. Lucian Consulate ber of ongoing initiatives aimed at Summit is scheduled for July 2010 the concerns of our students in sein but about Jamaica.” We must Office has been continuously pro- addressing the concerns raised by where a formal youth policy for Barbados and Jamaica. He deemed therefore seek to be proud of St. viding to them. These participants participants but that proper com- our nation will be adopted. “The Derek Walcott Institute of Lucia, not primarily because of the also praised the St. Lucian educa- munication of such is lacking. He Congratulations to the Home- Arts” and “The Sir Arthur Lewis accomplishments of Hon Derek tional system as one of the best in cited the importance of such fo- coming 2010 committee for the Institute of Economics” excellent Walcott or Sir Arthur Lewis but the world and echoed the prevail- rums and of their being hosted on successful organizing of this pio- recommendations and an oppor- because they and we, are St. Lu- ing call for us to advance ourselves a regular basis. neering event and to our youth tunity to institutionalize the work cian! The Mona Campus’ St. Lu- by ourselves. An insightful contribution was in the Diaspora who voiced their and philosophies of these promi- cians made a plea that we adopt a St. Lucian youth in Ottawa em- made by local anthropologist and concerns so passionately and nent icons. Mr. King also noted 2020 Vision for St. lucia, one which phasized that we must create op- botanist Mr. Laurent Jn. Pierre articulately. Saturday January 30, 2010 Page 3 Saint Lucia Prepares for Homecoming July 2010

lans are continuing fe- ity with which they have held on Homecoming 2010 which are as governance and their function in the communities from which verishly for the hosting to the culture of their native land, follows: To build partnerships be- promoting democracy for all. they are from. Pof Homecoming 2010, a enabling the country to be put on tween Saint Lucians living over- Prior to the event in July, there Erection of Welcome Ban- celebration of nationals living the map with their contributions seas and Saint Lucians at home, will be a number of activities and ners at the Airports - These overseas. in all areas. to encourage Saint Lucians living a programme of activities (see be- banners would serve as a The event scheduled for July In his speech at the launch of overseas to invest in their coun- low) has been put together by the means of advertising Home- 2010, is about encouraging Saint Lucian Homecoming 2010, try, to encourage young Saint Lu- Prime Minister’s Office. coming. As nationals come Saint Lucians living overseas Prime Minister Stephenson King cians living overseas to maintain Activities preceding the event home to visit or enjoy the to return home to celebrate noted that the role of the youth in contact with their country and to include: Flag raising presenta- Cricket and Jazz they would what it means to be a Saint country’s development will also establish structures to facilitate tions at Secondary Schools - This be aware of this event in Lucian. be at the centre of these activities. Saint Lucians overseas in their ef- activity would help instill Nation- July and also pass this infor- As a nation Saint Lucia has This is expected to make the forts to reintegrate into the Saint al Pride, something that the com- mation to their fellow Saint benefited greatly from them continued journey more sustain- Lucian community. mittee believes is lacking within Lucians living within the and wants to encourage them able and secure for all Saint Lu- A key objective of Homecom- our Youth. They will be taught Diaspora. to continue to invest in our cians. The Prime Minister also ing 2010 is to reintroduce these the significance of the Coat of Diaspora Road Show - This country in many ways. Home- called for a Saint Lucia youth second and third generations to arms, the meaning of the colors trip would take us to the US coming 2010 is a chance to re- summit, establishment of mentor- their familial homeland and to in the flag as well as the need to Virgin Islands, a continuation unite old friends and families ship programmes and exchanges also encourage conversations know the National Anthem. of what started in June 2009. who have not seen each other with second and third generation among all Saint Lucian youth Erection of Welcoming Bill- The following topics will be since they said goodbye years Saint Lucians. about their role in the develop- boards in Communities around discussed: “OECS Economic ago. Moreover, it will be an This request for more youth ment of the country, the promo- the island - This would help in Union”; “Lucian Reunion opportunity to say thanks to involvement is fundamental to tion of excellence at home and welcoming our nationals living 2010” and “Investing in Saint all Saint Lucians for the tenac- the objectives for Saint Lucian abroad, their involvement in overseas back home as well as to Lucia’s Development”.

