Saint Lucia No. 121. Saturday, January 21, 2006

A publication of the Department of Information Services

“ or this year and un- til such time that the FGeneral Election is an- nounced, the Government will focus on six (6) priorities. Priority number one is to se- cure further reductions in crime; Better health care and Priority number two is to in- employment for babonneau - page 2 tensify efforts to reduce unem- ployment; Priority number three is to speed up implementation of the Universal Health Care System, the UHC; Priority number four is to complete preparations for the Cricket World Cup, 2007; Priority number fi ve is to complete the drive to universal secondary education, to provide every child a place in a second- Energy Task Force discuss Petro- ary school. Caribe Agreement with Priority number six is to en- Venezuelans - page 3 sure that Saint Lucia conducts its electoral business without reproach and Saint Lucian par- ticipate in elections that are free, fair, and free from fear and in- timidation.” Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony

Exciting times and moments of decision - pages 4, 5 & 6

OECS celebrates 25 years of unity - page 7

Among the major achievements for 2005 were the repairing and rehabilitation of roads. According to Prime Minister Kenny Anthony “drivers and commuter travelling between Vieux-Fort and Soufriere were pleased that the new South West Coast Road was fi nally completed last year.” Commuters in the north western communities have also been moving around in comfort. In the above photograph, a section of the Babonneau road was rehabilitated during the past year. Many Dennery Hospital - Major review other roads in the area the Grand Riviere/La Croix road were also completed. underway - page 7

“Take 2 ” - A fi fteen minute news review of the week. Government Notebook A fresh news package daily Every Friday at 6.15 p.m. on NTN, Cablevision Channel 2. on all local radio stations 2 Saint Lucia Saturday, Januray 21, 2006

munities. In this regard, WASCO con- nected, free-of-charge 25 households in the Talvern area, whilst the distribu- tion system to Boguis and Des Barras were upgraded. Through the People’s Republic of China’s Chinese Cooperation Fund, provides a grant of $50,000 toward poverty alleviation in select communi- ties. Through this initiative foot paths will be constructed in the Ti Conway area of Fond Assau at a cost of $25,000. Also approved for implementation is a community-managed, locally-chlo- rinated water storage and treatment project for the small Ravine Go/Lanfor community in Chassin. Residents of Chassin and indeed all of Fond Assau and its surrounding ar- eas have reason to look toward 2006 with renewed optimism. The sched- uled opening of the Aerial Tram proj- ect early in the new year will result in employment for over 75 persons; especially youth, with the majority Hon. Felix Finnisterre tours projects with technical team naturally coming from the immediate

inister for Communica- Education mitigation projects aimed at amelio- tion Works Transport and Under the World Bank funded Di- rating the living conditions of many MPublic Utilities and Mem- saster Preparedness Project, the roof communities island-wide were under- ber of Parliament for Babonneau of the Fond Assau Primary School was taken. Specific to Babonneau was the says much work has been done in the replaced. Under the same project, the construction of two causeways at Des communities of the north east of the Babonneau Primary School will be Ablon in Boguis, and the Floris in Ti island to improve social and econom- similarly repaired, for which the ten- Morne. Also under this project a num- ic conditions of the people. Report- dering process is currently in train. ber of other small drainage works were ing to the nation during his Christ- Meanwhile, we look forward to the completed. To the hard working farm- ers in the Marquis River valley, relief is on the way. The long-awaited, long- promised replacement bridge has been designed and approval for tendering by way of a ‘no objection’ is being await- ed from the World Bank. In the area of rural Electrification All communities have benefited under the rural electrification programme. How- ever, particularly gratifying is the electri- fication for the farms in the Poix Doux area. For decades, the efforts of farmers at diversification have been frustrated for Aerial Tram under construction lack of power. Thanks to the generosity of LUCELEC new poultry and pig rear- neighborhoods of Babonneau. Dur- ing ventures have began. ing construction the playing field was Water supply damaged and the youth were denied its The completion of the Hill 20 proj- use for some six (6) months. We thank ect to replace the 6 inch raw water line the sportsmen for their cooperation and with an 8 inch PVC pipe should result understanding and we look forward to in a more reliable supply for the wider the speedy and complete restitution of Improved water treatment and distribution North-east Castries and Babonneau ar- the grounds by the Aerial Tram Com- eas. However, domestic connections pany.” mas message for 2005, Hon. Felix completion of the designs and tender- and the distribution network need to be The full text of the Minister’s address Finnistere spoke of improvements ing for the new (8) classroom block upgraded to ensure an adequate supply is available of the Government of Saint in education, health care, roads and at the Fond Assau Primary School. If to our numerous under-serviced com- Lucia website www.stlucia.gov.lc water supply. The following is an ed- all goes according to plan, the ground ited version of the Ministers address, breaking ceremony should take place which was broadcast on local radio in the first quarter of 2006. and television. With respect to Road improvement Health Care The major reconstruction works on In the area of health care, we opened the La Croix/Grande Riviere road is now the La Guerre Health Post - thanks to significantly complete. The Fond Assau/ the Poverty Reduction Fund. We also Chassin and La Croix/Des Barras roads, re-commissioned the newly refurbished under the French funded Tertiary Roads Babonneau Health Centre, funded by Programme are at an advanced stage and the CDB and BNTF. Currently, there nearing completion. Minor repairs have is the ongoing refurbishment of the been undertaken on a number of other Fond Assau Health Centre under the roads. However, it is hoped that in the new year, major repairs will be carried Economic Reconstruction Programme out on the Babonneau main road, the Ti funded by the CDB/GOSL. Completion Chemin/Fond Assau(short cut) and the is expected early in 2006. The People Cacoa/Girard Roads. and Government of Cuba responded generously to the improvement of the Small Mitigation eyesight of approximately 100 persons Under the 2nd World Bank Disaster within the Babonneau Constituency. Mitigation project a number of small The La Guerre Health Post Saturday, January 21, 2006 Saint Lucia 3 once they are in the interest of the peo- ple of St. Lucia.” The Prime Minister pointed out that, “contrary to what Sir John thinks and says, there are cities and states in the United States of America that have made use of the Venezuelan of- fer to make cheaper fuel available to he Government of St. Lucia citizens.” He asked: “If US cities can remains deeply interested in make use of the Venezuelan oil initia- Tthe PetroCaribe Agreement. tive, why then shouldn’t St. Lucia en- That’s the word from Prime Min- joy the benefits of cooperation with and ister Dr Kenny D. Anthony. The assistance from Venezuela?” Prime Minister says the Govern- The Prime Minister indicated that ment “remains interested” in the of- St. Lucia would soon be engaging the fer by Venezuela of cheaper fuel, not- Venezuelans in further discussions on withstanding the recent criticism of the agreement. He pointed out that “the the Venezuelan initiative by former Government’s Task force on Energy Prime Minister and Leader of the Conservation has been meeting on the Opposition United Workers Party PetroCaribe initiative and I am hoping (UWP), Sir John Compton. that the committee will be in a position Sir John recently claimed that the Ven- later this month to hold discussions ezuelan initiative, which has been em- with the Government of Venezuela on braced by other Caricom member-states, Fuel is the major input in energy production in Saint Lucia the agreement.” may upset the United States and result in Prime Minister Anthony noted that punitive actions against them. He also ar- says Sir John’s statements regarding present-day political realities.” He “St. Lucia is not alone” in embracing gued that closer Caricom relations with the initiative, pointing out that “several Cuba could also upset Washington. Venezuela and Cuba’s relations with said: “The Government of St. Lucia Caricom “not only reek of the Cold will never surrender its sovereignty to other Caricom member-states have also However, Prime Minister Anthony War, but are also inconsistent with any country. We will pursue initiatives, been making use of the facility.”