Theme Song Theme Song Tout Sent Lisyen Se´ Yonn

ACTIVITIES PRECEEDING HOMECOMING 2010 ************ ************ ACTIVITIES PRECEEDING HOMECOMING 2010

Welcome JANUARY - Nobel Laureate Week Activity: Youth Video TOUT SENT LISYEN SE YONN 2 2 JANUARY - Nobel Laureate Week Activity: Youth Video TOUT HomeSENT LISYEN to SE allYONN Conference Conference No matter where your navel string We have to start working togetherWe have to start working together - Launch of Competitions - Launch of Competitions No matterSaint whereSo we Lucians have your anavel stake stringin Saintt lucia bury So we have a stake in Saintt lucia - Launch of Governor’s - Awards Launch of Governor’s Awards bury Those in the Diaspora and North south east or west in this Those in the Diaspora and - Meetings with all Committees - Meetings with all Committees North southWho east living or in west Saint in Lucia this - Meeting with Community Groups country country Who living in Saint Lucia - Meeting with Community Groups Invest in the economy Means you born in Saint LuciaMeans you born in Saint Lucia Invest in the economy Your input we calling for A better future we will see A better future we will see FEBRUARY - Independence Activity: Flag Raising Presentations Your input weBe callingthe success for story FEBRUARY - Independence Activity: Flag Raising Presentations Cause de progress of this nationCause de progress of this nation Be the success story at Secondary Schools. at Secondary Schools. Depend on every Saint Lucian You want for your country You want for your country - Erection of Welcoming Billboards in Communities Depend on every Saint Lucian - Erection of Welcoming Billboards in Communities And if you living abroad And if you living abroad around the island around the island You have to come on board Chorus DraftChorus Programme January—July -2010 Erection of Welcome Banners at the Airports You have to come on board - Erection of Welcome Banners at the Airports - Meeting with all Committees Wave your Lucian flag high - Meeting with all Committees Chorus Wave your Lucian flag high - Diaspora Road Show in the Virgin Islands Wave Chorus your Lucian flag high - Diaspora Road Show in the Virgin Islands Wave your Lucian flag high When we start to speak Creole Wave your Lucian flag high Wave your Lucian flag high When we startHigh to highspeak high Creole high MARCH - TrainingMARCH for individuals - participatingTraining in for the individuals participating in the We go into we own world We go into we own world High high high high Partnership Fair Tout Sent Lisyen se yonn Wave your Lucian flag high Wave your Lucian flag high Partnership Fair Tout Sent LisyenWave seyour yonn Lucian flag high - Diaspora Road Show - in the French Diaspora Antilles Road Show in the French Antilles We share de same culture We share de same culture Wave your Lucian flag high - Meeting with Community Groups Wave your Lucian flag high Wave your Lucian flag high - Meeting with Community Groups Cause we all from Saint LuciaCause we all from Saint Lucia Tout Sent Lisyen se yonn High high high high High high high high Tout Sent Lisyen se yonn APRIL - Meetings with all Committees We want you to APRIL - Meetings with all Committees We want you to - Meeting with Community Groups Bring your money 3 3 - Tout Sent Meeting Lisyen with Community Se´ Yonn Groups Bring your moneyTaking charge is priority Bring your skill Bring your skill Taking charge is priority Your knowledge we need home still Don’t forget this is our countryDon’t forget this is our countryMAY - MeetingsMAY with all Committees - Meetings with all Committees Your knowledgeTalk aboutwe need remittances home still - Meeting with Community Groups With your money With your money Talk about remittances - Meeting with Community Groups Buy your country Of Saint Lucians overseas Of Saint Lucians overseas Buy your countryDon’t think we haven’t noted Welcome Give a hand Don’t think we haven’t noted JUNE - MeetingsJUNE with all Committees - Meetings with all Committees Give a handYes you are appreciated - Meeting with Community Groups To your home land To your home land Yes you are appreciated - Meeting with Community Groups For twenty ten reunion Home to all - Training for individuals participating in the This is a call to action This is a call to action For twenty ten reunion - Training for individuals participating in the Come home all Saint Lucians Partnership Fair Come and build your own nationCome and build your own nation Come home all Saint Lucians Partnership Fair Tout Sent Lisyen se yonn Saint Lucians Tout Sent Lisyen se yonn Chorus Chorus

Wave your Lucian flag left Wave your Lucian flag left Wave your Lucian flag right Wave your Lucian flag right Tout Sent Lysien se yonn Tout Sent Lysien se yonn Wave your Lucian flag left Wave your Lucian flag left

Draft Programme January—July 2010 Page 4 Saturday January 30, 2010 St. Jude Hospital Expands Services