rime Minister Dr Kenny D. An- economies by the volatility of oil prices, thony has challenged the Gov- while we all have to purchase fuel from Pernment of Trinidad & Tobago Trinidad & Tobago at world market pric- to summon the will to do more to offer es.” He said there was an alternative to the better fuel alternatives to its Caricom present position adopted by the Trinidad & neighbours, rather than dissuade them Tobago Prime Minister. from taking up Venezuela’s offer of Said the St. Lucia Prime Minister: cheaper oil through the PetroCaribe ini- “Rather than Trinidad & Tobago suggest- tiative. Trinidad & Tobago’s Prime Min- ing that they are incapable, or that they are ister Patrick Manning, who is the new unable to do anything about the high prices Chairman of Caricom, last week said in we are forced to pay, they should rethink Major decisions ahead for CARICOM leaders Guyana that while the Venezuelan ini- that position. “Notwithstanding that the oil tiative had “distinct negatives” for his industry in Trinidad & Tobago is owned by He said he knew his Trinidad & Tobago taken advantage of the PetroCaribe Agree- country, it could be even more danger- private sector interests, the Government counterpart “has been a great friend of the ment “to provide cheaper fuel available to ous for Caricom states seeking fuel sup- can work out special arrangements for the region, his government has advanced the their citizens.” Consequently, the Saint Lu- plies on soft terms. OECS and the rest of Caricom.” Dr Antho- cause of integration in the region, he is cia Prime Minister asked: “If US cities can Mr Manning also threatened that should ny explained the rationale behind Trinidad committed and he has given generously.” make use of the Venezuela oil initiative, the thirteen Caricom member-states that & Tobago’s Caricom neighbours seeking Prime Minister Anthony continued, “on why shouldn’t St. Lucia enjoy the benefits have indicated interest in the Venezuelan other alternatives. He said: “These coun- this petroleum issue, I don’t think Saint of cooperation with and assistance from initiative cease buying oil from Trinidad tries have been driven to accept the Petro- Lucia can agree with him, because I do be- Venezuela?” He also noted that “Saint Lu- & Tobago to enter into an agreement that Caribe agreement, not just because it’s at- lieve that if government really wants to do cia is not alone, as several other Caricom eventually falters, Trinidad & Tobago may tractive, but because Trinidad & Tobago is it, they can create an arrangement that will states are also making use of the facility”, not be willing to do business with them. not providing any alternative to them.” ease the plight of these islands. They must St. Lucia is one of the 13 Caricom Said PM Manning: “If ever countries wish According to the St. Lucia Prime Minis- summon the will to do so.” member-states that have indicated interest to come back, they may very well find ter: “It is not easy to understand why the av- Last week, Prime Minister Anthony also in the PetroCaribe Agreement. Barbados themselves in a position where Trinidad & erage driver in the Eastern Caribbean must restated Saint Lucia’s interest in the Petro- and Trinidad & Tobago did not sign the Tobago has no products to supply.” pay between $10 and $11 per gallon of gas, Caribe agreement after it was attacked by a agreement in Puerto Cruz, Venezuela, last Asked by a local reporter for a response when it only costs about $5 or $6 in Trini- former St. Lucia Prime Minister. year, but Jamaica has proceeded to imple- to the Trinidad & Tobago Prime Minister’s dad & Tobago – especially in the context of Responding to claims by former Prime ment it. Under the agreement, provisions comments, the St. Lucia Prime Minister a Single Market and Economy, where there Minister Sir John Compton that by embrac- are made for financing mechanisms and noted: “Prime Minister Manning’s com- is a general expectation of equality of treat- ing the agreement with Venezuela, St. Lu- compensation, which include long-term ments are consistent with what he said at ment across the region.” Dr Anthony was cia and other Caricom member-states may and short-term financing, deferred pay- the Caricom Summit here last July – that of the view that “Trinidad & Tobago must anger Washington, PM Anthony reiterated ment and energy efficiency. According to he realises that there will be challenges do some very serious thinking.” H e that “St. Lucia is a sovereign country” and its terms, Venezuela is also offering tech- for Trinidad & Tobago.” Prime Minister said: “They cannot have their cake and eat that its Government “reserves the right to nical cooperation to support the creation Anthony added, “the fact is that he must it. They cannot have a captive market and pursue initiatives, once they are in the in- of state agencies in countries not pos- understand that these countries are reel- and not reach out to help them in their hour terest of the people of Saint Lucia.” sessing qualified state institutions for this ing under pressure brought to bear on their of need. It simply will not do.” He noted that several US cities had purpose.

not have a National ID Card, then you ID,” Mr. Raggie said. would be able to access the Universal The new, free of charge, identification Healthcare which will be introduce. So it is card will is embedded with additional se- Chief Elections Officer Carson Raggie that will take place so as to enable the de- entirely up to the person. If the person do curity features to combat identify theft. is again encouraging the general public to partment to either get information other not want to cooperate, then at some stage The card holder will also be able to travel cooperate with enumerators of an ongoing than what you have provided them with or will have to come back to the office or to freely to countries within CARICOM us- house to house enumeration exercise. put you where you ought to be but the only a registration centre to obtain that national ing that document. Mr. Raggie says though some mem- way your name will be deleted is when you bers of the general public may con- have died or when you have left the coun- sider some of the questions as being try for the period stipulated by law,” Mr. strange, the information is important Raggie said. for the revision of the electoral reg- He says persons who refuse the enumer- ister and registration for access to ators are doing so at their own risk as they health care services under the Univer- will not be issued with the new National sal Health Care Programme, when it ID Cards, which will become vital in the comes on stream. new CSME environment and for access to “Registration is voluntary in particu- services under the UHC. lar registration to vote, and if you do you “So if you do not wish to apply for that do not wish to be registered or to be veri- national ID Card it is totally up to you. fied there are procedures and processes When the opportunity comes and you do 4 Saint Lucia Saturday, Januray 21, 2006 Saturday, January 21, 2006 Saint Lucia 5

NEW YEAR’S ADDRESS TO THE NATION BY DR. THE HONOURABLE KENNY D. ANTHONY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER FOR FINANCE, ECONOMIC ment and nation. Today, I am pleased to report Market and Economy created by the Caribbean In addition, the 20-inch pipeline to Gros Is- FFAIRS NTERNATIONAL INANCIAL that we have been able to register successes in Community (CARICOM). Here too, we have let was commissioned last year. Work has also A , I F each. some progress to report. began on a new 14-inch pipeline to take water Was Unemployment Reduced? Priority Num- Legislation has been introduced in Parlia- from the Gros Islet plant back to the communi- SERVICES AND INFORMATION ber One was to reduce unemployment. ment to remove discrimination between St. ties between Gros Islet and Castries. New wa- Unemployment, as you know, has been a Lucians and other Caricom nationals to create ter works have also been completed last year at JANUARY 16, 2006 stubborn problem. At long last, I am beginning the conditions for the Freedom of Movement of Grace/Woodlands in Vieux Fort North, as well to see a downward movement. factors inherent in the CSME. as at Hill 20 and Talverne. New tanks have also been installed at Desruisseaux. I indicated that Government would seek to re- Last year, the Ministry of Commerce, which duce unemployment by intensifying investment also has responsibility for matters pertaining The World Bank has also approved a US $7 million project and the Central Tenders Board ellow St. Lucians, as has become in tourism, encouraging more investments in to the trade aspects of the CSME, also began the Information Technology Sector, encourag- an ongoing public education drive aimed at in- has made the necessary land acquisitions to en- customary, around the middle of able expansion works which will double the ca- January each year, I report to you, ing self-employment through establishment of forming the population and related sectors of small businesses and expanding opportunities the issues involved. These measures took place pacity at the T.R. Theobalds plant at Ciceron. the citizens, on our achievements, The age-old bottlenecks in the Roseau Dam are Fprogress and failures of the year past. It is in public sector construction. One year later, against the background of the establishment by I am pleased to report that we did succeed in the Government of St. Lucia of a Special CSME also being removed to increase capacity and also an opportunity for me to outline the fl ow. broad development objectives for our nation encouraging signifi cantly more investments in Task Force. The Special CSME Task Force is in the current year. both the tourism and construction sectors, lead- principally responsible for engaging the various Priorities for 2006 ing to increased employment at all levels. sectors and fi ne-tuning of the required measures What then are our priorities for 2006? For Last year, in my New Year’s Address to the and mechanisms for our eventual entry into the nation, I identifi ed a number of priority areas According to Mr. Edwin St. Catherine, the this year and until such time that the General Director of Statistics and I quote him, “the new regional trading arrangements between Election is announced, the Government will fo- for our country. This year I would like to report member-states of Caricom. on what progress have been with regard to these main driver for the decline in the unemploy- cus on six (6) priorities. Priority number one is priority areas. I will commence by reporting on ment rate is growth in the number of employ- I know that some of you are uneasy about to secure further reductions in crime; Priority the performance of our economy. ment opportunities available in the hotels and the CSME. I understand the fears. I wish to Expanding health care - Impressions of the new hospital number two is to intensify efforts to reduce un- restaurants and the Construction Sector, with reassure you that this Government will jeal- employment; Priority number three is to speed Performance of our economy employment in hotels and restaurants skewed ously guard the patrimony of Saint Lucia. The up implementation of the Universal Health Preliminary data on the performance of the edition of the Revised Laws of St. Lucia was and prepare Saint Lucians in the various com- towards the employment of women by a factor CSME will widen our horizons as our nationals Care System, the UHC; Priority number four is Tourism grew in 2005 Saint Lucian economy up to year-end 2005, sug- of two women to every one man employed and will benefi ts from new rights and privileges in published and launched. Further, the curricu- munities as to what role they are perform to to complete preparations for the Cricket World gest strongly, that the country remained fi rmly a factor of six men to every one woman em- other member states. We must remember that lum at the Police Training Academy was im- make our hosting of the World Cup the most Cup, 2007; Priority number fi ve is to complete on its path of accelerated growth. Despite the ployed in the construction sector. The Hotels unless we are part of the CSME we cannot sell proved and a new Crown Prosecution Service successful ever. These roles ranged from pro- the drive to universal secondary education, troduce a night court, staffed by two additional sluggishness of the Agricultural Sector and in and Restaurants Sectors added approximately our exports to the region on equal terms with was introduced to improve the prosecution of viding entertainment to serving as volunteers. to provide every child a place in a secondary magistrates to hear traffi c offences. This initia- the cruise sub-sector, reduced arrivals of cruise 3, 500 persons, while the Construction Sector our CARICOM neighbours. criminals. The Interception of Communications The feed back from the communities so far has school; Priority number six is to ensure that tive will ease the burden of police offi cers who ships, all other major sectors of the economy added approximately 2,500 persons. While this St. Lucia will be present at the offi cial cer- Bill was also enacted last year, to strengthen the been very positive. On October 22, 2005, the Saint Lucia conducts its electoral business are compelled to waste valuable policing time expanded, leading local offi cials, as well as re- is a healthy development, it must be sustained emony launching the CSME in Jamaica on ability of the police to keep track of the more Local Organizing Committee held a very suc- without reproach and Saint Lucian participate during the normal course of the day. gional and international institutions to forecast since the situation can be reversed due to the January 30th, 2006. Our presence there will be sophisticated criminals and their activities. cessful Road Show. And on December 5, 2005, in elections that are free, fair, and free from fear We have inherited a dilapidated and outdated economic growth of approximately fi ve per cent Prime Minister of Saint Lucia cyclical nature of construction activity and the to reaffi rm our commitment to the new regional I regret that the establishment of the Forensic the volunteer programme was launched. It is and intimidation. Central Police Station in the Capital which has (5%) for 2005. This will be the highest growth Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony fi ckle nature of the Tourism Sector. my hope that the benefi ts of the volunteer pro- rate Saint Lucia will achieve since 1992, some gramme will instil into all Saint Lucians a great- For the fi rst time, quarterly employment fourteen years ago. er sense of volunteerism which will redound to statistics for