and timely care to its patients as well as play host to overseas spe- cialists who give of their time to serve the people of Saint Lucia. The expansion will allow for the operation of a temporary eye clinic that offers ophthalmologic care to in- and out-patients. Operating with modern equip- ment and staffed by locals and overseas doctors the unit is espe- cially focusing on the eye care of Beds are put in as work continues on the new wards in the East Wing Diabetics. With Saint Lucia recording one of the highest incidences of Diabe- tes in the world, the health prac- titioners are paying particular at- tention to glaucoma and bleeding disorders in the eye brought on by the disease. Dr. John Dunn of Lansing Oph- thalmology, Regional Eye Care Center of Michigan, USA, who recently manned the clinic, said there are too many cases of blind- ness brought on by glaucoma and Dr. John Dunn and his staff in the temporary eye clinic in the new Diabetes on the island. East Wing of the St. Jude Hospital The East Wing soon-to-be fully equipped Emergency Room A return visiting specialist at St. Jude, Dr. Dunn said too many Saint n the wee hours of the fateful offer full medical care to patients setting up a hospital in a sports With the expansion plans now final- Lucians and young nationals espe- morning of Wednesday, Sep- – resident and out-patients in the stadium, he explained that at first, ized, Dr. Poyotte said that the out- cially, were losing their eyesight to Itember 9, 2009 the island’s sec- most professional manner. there were many obstacles to be look is to have two fully equipped the disease. “Sadly it does not have ond largest hospital St. Jude Hos- To date the temporary hospi- faced. ORs with at least 50 beds. to be so” he said. He stressed on pital in the southern town of Vieux tal offers 30 beds with most of “We had many challenges par- “So in the next 3 – 4 weeks, early detection of the illness as one Fort was gutted by a terrible fire. the facilities offered by any medi- ticularly dealing with the plumb- based on our expansion plans we of the first steps in combating Dia- This electrical fire that report- cal institution including surgical, ing and electrical infrastructure in will have a proper Ophthalmol- betes and blindness. edly began in a wooden ceiling of emergency, maternity, paediatrics, a sports stadium to bring it up to ogy Clinic housed at the stadium. “This eye clinic at St. Jude the decades old structure, quickly radiology, lab and ICU to name a mark for a hospital or medical fa- We also hope to establish a dental though temporary, is an excel- spread throughout the facility few. cility. I must say that we were very clinic which we don’t have at the lent facility where people can call, completely razing it, destroying Located in the West Wing of the creative in bringing in air condi- moment.” make appointments and come see expensive medical equipment sports stadium, St. Jude Hospi- tioning, plumbing and even sinks All in all the Medical Director the doctors who are here. Early de- and literally making homeless tal continues to serve Vieux Fort to bring this place up to medical said he is pleased with the public tection is the only way to go to pre- scores of patients seeking medical and its environs from Micoud to standards.” response to the hospital’s plight vent blindness in so many people; treatment. Soufriere. However, in the period since the adding that the institution has re- and in cases where there is already damage to the eye, this can be The medical authorities at St And, plans are now afoot to ex- fire, St. Jude Hospital at the George ceived benefactors from both in- Jude along with Ministry of Health Odlum Stadium has re-established side and outside of Saint Lucia. helped with laser treatment right pand the facility’s services to up- here at St. Jude Hospital.” Officials moved swiftly in identify- grade it to a forty to sixty bed in- patient clinics with a fully opera- “Our ultimate goal is to have a ing the nearby multi-million dollar stitution with additional services tional, quick and efficient triage better equipped facility than the Dr. Dunn added that nationals George Odlum Stadium as a make- including a dental unit and fully and emergency care unit and be- old hospital and I have no doubts needed to pay more attention to shift hospital making room for sur- operational ophthalmologic unit. ing in close proximity to an inter- that it will work out this way. To their eye health and their health gical patients and other gravely ill national airport viz the Hewanorra and wellness generally, which he Medical Director of St. Jude Dr. date our benefactors are identify- people who needed the urgent hos- International Airport, the facility ing our specific needs and target- emphasised, could be markedly pital care. Chierry Poyotte is very pleased had to have a fully operational Op- improved with proper diet and with the progress of the displaced ing them and we are developing Four months later with plans to erating Room (OR) which to date is and growing slowly, but steadily.” exercise and in the event of illness facility. Walking National Review also fully functional. excellent health care at St. Jude completely rebuild the old struc- through the process of urgently While makeshift, the St. Jude Hos- ture into an up-to-date, state of the pital continues to deliver efficient Hospital, Vieux Fort. art facility, the improvised medical facility at the Stadium continues to Saturday January 30, 2010 Page 5

and why they think their projects planned for March 2010. will work. They are also asked To date, the Gen X coordina- RG Group CEO Rayneau Gajadhar to present or verbally explain a tors have been meeting with sev- business plan. eral public and private, govern- awarded by Chamber for ‘bright ideas’ Once registered, a Gen X ap- mental and non-governmental plicant will qualify to be judged organizations and institutions to proposed projects from idea to by a panel that will select the ten discuss the project and to invite reality. (10) project ideas that best fit the their participation. criteria of innovation, practicabil- Scores of young people from Among the entities already ity, sustainability and community across the country have been met are the Ministries of Educa- impact. indicating interest in the Gen X tion, Commerce and Social Trans- program and have been applying After the Top Ten are selected, formation, the Office of Private to register and participate. they will qualify for starting cap- Sector Relations (OPSR) and the ital from the $50,000 budget set James Belgrave Micro-enterprise Gajadhar says he is “very aside by the RG Group, to help Development Fund (Belfund). pleased with the response to the them transform their ideas into Gen X program so far” and he Meetings have also been held reality. is encouraging other local pub- with private entities and groups lic and private sector entities “to Gajadhar announced the Gen and those still to be met include join us in making the program as X program in early September the Small Enterprise Develop- national as possible.” 2009. Since then, he says, “There ment Unit (SEDU), the National have been several applications Research and Development When he originated the idea and interviews.” Foundation (NRDF), the Cham- last year, Gajadhar said it was “to ber of Commerce, SLISBA, the invest in the future of business “But we want to hasten the Manufacturers Association and and the business of the future pace, so we are approaching the by investing in young people Ministry of Education to help us private companies that have also with bright ideas to invent new get to 5th and 6th formers from shown interest. Rayneau Gajadhar addresses the gathering at the launch of Gen X

oung local businessman Rayneau Gajadhar has Ybeen awarded by the Chamber of Commerce with the JQ Charles Award for Idea of the Year. He won the prize at the St. Lucia Business Awards Ceremony held January 23, 2010 at the Sandals Grande Beach Resort and Spa. The Chamber said before the ceremony that the award “will be presented to the organization demonstrating an ability to take advantage of unexplored oppor- tunities, solve a problem or ad- dress a serious need with a fresh, new ‘out of the box’ concept that is both sustainable and viable.” Gajadhar is known for coming up with bright ideas. The first of his two most recent was the six- month Stimulus Package for the Construction Industry, launched in June 2009, in which his Group partnered with other local firms and agencies, including banks, to provide massive discounts to qualified persons wanting to build, renovate, extend or other- Participants listen attentively wise engage in construction. Over 200 persons applied to neurs – Generation Next program, things or new ways of doing old the 21 secondary schools on the Meanwhile, the Gen X project make use of the package and sev- which had a formal Press Launch things.” island, while we will devise oth- has been welcomed by the Cath- eral homes are under construc- on January 7th. The program en- “Their ideas don’t have to be er means to get to those who are olic Church, which dedicated tion at lower costs. courages young people to think original, but must be innovative outside the school system in com- a mass on Sunday, January 24, outside the box and develop in- The Stimulus Package was -- and sustainable enough to at munities across the island.” 2010 at the Minor Basilica of the novative and self-sustaining joined by several other local com- least the person or persons pre- “We are also appealing to the Immaculate Conception to the projects. This latest initiative by panies supplying building mate- senting them,” he said. Ministry of Commerce and relat- program. A special message from Mr. Gajadhar has also gained the rials around the island and in the Archbishop Robert Rivas was support of Government, which in The program is aimed at na- ed business and entrepreneurial six months that it lasted prices of also read in all Catholic Church- an October 14th, 2009 statement tionals between 18 and 34 who agencies and institutions for en- building materials were drasti- es across the island on that day, declared: “The Government is ex- have left school -- including so- dorsement,” he said. cally reduced by between 20% encouraging young people to tremely pleased by this expression called “drop-outs”. There are no Commenting on the feedbacks and 60%. participate. of generosity and forward thinking qualifications required. They are to date, Gajadhar said “many The Stimulus Package was wel- on the part of Mr. Gajadhar, which being invited to “Think outside young persons have been com- The mass was attended by comed and endorsed by Prime it expects will help to broaden the box” and come up with bright ing in with ideas that range from members of staff of the RG Group Minister Stephenson King in his the scope of options available to ideas that can put them and/or inventions to new improvements of Companies and the Archbishop 2009 Budget Address. young school leavers”. others to work and earn. for old ways of doing things.” said he was pleased that the ini- Last September Gajadhar also The RG Group has committed Interested persons can register The RG Group CEO says the tiators of the project had decided formally announced another $50,000.00 to the project to help to participate, after which they first 10 projects selected will be “to turn to God for guidance” at idea --the Discovering Entrepre- successful applicants take their are invited to explain their ideas announced at a formal ceremony the beginning of the year. Page 6 Saturday January 30, 2010 Saturday January 30, 2010 Page 7