the 2nd and 3rd quarter of 2005 Expansion In Tourism - Developments in million; and (d) A tripling of funds disbursed by the greater good of our Society. are indicating that the numbers of persons em- the tourism industry have been catalytic. Visitor local fi nancial institutions for fi nancing com- ployed in the Hotels and Restaurants Sector has Repairing and Rehabilitating of Roads arrivals for the eleven month period from Janu- mercial and residential construction to $93 surpassed the Agriculture Sector, recording in - Priority Number Five last year was to inten- ary to the end of November 2005 featured sig- million, of which commercial construction at- the third quarter a total of 8,980 persons em- sify our efforts to repair and rehabilitate our nifi cant increases of 21.8% to a total of 23,698 tracted $54 million. ployed when compared to 7,460. The Construc- road infrastructure. In this regard, drivers and with respect to yacht passengers, and a further In 2006, construction activity will be acceler- tion Sector employed approximately as many commuters travelling between Vieux Fort and 6.8% to a total of 290,047 stay over visitors. ated as the Government Public Sector Invest- persons as did the Agriculture Sector in the 3rd Soufriere were pleased that the South West While data for December is not yet available, ment Programme unfolds. Quarter of 2005”. Coast Road was fi nally completed last year. there is every reason to believe that St. Lucia Merchandise Trade - The buoyancy in the In addition, several roads were repaired under surpassed that important milestone of 300,000 economy was refl ective in merchandise trade. Today, several new tourism investments have the Tertiary Roads Programme. In the case of stay over visitors in 2005 as arrivals typically The value of merchandise trade imports grew taken off. In the past year, we have seen the the Castries-Gros-Islet Highway construction averages in excess of 20,000 in the month of by 12 per cent to $522.8 million. Unfortunately opening of the new Coco Palm resort at Rodney will commence this quarter. The rehabilitation December. exports contracted by 8.5 per cent largely as a Bay and the renovated Coconut Bay resort in of the East Coast Highway is expected to pick However, US home porting and constraints in result of a reduction in the export of bananas. Vieux Fort. The Plantation at Cotton Bay and up momentum. Several new bridges were also domestic berthing capacity restrained the over- There were signifi cant increases in all three Discovery at Marigot Bay are both about to constructed last year as part of the road reha- all performance of the cruise sector by 17.5% categories of imports; namely consumer goods come on stream; and new construction works bilitation project. Because of the heavy rainfall up to the end of November 2005. by 55 per cent to $288.1 million; intermediate have started on the Landings at Rodney Bay, in what was the busiest hurricane year on re- Increase In Manufacturing Output - The goods ($131.2 million) mainly on the strength the new Bay Gardens Suites (also at Rodney cord, several major and tertiary roads that were value of manufacturing output from January to of the rising price of oil and capital goods Bay) and on the new Le Paradis at Praslin on earmarked to have started were unavoidably de- September 2005 alone, exclusive of textile and ($103.6 million) led by increases in machinery the island’s East Coast. layed. However, weather permitting, work will paper products, is estimated to have increased and transport equipment. At the same time, several existing hotels be- resume. In fact work has resumed on several of by 7.7% to $91.7 million. This is an important Improved Fiscal Performance - On the fi s- gan expanding last year. These include the origi- these roads. It is expected that 2006 will be an- nal Bay Gardens Hotel at Rodney Bay, Le Sport development, as this sector prepares to face the cal side, taxes from International Trade and tax- other busy year for road repairs and rehabilita- Tourism construction projects - reducing unemployment challenges of operating in a more competitive es on income led to an improvement in current Villas at Cap Estate, Cara Suites at La Pansee Improvement to the drainage at Beausejour for cricket in 2007 tion island wide. environment. revenue by 17 per cent to $304.2 million. This in Castries and Jalousie Plantation in Soufriere Preparing Bananas for Tariff - Only Re- – which changed hands and went under new, lo- Buoyancy In Construction - Unquestion- increase is consistent with domestic economic initiative. Once all issues are resolved, St. Lucia Laboratory has been delayed by design issues, gime - Priority Number Six for 2005 year was Securing further reductions in crime become dysfunctional. Government will focus cal management last year. ably, a construction boom is well underway. expansion and improved administrative effi - will be ready to join the CSME in the fi rst quar- but I expect all issues will be resolved shortly. to prepare the Banana Industry for the inevi- its attention on the rehabilitation and refurbish- Altogether, the total number of investments I will now focus on Priority Number One The expansion was largely private sector led, ciency. Effective control measures led to rela- ter of this year. table transition to a tariff-only trading regime. ment of the Central Police Station as a matter in our tourism plant announced in 2005 have Getting Ready for Cricket World Cup - I am aware that the issue of crime is the most as public sector construction slackened in the tively fl at current expenditure of $249.4 million In preparation for this eventuality, Government of urgency in the next few months as a tempo- amounted to way over one billion EC dollars. Any Respite in Crime? Crime reduction was 2007 - The fourth priority outlined in last Year’s burning issue among Saint Lucians. Indeed, course of the year. and resulted in a considerable improvement of has on one hand, continued to provide assistance rary measure. In the meantime, plans will be This is a remarkable show of confi dence on the the third priority outlined in my New Year’s Ad- New Year’s Address was to meet the challenges it is fair to say that while Saint Lucians credit Private sector construction activity was par- the current balance of $54.9 million by the close to banana farmers and their organisations. On drawn up for the conversion of the existing ticularly buoyant in 2005, owing to increased part of local and foreign investors in our coun- dress in 2005. As you are aware, a number of of hosting the Cricket World Cup in 2007. In the Government for its efforts in stabilising of June 2005. However, the level of Capital initiatives were introduced to combat crime and this regard, several initiatives were undertaken. the other hand, Government has also intensifi ed our economy, promoting education and sports, Police Headquarters into a modern, functional confi dence in the economy. This is evidenced try and our tourism industry. Similarly, the Gov- its diplomatic efforts within the World Trade Expenditure exceeded the current surplus and criminality. These included the recruitment of The local organizing committee in 2005 relo- strengthening governance and attacking poverty Headquarters Complex that will include a new by the following indicators drawn from the fi rst ernment of St. Lucia has to date awarded incen- Organisation (WTO) along with other African led to an overall defi cit. more police offi cers. It is the intention of the cated its headquarters to Castries and appointed they are generally disappointed that the efforts Central Police Station. half of the