Prime Minister King Leads Official Delegation On State Visit To he Government of Cuba Minister King expressed Centre. At this facility dis- training and general living to be fulfilled by student undertook a five (5) day great interest in the work of cussions were held on pos- conditions. nurses. TOfficial State Visit to Cuba the Association and in par- sible technical assistance Prime Minister King gave as- 4. Tour of Tourism town of Vara- early January, 2010 in response to ticular the welfare of the in areas related health, ag- surance of follow-up in four main dero and Presentation by the an invitation from the Govern- Saint Lucian Descendents riculture and rodent/pest areas: Varadero Tourism Authority. ment of the Caribbean State. and promised to maintain control. 1. Negotiations of “soft loan” The visit came to end with a The delegation led by Prime ties and follow their prog- • Visit to Nursing School in conditions with the SLDB special reception hosted by H.E. PM King met on arrival at the Jose Marti International Airport by Cuban Vice Foreign Min. Minister Stephenson King also ress. Jagüey Grande – Interna- for loans to cover addition- Jovita St. Marthe, Saint Lucian H.E. Senor Rogelio Sierra PM and Mrs. King with St. Lucian Students studying in Havana comprised Minister of Education • Visit to the 103 bed Oph- tional School of Nursing al period of study to attain Ambassador to Cuba. and Culture - Arsene James; Min- thalmologic Institute – “Ra- for the Caribbean – Mario Bachelor of Science Degree ister of Health Wellness, Family mon Pando Ferrer”. The Raudilio Fleitas Martinez. The Saint Lucian delegation in Nursing. Affairs, Human Services and Gen- visit allowed the delega- The delegation met with was seen off at the Jose Marti der Relations – Dr. Keith Monde- tion to view state-of-the art the population of 173 Saint 2. Exploring avenues for trans- International Airport on Sun- sir and Ambassador Extraor- equipment and facilities at Lucian students studying fer of monies to students day, January 11, 2010 by Cuban dinary and Plenipotentiary for Cuba’s premier Ophthal- at that facility. Students ex- without being subjected to Ambassador to Saint Lucia, H.E. CARICOM and OECS, Dr. June mologic Institute and to pressed their concerns to the 20% tax applied by Cuban Hugo Ruiz Cabrera, Saint Lucian Soomer and Government Press undertake initial discus- delegation. The concerns in Government. Ambassador to Cuba H.E. Jovita Secretary Darnley Lebourne. sions related to support as- general revolved around 3. Approach to Regional Nurs- St. Marthe and Cuban Vice For- ing Association for modi- The main objectives of the visit sistance with officials at the status of programme, loan eign Minister H.E. Senor Rogelio fication on requirements were to discuss issues of health Hospital. conditions, duration of Sierra, among others. and education; to meet with Saint • Official ceremony at which Lucians studying in Cuba and to Prime Minister King laid a express support for the further wreath at the Monument to integration of Cuba into Cari- Cuba’s National Hero, Jose com. Marti. The visit was undertaken • The Official welcome - cer against the backdrop of the Cari- emony during which Prime Health Minister, Hon. engages Cuban Ophthalmologist during visit to com policy on Cuba on full en- Minister Stephenson King the “Ramon Pando Ferrer” Ophthalmologic Institute PM Kings lays wreath and pays respect to Cuban National Hero – Jose Marti gagement and integration of that was received by Cuba’s country within the Caribbean President H. E. Raul Castro community. Ruiz. While there, Prime Minister • Formal talks between the King and his delegation partici- Saint Lucian and Cuban pated in an intensive programme Leaders and Working Meet- on education and health while ings between the two del- also attending to matters related egations. These discussions to agriculture, cultural heritage examined matters of mu- and tourism. tual interest and explored The highlights of the visit in- areas of possible devel- cluded: opment assistance. Areas examined included: deep- • A meeting with over 30 St. ening of educational assis- Lucian University Students tance in areas such as Adult studying in Havana. This Literacy, Cultural Heritage meeting allowed students conservation, etc. Provision to address any concerns or of health care specialist problems which they may and interventions in rela- have had to Government Prime Minister King and President Castro stand at attention for the playing of the tion to eye care, treatment two states national anthems Official Talks Officials and to engage in of foot ulcers, rodent con- discussions on other mat- trol and mosquito control. ters of general interest. Talks were developed in • Meeting with members of relation to climate change, the Caribbean Association deepening of the regional of Cuba, which comprises integration movement, descendants of Caribbean possibilities for improve- migrants who visited Cuba ment of people to people in the 1920’s. The associa- and trading links between tion was established in 1932 Cuba and Caricom and the and currently includes ap- matter of transportation be- proximately twenty St. Lu- tween Cuba and the rest of cian descendents. Among the region. those being an 84 year • Discussions with H.E. Mr. old Cuban-St. Lucian, Mr. Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz, Nelio Danzier Cooper who Minister for Foreign Trade left Saint Lucia at the age and Investment on related of four (4) with his parents matters. and is currently the eldest Mr. Danzier Cooper (84) hugs PM King in a person of Saint Lucian ori- • Visit to the Genetic Engi- The two Leaders Stand for a Photo before a Colured Wall Painting by a Cuban Painter. Saint Lucian Nursing students gathered at meeting hall of the Mario Raudilio Hon. Arsene James was happy to meet Joyful Embrace. He travelled to Cuba from gin living in Cuba. Prime neering and Bio-technology The Painting is called: The America’s Sun. Revolution” Fleitas Martinez International School of Nursing students from his constituency St. Lucia at the age of 4 years Page 8 Saturday January 30, 2010

Ministry of Education and Culture Awards of Excellence 2010

he Ministry of Education Entrance Examinations were tion of a student of the Dunnottar 1979 island scholar of Saint Lucia Improved School. and Culture held its an- recognized. School, Shervaughn George for Dr. Horatius Jeffers. Consuelo Dupal, a student of Tnual Awards of Excellence The top performer at the 2009 his musical prowess. That stu- An added feature of the Awards Monroe College, was awarded Ceremony on Tuesday, January dent also began the proceedings Common Entrance Examination Ceremony was the presenta- for making Saint Lucia proud by 19, 2010 under the distinguished by playing the national anthem was Renita Shivnauth, a former tion of Certificates of Excellence winning the Caribbean Talented patronage of Her Excellency on steel pan. student of the Dame Pearlette in Teaching to teachers whose Teen competition. In its 21 year Dame Pearlette Louisy, Governor Louisy Primary School. At the secondary school level, schools had received 100% pass history, this is the first time a General of Saint Lucia. the top performers at the 2009 Ca- rates in at least six subjects writ- Saint Lucian has won the crown. The Awards Ceremony is the All the top performing students ribbean Examinations Council’s ten at the CXC level. at last year’s Common Entrance The Awards of Excellence is Ministry’s celebration of excel- examinations were recognized. A total of 64 teachers repre- geared towards inspiring and lence and forms part of the cel- Examination received percentag- es above 90%. The top perform- At the tertiary level, the top per- senting St.Joseph’s Convent, St. motivating Saint Lucian students ebration of Nobel laureate Week. formers at the various divisions of ing primary school was the Des Mary’s College, Com- and those involved in education During the ceremony, the ex- the Sir Arthur Lewis Community prehensive Secondary, Corinth to aspire to excellence, taking Barras Combined School. cellent performances of students College were recognized. Secondary, Soufriere Compre- into account varying abilities Students also received awards in academia, the arts and sports The feature here was the pre- hensive and the Vieux Fort Com- and interests. It is meant to salute for local spelling, reading, and were recognised. sentation of awards to the island prehensive Secondary, Campus B and recognize excellence and to singing competitions. At the primary school level, scholars of 2009, Eva Barnard received certificates. At the CXC negate the seeming appreciation the top performing students and An important feature of this and Alana Louisy. They were level, Ciceron Secondary School and tolerance for mediocrity in schools in the 2009 Common year’s ceremony was the recogni- presented with trophies by the received a trophy for the Most our Saint Lucian society.