year. (a) Investment expenditure in tives to 24 local and foreign investors to expand Pacifi c and Caribbean member-states to secure Meeting our priorities Government to increase the membership of the additional staff to ensure proper organisational to contain and reduce crime have not yielded Initiatives to reduce unemployment tourism plant of $60 million; (b)Investment in accommodation for the Cricket World Cup. To a better deal for our farmers than what is being Royal Saint Lucia Police Force by year end to preparedness and execution of programmes is- greater results. It is clear that the Police and the telecommunications equipment and plant of When I addressed you at this time last year, these will be added Bread and Breakfast Ac- demanded by Latin America and what is being Earlier, I spoke of the inroads we have made over a 1,000 for the fi rst time in its history. land-wide. Government must redouble efforts to convince $17.1 million; (c) A 7.1 per cent increase in the the emphasis was on the priorities for 2005. In- commodation Projects approved for the thou- offered by the European Union (EU). Given the into unemployment. I intend to continue the The Programme for the Recovery of Illegal our citizens that we can win the fi ght against value of imported construction material to $43 deed, I had set seven priorities for the Govern- sands of visitors expected here for the Cricket Early in the year, the Local Organising Com- vicissitudes of international trade, our banana broad mix of policies the Government pursued Weapons was another initiative introduced by crime. World Cup next year. mittee got an important moral boost when it farmers can only continue to hope for a better in 2005. the Government to combat crime. In 2005, the I propose to invite parliament to revisit all The developments just mentioned have also hosted Dr Ali Bacher, who spearheaded South deal on the world market. There are, however, two major initiatives Programme recorded a measure of success with Africa’s hosting of the ICC’s Cricket World offences involving fi rearms and stiffen the pen- resulted in increased confi dence on the part of Despite the many challenges that confronted which the Government proposes to undertake a total of 203 illegal guns being removed off Cup. Dr. Bacher commended the Local Orga- alties in respect of the possession of unlawful the airlines, which have again began to focus the banana industry in 2005, Saint Lucia con- this year. the streets and from the hands of criminals. The nising Committee for the quality and level of fi rearms and the use of such fi rearms in the on increasing airlift to St. Lucia. Last year, tinued to be the major producer of bananas in Firstly, the Government is aware that unem- number of guns removed off the streets this year preparations undertaken to date for the hosting commission of crime. we were able to secure new daily fl ights to and the Windward Islands. In 2005 Saint Lucia ployment is highest amongst young people, es- from Atlanta by Delta Airlines; the expected re- as a result of the programme is four times greater the third biggest sporting event in the world. I will grant approval to train a further sixty than the numbers retrieved in the two years pre- produced more than half of the total production police offi cers this year to increase the strength pecially persons between fi fteen and twenty four turn of Air Jamaica with three weekly fl ights to Similarly, following successful site visits by from the Windwards grouping. With the advent years of age. In addition to the initiatives cur- and from New York as of next month; and di- ceding the implementation of the programme, the delegations from the International Crick- of the Special Service Unit from 45 to 100 when an average of between 40 and 50 guns of the tariff only regime, the prospect for the men.’ rently being undertaken by the National Skills rect fl ights from Manchester by Virgin Atlantic et Council last year, the Beausejour Cricket banana industry remains worrying. Development Centre, Government will fi nance in June. were being recovered each year. As a result of Ground passed the test with fl ying colours and Now that the process of constitutional reform Improving Water Supply - A major priority a programme of training for young persons par- It is precisely because of the good perfor- the success of the programme – which rewards the venue development inspectors approved is underway, the Saint Lucia Labour Party will, last year was to improve our water supply and ticularly in the eastern and southern parts of the mance of our tourism industry last year, that informants and not the criminals -- there was the plans for further development of the venue. at the appropriate time, propose and pursue in particular, to ease the plight of the Dennery island for future employment in the new hotels a very upbeat Minister of Tourism, Philip J. also noticeable reduction in the number of gun- Similarly, plans continued to be implemented to amendments to the Constitution of Saint Lucia, communities. to be constructed in those areas. Pierre, was able to so confi dently predict a few related offences throughout the country. improve infrastructure and transportation access to remove all impediments, whether introduced Secondly, as a country we have to be con- days ago, that this year, barring unforeseen cir- Last year Saint Lucia recorded the same to the site. In this regard, the Bella Rosa link In this regard, we have done quite a lot. Mil- by judges or otherwise, to ensure that the death cerned about competitiveness. If wages con- cumstances, St. Lucia is set to reach and pass number of homicides as it did in the previous road, which provides an additional alternative lions were expended to begin work on a new penalty is enforced. Judges must implement the tinue to rise faster than productivity, then we the 300,000- mark for stay-over visitors and ho- year. Thirty seven homicides is an unacceptable route from the Gros Islet highway to the venue, 18-inch transmission line from the new Errard will of the people as expressed in the laws they are going to be in trouble. Government will, tel occupancy is also set to pass last year’s 68% fi gure. In fact any homicide is unacceptable. is under construction and on schedule. water intake to the new storage and treatment have freely chosen to enact. We must cease the therefore, introduce a range of measures aimed record. All of this continues to spell jobs and This year, that fi gure must be reduced. Representatives of the Local Organising plant at Bois Jolie. Meanwhile WASCO has vacillation over capital offences, but comply at enhancing productivity into the workplace. more jobs for St. Lucians. Additional measures introduced last year to Committee also held meetings last year with been given the go-ahead to procure the ma- fully with the Rule of Law. There must be no Progress on preparations for CSME - Pri- intensify fi ght against crime in 2005 included residents living in close proximity to the venue. terials required to improve the water supply exception. Details of both measures will be announced ority Number Two last year was to fi nalize St. the introduction of a new Criminal Code which The Local Organizing Committee also launched in Dennery North as promised in last year’s In the course of this year, further reform will in the 2006/07 Budget. More resources for the police to combat crime Lucia’s entry and participation in the Single came into effect; and later in the year the new a broader sensitization programme to educate address. be effected to the court system. I propose to in- Continued on page 6 6 Saint Lucia Saturday, Januray 21, 2006