The top performers were as follows: The Awards Ceremony also recognised top athletes Subject Name School Division Name School Applied Sciences Delana Alexander Entrepot Secondary School English A Zakahia Polius St.Joseph’s Convent Junior Male Larry Edward Castries Comprehensive Secondary School English A Carline Ismael St.Joseph’s Comvent English B Zakahria Polius St.Joseph’s Convent Junior Female Shannick Leonce Ciceron Secondary Mathematics Zakahria Polius St.Joseph’s Convent Senior Male Shem Edward Clendon Mason Memorial Mathematics Travon Cooman Vieux Fort Comprehensive Campus B Natural Sciences Kaela Gerald St.Joseph’s Convent Senior Female Makeba Alcide Sir Arthur Lewis Community College Theatre Arts Felipe Perez Leon Hess Comprehensive Modern Languages Lena Taupier St.Joseph’s Convent Technical subjects Wendell Satney Castries Comprehensive Secondary Visual Arts Darnell Lacan St. Mary’s College Short Story Khalil Arrindell St .Joseph’s Convent Physical Education Arthur Eugene Choiseul Secondary School

Musical interlude by Anse La Ray String Ensemble Principal of the St. Joseph’s Convent Sir Arthur Lewis Community College receives an award from Prime Minister King Top Performer (DTEMS) Karen Piper

Common Entrance top performer Awardee for secondary school singing Renita Shivnauph now a student of competition Tae-anya Preville of the Ministry official 2009 retiree Consuelo Dupal - 2009 winner of the St. Joseph’s Convent seventh Day Adventist Academy Barthelemy Baptiste Caribbean Teen Talent competition Saturday January 30, 2010 Page 9

he board and man- the night, from Mrs. An- also honored on the night. agement of St. Jude drewna Henry. Several Employees were THospital held its an- Henry Acting CEO, Hon- also recognized for a range nual employees awards orable Senator Guy May- of academic achievements ceremony on Saturday ers – Minister for Home during the year. December 12, 2009 under Affairs et al, Mrs. Orratia The awards ceremony the theme “Overcoming Dendow – Bullen Board was highlighted by a spe- challenges from the ash- member acting in place of cial quadrille dance put on es and restoring a solid Mr. Percival McDonald, by a group of staff mem- foundation to care for our Chairman of the Board and bers led by Dr. Sylvestre nation”. Dr. , parlia- Francois– Internist. The event was organized mentary representative for Several staff members by a special committee Vieux Fort South. were recipients of special chaired by Mrs. Cherianna The addresses for the awards and recognition for Philip Assistant Nursing night ended with the main Director, who was ably their commitment and ded- address being delivered by assisted by Ms. Christina ication to providing service Mr. Sean Auguste – Country Charlery Hospital Purchas- at St. Jude Hospital. Manager for Lime, which Donations can be made to the ing Manager. is St. Jude Hospital’s main The highlight of the evening were the awards following bank Accounts: The activity started telecommunications pro- handed out, by Senator off with a church service vider. The addresses were Guy Mayers, to the heroes which commenced at ap- followed by a solo musical 1. Bank of Saint Lucia, Decentralized Disaster proximately 4:00pm. Ms. of the St. Jude Hospital fire performance from Ms. Sher- Germaine Isaac, Assistant of September 9, 2009 and line Poleon – Staff Nurse. Preparedness Account, Account # 901029840 Accountant, served as a slide presentation docu- animator for the service Awards were handed menting St. Jude Hospital which was highlighted out to staff of the hospital history before, during and 2. First National Bank, Disaster Relief Fund, Ac- by a spiritual and uplift- who had given a minimum after the fire. count # 6002153 ing sermon delivered by of ten years service and in- Special thanks went out Pastor Johnson Frederick, to all members of the pub- creasing every five ears.y of the Seventh Day Ad- lic who had rendered sup- Ten (10) employees re- 3. RBTT Caribbean Limited, Account # 7076300 ventist Church, a special port and provided assis- ceived awards for giving song sung by Mr. Tim tance to Management and ten (10) years service, two Henry, a duet by Ms. Staff of the hospital during 4. First Caribbean International Bank - National Shalamar Alphonse and received for fifteen (15) this horrible event. Ms. Tisha Nelson – Staff years, four for twenty (20) Emergency Fund, Account # 02-1804460 The evening ended Nurses and a musical years, four for twenty five with all invited guests, rendition from the flute of (25) years, six for thirty (30) awardees, staff and visitors Dr. Mervin Mark, of the years and two for thirty 5. Royal Bank of , Disaster Emergency, sitting to enjoy a fine din- St. Jude Hospital Emer- five (35) years. ner, prepared by Coconut Account # 1002005 gency Department. Three staff members – Bay Resort, Ladera Resort, The Awards ceremony Boniface Aldonza, Sandra and Kimatri Hotel, while immediately followed the Williams and Percia Marie- being serenaded by the 6. Bank of Nova Scotia Bank, Account # church service and was atte, who retired during the sound of sweet steelband 2001483 punctuated by addresses, year with a combined nine- music provided by Hanco alluding to the theme for ty (90) years of service, were Harmonites of Vieuxfort. Saint Lucia Concludes Another Successful Nobel Laureate Week