Continued from page 5 expected to accommodate as many as 875 stu- Implementing the UHC dents. Surely, will all these investments in our education infrastructure, by the next academic The implementation of the Universal Health year universal secondary education will at long Care system is our third priority. Your have last become a reality. I salute Hon. Mario Mi- heard much about this programme. We must chel, our Minister of Education, Human Re- take decisive steps towards its implementation, source Development, Youth and Sports on this especially now that construction of one of the remarkable achievement. two new hospitals is underway. Ensuring free and fair elections The Government will start with the changes to the governance and administration of Victo- As you know, our Constitution requires that ria Hospital. As I have stated before, the gover- General Elections must be held by the end of nance of the hospital will be ceded to a Board. March 2007. But recent developments since the start of the New Year have indicated that some Secondly, commencing May 1st, The Gov- are more anxious than others about the upcom- ernment will introduce a scheme to provide free ing national electoral contest. Indeed, some medical drugs to pensioners who suffer with who are interested in the electoral race have hypertension and diabetes. The Government demonstrated that they well understand the Cre- will invite the nascent UHC to administer this ole proverb which says “Sa ki pa ni bon pye, programme on its behalf. pwan douvan” (“Those with bad feet or legs I must however, warn you that the introduc- should start early.”) tion of the UHC will cause discomfort and But, that aside, the Government last year did anxiety in the initial stages, but, we must press much to ensure the necessary pre-requisites are ahead because we cannot continue to deny basic Preparing citizens for a new Parliament - a priority for 2006 put in place so that the elections take place in a health care to Saint Lucians who do not possess manner that is consistent with our democratic the income or the means to access such care. used to be much more loving and caring. We in our development. Since assuming office we traditions. The enumeration of voters is now Finalising preparations for World Cup have to rediscover that community spirit, and have worked steadily towards the achievement well underway. Scrutineers recommended by This year, we intend to complete our prepara- rekindle those feelings of respect, tolerance and of that goal. During the tenure of this Govern- the Leader of the Opposition on behalf of the tions for the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup. The neighbourly love that characterised our culture. ment, four new secondary schools have been Opposition and myself, on behalf of the Gov- foresight of our Government in constructing the And, we must make our country more secure. built. The construction of these four new sec- ernment, are monitoring the process to ensure Beausejour Cricket Ground has given us more There are still other challenges left to be ondary schools have increased considerably the its integrity. existing stock of secondary school places avail- time in these critical months leading up to the overcome. Among these are providing suffi- Earlier this month, I announced that regional able in Saint Lucia. The construction of three Opening Ceremony on Sunday 11 March, 2007 cient accommodation to cater to the large num- and international observers will be invited to more secondary schools this year will serve to and the first match in Saint Lucia on Wednesday bers of visitors expected for the Opening Round monitor the next General Elections. This is further augment the available stock of secondary 14 March, 2007 to concentrate on the myriad and semi-final match that we will host. While important, because while seven elections have school places. To date construction has already other issues critical to the hosting of a success- I am extremely pleased with the response to been held since Independence in 1979, on no began on two of these secondary schools – the ful tournament. the Cricket World Cup Accommodation Incen- occasion has observers ever been invited. I wish Gros-Islet and Marigot secondary schools. In fact, we are sufficiently advanced and on tives packages, and remain optimistic that the St. Lucia to be an outstanding example of inter- The Gros Islet Secondary School is being built schedule with our preparations that the Local Bed and Breakfast sector will help in bridging national best practice in electoral behaviour and on 8.32 acres of land at Massade and will con- Organising Committee intends to use the West the accommodation gap, we still have an uphill conduct. We must conduct our elections with- tain twenty classrooms, three science labs, one Indies home series this year as a trial run for battle. out reproach and satisfy ourselves that we have computer lab, one learning resource centre, an many of the new components that will be fea- I also want to see more of our local business- been faithful to democratic norms and practice. art room, segregated sick bays for male and fe- tured during the Cricket World Cup. es preparing for the opportunities that 2007 will male students, a staff room, offices for the prin- I urge all registered and eligible voters to As stated earlier, the Beausejour-Bella Rosa provide. The BOOST initiative of the OPSR ensure they are verified, so that, when the time is a positive step, but local businesses should cipal, the vice principal, the school bursar and link road is nearing completion, and with its school counsellors and an auditorium designed comes, all will be ready, willing and able to commissioning in the next few months and the also look to partner with other companies in the perform their constitutional duty by exercising region, in order that they may profit from the to accommodate 1,000 persons. The school, use of new drop-off zones, the traffic conges- when completed will be a four stream five form their franchise at the polls wherever they are tion that has been perhaps the one negative fea- entire tournament, and not just the Saint Lucia registered to vote. legs. secondary school designed to accommodate ture of international cricket at Beausejour will seven hundred students. Conclusion be a thing of the past. Universal Secondary Education – A Near The Marigot Secondary School will be built Fellow Saint Lucians, the year 2006 will, Reality Much of the permanent improvement works on 10 acres of land alongside the Marigot Play- without question, be another interesting year. at the Beausejour Cricket Ground will also be I now turn to our fifth priority - Since as- ing Field and will also contain twenty class- We expect that most of the projects which have completed within the first half of this year. Per- suming office, this Government has proven rooms, three science labs, one computer lab, commenced will be brought to a successful sons attending matches at Beausejour this year that economic growth is not incompatible with one learning resource centre, segregated sick completion. Universal Secondary education will notice an even faster draining outfield, due social re-engineering. Given the importance bays, a staff room, offices for the principal, the will at long last become a reality. As well, our to comprehensive drainage works, improved of education to our developmental process, its vice principal, the school bursar and school preparation to host the ICC Cricket World in concession stands, a new President’s Box, and role in dismantling socio-economic barriers, counsellors. This school will also be a four 2007 will be at the point of completion by year a permanent Venue Operations Centre, among walls of injustice and prejudice and as a source stream five form secondary school designed to end. other features. However, the feature that will of empowerment, this Government has relent- accommodate seven hundred students. The Constitution of Saint Lucia requires that bring even more pride to Saint Lucians will be lessly pursued the goal of attaining universal In order to meet the stock of secondary school the next general elections for Saint Lucia be places required to make universal secondary held no later than March 2007. I fully expect education a reality, the Grande Riviere Senior that during the course of this year we will see Primary School will be transformed into a full- an acceleration in political activities on the part fledged secondary school. A new three storey of all legitimate political parties. I take this op- concrete structure will be constructed on the ex- portunity to appeal to the leadership of all po- isting site, an existing building will be expanded litical parties and their supporters to conduct and upgraded to make provisions for specialist their electioneering activities in a peaceful, rooms, an existing toilet facility will be upgrad- respectful and non-confrontational manner. For ed, a wooden building on the compound will be my part I intend to take all measures within the repaired and the school site will be landscaped. authority of the Prime Minister to ensure that The new secondary school will contain between general elections are conducted in a free and fifteen and twenty classrooms, two science labs, fair manner. one computer lab, an auto mechanics room, a Let us all work together during 2006 to build learning resource centre, a home economics a harmonious, peaceful and orderly Saint Lucia. room and the appropriate administrative facili- I know we can do it, if we try. I thank you, and ties. The school will be either three stream or wish you a 2006 rich in good health, blessings, four stream, accommodating between 525 and joy and success. 700 students as resources permit. Also, three existing secondary schools name- ly the Choiseul Secondary, the Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School and St. Mary’s College will be expanded, upgraded and reha- Ground works for new secondary school in Gros-Islet bilitated. A new building will be constructed on the compound of the Choiseul Secondary School, an existing building will be expanded the installation of night lighting at the ground, secondary education. As a Government, we and all existing buildings will be given a face which will allow Saint Lucia to feature in a have always held dear the ideal that education lift. The school will be expanded from its pres- proud and historic first for West Indies cricket should never be the exclusive preserve of a se- ent capacity of 525 students to 700 students. – the staging of the very first day-night One Day lect few. I have long contended, that education When the expansion is completed the school International on Wednesday 10th May, when must never be seen as a privilege but rather as will be transformed from a three stream to a Zimbabwe and the West Indies square off. an inalienable right of every citizen. It is only four stream five form secondary school. As I have repeatedly stated, the eyes of the through equal access to educational opportuni- A third floor containing six classrooms will be world will be on our country in 2007, and the ties can our citizens improve their life chances added to the existing accommodation of the publicity that we stand to gain from our par- and change their circumstances. Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School ticipation in the Cricket World Cup is both un- As a Government, we have long embraced and existing rooms in the school will be re- precedented and invaluable. Therefore, there is the belief first espoused by our esteemed Nobel furbished and reorganised. Particular atten- much that remains to be done in order that our Laureate, Sir Arthur Lewis, that “the cure for tion will be paid to science labs, a learning re- country and our people can stand up to the most poverty is not money but education.” We have source centre and accommodation for teachers. rigorous and intense international scrutiny. long regarded universal secondary education as The school will be expanded from its present We have to beautify our island. There are a worthwhile ideal to which we should aspire. capacity of 550 students to a four stream five still too many eyesores that we take for granted Today, I am indeed pleased to report that this form secondary school accommodating 700 or appear content to live with. Indiscriminate long pursuit is near over. The dream of univer- students. littering must be curbed and curtailed. Cus- sal secondary education is about to become a St. Mary’s College – which is currently a tomer service must improve. We cannot make reality. four stream secondary school, will be trans- a successful transition to a service economy if There can be no doubt that the attainment formed into a five stream secondary school we provide discourteous or unhelpful service. of universal secondary education by the next when expansion work is completed. When the We must do a better job resolving conflicts. We academic year will be a monumental milestone expansions are completed, St. Mary College is Secondary education for the future Saturday, January 21, 2006 Saint Lucia 7