n 1992 St. Lucian Poet/ With the award of the 2010 marks the 17th home and abroad.” celebration of the Week. Playwright Derek Wal- prestigious prize to Derek Nobel Laureate Week has Walcott, then Prime Minister Derek Walcott is 80 and Icott was awarded the come to be the opening ac- Sir John Compton, formed a the late Sir Arthur would Nobel Prize for Literature. tivities of Independence. In Thirteen years earlier, in committee under the chair- have been 95. It is 31 years 2010, Saint Lucians observe 1979, another St. Lucian manship of Hunter J. Fran- since Sir Arthur received 31 years of Independence. - Sir Arthur Lewis had be- cois, to plan and organize the his prize and 18 since the come the first person in the first Nobel laureate Week in Honorable Derek Walcott In 2009 Sir Arthur Lewis English-speaking Caribbe- January 1993. January 23rd, was honored by the Swed- lectures and Derek Walcott an to win the Nobel Prize, the birth date shared by both ish Academy. lectures delivered in earlier Derek Walcott Sir Arthur Lewis which was awarded to him laureates, was declared No- This year’s theme was years, were published in awarded the Nobel Prize awarded the Nobel Prize for Economics. bel laureate Day. “Celebrating excellence at two volumes each. for Literature for Economics Page 10 Saturday January 30, 2010 31st Independence CELEBRATION PLANNING UNDERWAY

The planning process for the commemoration of our nation’s 31st anniversary of Indepen- dence has moved into top gear. A number of meetings have been held and the committee responsible has developed a draft plan, which has been sub- mitted to Cabinet for approval. The current committee falls under the chairpersonship of the Minister of Education and Culture Hon. Arsene James and comprises some twenty (20) persons who represent a range of stakeholders and sec- tors within the Government system and the wider commu- Members of the Independence Committee at one of their planning meetings nity. The range of sectors rep- resented include: education, would include activities such as: Pli tion works at the St Jude Hospital significant events. Detailed in- youth and sports, culture, tour- Bel Vilaj, Pli Bel Lekol, Pli Bel Kon- will also be one of the main events formation on our Nation’s 31st ism, agriculture as well as the min, Ecumenical Services, Nation- which would form part of the In- Independence Celebration will Home Coming 2010 Committee al Colours Day, Tribute to Promi- dependence Calendar be provided to the public fol- and the Office of the Governor nent Saint Lucians and the staging The commemoration of Inde- lowing approval of proposals General. of the traditional Independence pendence anniversary this year submitted to Cabinet. Lets all Some of the highlights of this Parade and Rally. The Ground promises to be an exciting expe- look forward to grand 31st In- year’s Independence celebration Breaking Ceremony for construc- rience with many innovative and dependence Celebrations, 2010. Saturday January 30, 2010 Page 11 New Darling Road Vending Facility Completed

room now for an ice-cream par- The new units will be open for lour, a facility never before avail- able in the area. rent to house any vendor, from Mr. Louis Fernandes said the facility now fully equipped with those selling arts and craft to running water and electricity meets the highest standards for flowers, paintings and farine and food preparation and vending and is an asset to the area and the farine products city in general. While ongoing vendors were displaced to facilitate the erec- he bottom of Darling Road, tification process was the recent tion of the new facility, he added leading onto Jeremie Street revamping of the bottom of the that he is not certain whether the is looking more beautiful to- Darling road, where makeshift T former vendors will return to the day than it did some months ago. food vending huts and coconut new construction. That’s all thanks to an ongoing vendors once stood. “Of course the people who beautification and enhancement In October 2009, the CCC re- project being undertaken by the located the seven food vendors were there before will get a first Castries City Council (CCC) that to a nearby street, building them shot at the new facility. However, seeks to uplift the façade of the temporary sheds from which if they choose not to return, the island’s capital Castries and add they could continue their busi- facility will be up for grabs to some aesthetics to the shopping ness. Following this, work on anyone who would like to rent Honourable Richard Frederick and eating and general experi- reconstructing the area began in the units.” Minister for Physical Development, Housing, Urban Renewal, ence of city-goers. earnest. If you’re interested in renting Local Government and the Environment, addressing the gathering Deputy Town Clerk Vaughn After 90 days of intensive one of the new Darling Road stalls, you can make enquiries at Louis-Fernandes explained that work and $500,000 to finance ity is the first of a bigger proj- He said the new units will be the Castries City Council office or it is an ongoing project to beau- the works, a seven-unit beauti- ect that will see some 50 such open for rent to house any ven- call them at 452-2121. tify and improve standards in ful, new, crisp and clean vending units being erected in and dors, from those selling arts and Castries. facility was erected and is now Mr. Louis Fernandes also around Castries before the end craft to flowers, paintings and The latest phase of this beau- ready for business. There is also said that this vending facil- of the year. farine and farine products. Page 12 Saturday January 30, 2010