he National Insurance Corpo- know enforcing some of these judge- ration (NIC) is hoping that it ments will particularly be very painful Twill not have to enforce judge- to some of them-because we may have ments handed down by the local to sell their houses or whatever little courts against employers who per- property that they’ve got-so we have sistently refuse to pay NIC contribu- hesitated in doing so. What we are tions on behalf of their employees. telling them now is that we are giving Public Relations Manager of the NIC them sufficient time that they can make Augustin Louis says the Corporation has good on their contributions to the Na- tried everything possible to get the de- tional Insurance,” Mr. Louis said. linquent employers to comply but to no He says delinquent employers have avail. He says the courts, through recent been given until the end of January judgements, have given the NIC the per- 2006 to comply. He says unless they mission to seize the assets of these em- can do so or make some arrangement ployers if they fail to comply. with the NIC, the Corporation will “We have our rights to enforce judge- have no choice but to enforce the courts ment but we have hesitated because we judgement by February 2006.

Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony of Saint Lucia and Prime Minister Dr. Denzel Douglas of St. Kitts and Nevis at the last Caricom meeting in Saint Lucia

eads of Government of the Mr. Morgan said June will be the inister for Health Honour- has already mapped out a new vision Organisation of the Eastern highlight month for OECS states. For able Damian Greaves has for the Dennery Hospital. He says the Caribbean states will this their part the Heads have scheduled Mfirmly dispelled what he plans were shaped in keeping with the yearH return to the federation of Saint the first of their two annual meetings has described as serious misconcep- national goal of providing superior Christopher and Nevis, the home of in Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts tions suggesting the imminent clo- health delivery at all health institutions the Treaty of Basseterre, as part of Nevis. sure of the Dennery Hospital. island wide. the 25th Anniversary celebrations of The task force charged with reviewing Minister Greaves who is also Par- the formation of the union. the Treaty of Basseterre are currently liamentary Representative for the The heads who have commissioned refining the draft copy of the Treaty area says a new plan to redevelop the a review of the original Treaty are also which had been presented to the Heads Dennery Hospital is under way and expected to approve the implementa- when they met in Anguilla in 2005. much investment has been injected tion of the provisions of the revised According to Morgan: “There is a into ensuring that a high level of health treaty. task force that is currently working care is delivered to patients. Senior Communications Officer of the on that Treaty. They presented a draft In 2003 patient admissions at the OECS Secretariat Mr. Kendol Morgan at the last meeting in Anguilla and the hospital was discontinued due to in- says member states will host several Heads asked for some further refine- frastructural shortcomings. However important activities to mark the mile- ment. They will be meeting within a officials of the hospital say there is a stone. couple of weeks to look at the refining full compliment of staff and all clinics “ At the last meeting of the OECS of the Treaty and then ensure that is is are still operational. Where required, heads which took place in November in ready for signing as part of the 25th patients are referred to the Victoria Anguilla, the Acting Chairman Prime Anniversary celebrations in June of Hospital for admission. The Dennery Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony, who was this year.” Hospital was originally a 22 bed facil- sitting in for the Prime Minister of St. The heads have in the past espoused the ity, housing at some 200 stay over pa- Vincent and Grenadines Ralph Gon- view that the existing Treaty signed in tients. salves who is the current chairman 1981has to now be relevant to current The Health Minister also said the of the OECS, unveiled a programme and emerging economic and political future of the Dennery Hospital will be of activities which will attributed to developments. These include the fact the subject of a community consul- observance the 25th anniversary. It that the OECS is moving towards an tation to be held on the 8th of February should be a wide ranging programme economic union under the Caribbean 2006. The consultation will be led by a of activities that should be in the public Single Market and Economy – CSME team from the Ministry of Health. Hon. Damian Greaves domain pretty shortly. A lot of the ac- while making its own peculiar strides Speaking of the upcoming consul- Minister for Health, Human Services, tivities will be started towards the end towards the closer integration of the tation the Minister says Government Family Affairs and Gender Relations of January” sub region.

Administrative Attaché to the Prime Min- ister, who died at home on Wednesday January 18, 2006. he Electoral Commission has that “the current enumeration exercise Anthony was a very responsible person confirmed that the old Voters will not be completed in time to publish a who was totally committed to his multiple List will be used for the up- new Voters List for the forthcoming Cas- duties, which he approached with a high coming bye-election in Cas- tries Central Bye-election.” level of devotion. Ttries Central. This was confirmed by According to Mr Monplaisir: “The He was quiet, humble, unassuming, hon- the Chairman of the Commission, Mr Commission confirms that the Voters List, est and absolutely committed to his job. Kenneth Monplaisir, Q.C. Prime Min- as published on 31st March 2005, shall be Always one to exude confidence in his ister Dr Kenny D. Anthony wrote to the the register for the Castries Central Elec- search for solutions to issues and prob- Commission on January 6, 2006, seek- toral District and, accordingly, shall be the lems, he will also always be remembered ing clarification as to which list will be list applicable for the forthcoming Castries for his gentle smiles, his sense of humour, used for the upcoming bye-election in Central Bye-election.” Mr Monplaisir in- his passion for perfection, his quiet resolve the constituency of Castries Central. dicated in his letter to the Prime Minister and his superb intellect. In his letter of reply to the Prime Min- that “the authority for this is in accordance ister, Mr Monplaisir indicated he had with Section 22 of the House of Assembly We will miss his sense of humour and summoned a meeting of the Commis- (Elections) Act 1979.” The Commission Anthony Darius the animated discussions he provoked sion on January 10, to discuss the Prime comprises one member each nominated among his colleagues and friends. Minister’s query. He said the Commis- by the Government and the Parliamentary The Prime Minister and the entire staff We extend our deepest condolences to the sion agreed that the Prime Minister was Opposition and is chaired by an appointee of the Office of the Prime Minister are Darius family, who are in our thoughts and “absolutely correct” when he surmised of the Governor General. deeply saddened by the sudden passing of prayers as we mourn the passing of our dear our colleague and friend, Anthony Darius, and beloved colleague. We will miss him. 8 Saint Lucia Saturday, Januray 21, 2006

aint Lucia’s national under-15 Lucian cricketers lost their first match cricketers returned home last to eventual champions Dominica but Saturday after finishing second secured an impressive 94 run win over S Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in in the annual Windward Islands crick- et championship held for the second their second match. year in Trinidad and Tobago. Saint Lucia won the toss against Five members of the team, captain Dominica and decided to take first Dalton Polius, batsmen Randall Rithal knock in a 40 overs encounter at the Jubliant Saint Lucians cricketers at the Grantley Adams Airport in and Dwight Thomas, left arm spin- Cricket Centre in Couva. The Saint Lu- Barbados on route to Saint Lucia ner Audy Alexander and all-rounder cians reached 134 for nine with Dalton Mc Vern Remy were also able to gain Polius topscoring with 55. Khalil Lulu The Saint Lucians also batted first at In reply the Vincentians were selection in an 18 member Windward was the next best contributor with 24. the same venue against Saint Vincent bowled out for 89 in 27.1 overs. Mc Islands squad to prepare for this year’s The Dominican captain Oscar and the Grenadines. They registered an Vern Remy had excellent figures of West Indies under-15 cricket tourna- George bagged five for 26 in eight impressive 183 for seven with Ran- three wickets for two runs, left arm ment. overs of medium pace, then finished on dall Rithal topscoring with 38. Dwight orthodox spinner Marlon O’ Brian two The Saint Lucian team unfortunately 39 not out to lead Dominica to 135 for Thomas contributed a valuable 35. for 13 off five overs and Khalil Lulu played only two of their four sched- six in 30.2 overs. Cawan Hector was Other useful knocks came from Dalton ended a fine all-round game with two uled matches with the final two games also undefeated on 30. Left arm spin- Polius and Khalil Lulu who both hit for 15 in three overs. washed out due to heavy rainfall in the ner Audy Alexander had a haul of four 23. Wayad Hippolyte chipped in with twin island republic. The young Saint for 27 bowling for Saint Lucia. 19 and Hubert Joseph 16. THIS WEEK ON NTN

Sat. Jan. 21st Fri. Jan. 27th, 2005 NTN – PROVIDING INFORMA- TION YOU NEED Prime Minister’s New Year’s Ad- dress Sat. Jan. 21st, 11:30 a.m. Find out much more about the CSME, it’s implementation and how the regional agreement will impact y. Sun. Jan. 22nd , 11:30 a.m. Derek Walcott speaks with Stuart Hall – Mon. Jan. 23rd , 8:30 p.m. Hon. Derek Walcott speaks about his life and his works – Tues. Jan. 24th , 8:00 p.m. The role of Technical Vocational Education in our education system – Wed. Jan. 25th – 9:00 p.m. The reorganization of agricultural sites and how this move affects the farming community – Thurs. Jan.. 26th , 8:00 p.m. Are you suffering with arthritis? Some ways and means for you and your family to cope with the ailment – Fri. Jan. 27th ,8:00 p.m. Remember to tune in for: GIS News Breaks and Kweyol News daily from 6:30 p.m. Issues & Answers/Mondays at 8:00pm: Interview/Tuesdays at 6:15pm : Konsit Kweyol/Tuesdays at 8:00pm (Kweyol Discussion): Your Right to Know/Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. (Min. of Ed. Prog). Take 2/Fridays at 6:15pm (Week in Review) Weflechi/Fridays at 6:40pm - (Week in Review—Kweyol) One of the areas of growth in 2005 was the manufacturing sector “The value of manufacturing out- put from January to September 2005 alone, exclusive of textile and paper products, is estimated to For the complete programme guide, log on to our website at www.stlucia. have increased by 7.7% to $91.7 million. This is an important development, as this sector prepares gov.lc and then click on the NTN icon. to face the challenges of operating in a more competitive environment.” said Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony in his New Year address to the nation www.stlucia .gov.lc Saint Lucia NATIONWIDE is published every week by the Department of Information Services. Contact us at: The Department of Information Services, Greaham Louisy Administrative Building, The Waterfront, Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies Tel: (758) 468 2116; Fax (758) 453 1614; E-mail: [email protected]; http://stlucia.gov.lc