DCA REQUIREMENTS FOR 2010 Taiwan & ICDF RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Scholarship Program Now On

The 2010 Taiwan & ICDF scholarship programs will be accept- ing St. Lucian applicants from February 1 to February 26, 2010. The Taiwan Scholarship program organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the scholarship programs organized by the International Coopera- tion and Development Fund (ICDF) seeks to enhance educa- tional exchanges between St. Lucia and Taiwan and provides an opportunity for people who would like to experience a different culture and study abroad for a Bachelor, Master or PhD degree. Taiwan has been one of the leading countries in many indus- tries such as Information Technology and semi-conductor in- dustries and has been trying to contribute to the international community based on its strong hi-tech and economic capabili- Many Saint Lucians are interested in owning a piece of their beautiful island and are looking into ties. the possibility of building homes. There are 103 universities and 62 colleges in Taiwan and the Before that is done, there are basic requirements that must be met when applying to build from the higher educational institutions offer plentiful opportunities for Development Control Authority. Saint Lucians to study in different areas. The following are the basic requirements for the submission of Residential Applications: For the Taiwan Scholarship Program it is necessary for every Three (3) sets of architectural drawings done to scale to include: recipient to study Mandarin Chinese during the first year; if the first year academic result is satisfactory then the recipient can • Site Plan indicating minimum setbacks apply for Undergraduate, Master or Postgraduate programs of- • Floor Plan fered by the universities. • Elevations (minimum three (3)) The total duration of this scholarship program is a maximum • Sections (minimum one (1)) of 5 years. • Roof Plan Anyone interested in this program should deliver a complet- • Foundation Plan ed application form, a copy of secondary school or higher edu- • Details (Roof Fixing, Foundation) cation certificate and transcript authenticated by the Ministry of • Details (if relevant) Education & Culture or relevant authorities, and two reference Floor Framing plan, Columns Section, Longitudinal and Cross Sections of Beam (where letters. They should also bring along a Police Clearance Letter to applicable) the Embassy during the period February 1 - 26, 2010. Details: Stair case, Water tank, pool, retaining wall (where applicable) Once an applicant is granted a Taiwan Scholarship, they will All structural drawings are to be certified by a locally registered engineer (where applicable) be provided with a single flight ticket to Taipei and NT$30,000 living allowance (about US$900, depending on the exchange • One (1) recent (within the last 6 months) copy of the Land Register obtained at the Land rate) per month to study in Taiwan. Registry Department Successful applicants will also be provided with housing, tu- • Notarized letter of consent from land owner (if applicable) ition, credit fees, insurance, textbook costs and a monthly living • Letter of demolition (if applicable) allowance to study in Taiwan. • One (1) copy Lodged Survey Plan obtained at the Lands & Survey Department There are 16 Master and 3 PhD programs on offer to Saint • One (1) copy of Location Plan (topographic sheet) with site clearly shown obtained at the Lucia for the 2010 ICDF Scholarship Programs Lands & Survey Department Please note that 2 application forms need to be completed i.e. • One (1) copy LRTP map extract with site clearly shown obtained at the Lands & Survey the university application form relevant to the applied program Department and the ICDF Scholarship application form. • Two (2) Building Forms obtained at the Lands & Survey Department (completed and duly University forms can be downloaded from the university signed) websites while the ICDF form must be filled out online. Please • Public Health Approval and/or WASCO Approval (where applicable). print this and sign it before submitting to the Embassy. The application requirements and fees are currently under review and will be posted in the Saint Both Taiwan and ICDF Scholarship annual award periods are Lucia Gazette from September 1 through August 31 of the following year. If recipients fail to arrive in Taiwan to study during this period Applicants may inquire on the status of an application fourteen (14) days after registration. their award status will be cancelled and cannot be extended for To facilitate the ease of reference to the applications, applicants are guided as follows: another year. • Always refer to the application reference number issued at the Front Desk Please note that Saint Lucia Government officials who are in- • Always carry along the original acknowledgement slip when visiting the DCA office on terested in the scholarship programs should summit their ap- matters referring to the application plications to the Training Division of the Ministry of the Public • The decision of the application will be mailed via the address provided on the application, Service & Human Resource Development. however drawings are to be collected at the office of the DCA Different deadlines might apply to some of the ICDF Scholar- ship programs for Government officials, please check with the Decisions on applications are posted at the following locations: Training Division. • Front desk of the DCA office • The Saint Lucia Gazette available at www.slugovprintery.com/ A briefing session about the Taiwan / ICDF 2010 Scholarship programs will be held at the St Lucia National ICT Center at • Physical Planning web site: www.physicalplanning.gov.lc 3:00PM on Thursday, 28 January 28, 2010.

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