NationWIDE THE OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF

NationSATURDAY OCTOBER 17, 2015 WIDE WEEKLY Bienvenido! Senor Presidente Nicolas Maduro

Today’s visit by the Venezuelan President follows quickly on the heels of the recent visit here by ‘Simon Bolivar’, the colourful flagship that’s the n Bolivarian Republic’s ‘Ambassador Without Borders’. During its four days Soufriere Dishes Out 280 Scholarships and here, the ship and crew shared the message of peace and development with Bursaries - Page 3 visiting locals, especially students from several schools whose teachers accepted the public invitation to visit aboard. Much is dedicated in this issue Cabinet Approves Use of Force Policy for to today’s visit, which is quite a significant milestone in the relations that have Police - Page 3 characterized the friendship between Saint Lucia and Venezuela sparked through the intimate bond between Venezuelan Liberator Simon Bolivar and Castries Courthouse Repairs Continuing Day and Saint Lucia’s Jean Baptiste Bideau (See Pages 2, 7 and 12). This issue also Night! - Page 3 covers the latest developments in the past week, as well as an update on the PM’s most recent visit to New York to ‘Meet and Greet’ Saint Lucians there Saint Lucia Soon To Do Business In Saudi Arabia - (Page 6), an update on the Fond Canelles Bridge in Micoud (Page 3), Kweyol Page 5 Heritage Month and Jounen Kweyol updates from the USA and Canada and other cultural updates (Pages 3 and 11), plus a reminder that over 600 New $700,000 La Guerre Wellness million jobs have been needed around the globe since 2012 -- particularly Centre Now Open - Page 9 in developing countries like Saint Lucia and the rest of the Caribbean – to make the world a better place for all (Page 8). All this and more lies within Agriculture Minister’s World the following pages, so sit back, relax and enjoy reading this week’s update of all the Government of Saint Lucia has been doing, at home and abroad, Food Day Message - Page 11 during the past week. And remember: you can also watch NationwideTV on NTN and browse the Nationwide Website at stlucianationwide.com

Happy Reading! Happy Viewing! Happy Browsing! WHAT’S INSIDE

Page 2 NationWIDE Saturday October 17, 2015

Venezuelan President Visits Today Editorial

he President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nico- tinue and to progress towards its las Maduro Moros, successor employment target of 5,000. The Maduro Visit T The Entourage will then proceed of the late President Hugo Chavez, visits Saint Lucia today, accompa- to the Parliament Building, where a enezuelan President Nicolas Sistema national youth symphony. nied by Venezuela’s Foreign Affairs Special Session of the House is to be Maduro’s visit here today is Fortunately, Venezuela and Guy- Minister Delcy Rodriguez and oth- convened and addressed by Prime Vboth timely and significant. ana have so far conducted their er Government officials. Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony and the It comes at a time when Venezuela territorial row in a manner that President Maduro was due to be President of the Bolivarian Republic has been offering various forms of will satisfy the rest of CARICOM. generous assistance to several Allowing the United Nations to met and welcomed at GFL Charles of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro Moros. OECS and CARICOM territories. broker an eventual agreement of Airport by Prime Minister Dr. Ken- Nicolas Maduro succeeded the Dominica got 400 homes for fami- any kind is much better than even ny Anthony this morning, ahead of late President Hugo Chavez Frias, who died on March 5th 2013, fol- lies displaced by Tropical Storm Er- talking about non-peaceful op- a Welcome Ceremony and inspec- ika. Displaced Saint Kitts and Nevis tions. tion of a Guard of Honour. lowing a long battle with cancer. Bolivarian Venezuela’s President President Maduro has not deviated sugar workers got a whopping $16 The Saint Lucia Prime Minister The Entourage would then pro- million grant to help sweeten their has often demonstrated his skills Nicolas Maduro Moros from the path of defending the sov- ceeded to Government House for a lives a bit. Besides, most other coun- as a broker of peace and negotia- ereignty of the Bolivarian Republic Courtesy Call on Governor-General to both leaders and their countries. tries in PetroCaribe continue to re- tor of settlements at the regional Dame . The Official Following the discussions, it is of Venezuela, while reaching out, ceive cheaper oil on a regular basis, level. Perhaps his best known Party then moves on to the Official expected that President Maduro emphasizing the value of Integration as well as scores of projects being achievement in that regard was Residence of the Prime Minister, will meet with some of the benefi- to the block of nations comprising undertaken gthrough bilateral and brokering the Herdmanston Ac- CELAC, especially the memberstates where President Maduro and Dr. ciaries of the NICE Program, which multilateral agreements. cord that eventually resulted in a Anthony will hold bilateral discus- received a grant of US$10 million of the ALBA/TCP and Petrocaribe A bilateral agreement will be peaceful settlement of the political sions on matters of mutual concern which enabled the program to con- Agreements. (More on Page 7) signed today by Prime Minister Dr dispute between warring ethnic- Kenny D. Anthony and President based parties following the death Maduro. No details were released of President Cheddi Jagan and his ahead of the visit, but by the time succession by his Chicago-born they end their talks today, Prime wife, Janet in 1997. Diplomatic mission visits NICE people! Minister Anthony will have pro- Prime Minister Anthony got fusely thanked the visiting leader President Janet Jagan and Oppo- for Venezuela’s generous assis- sition leader Desmond Hoyte to n Monday (October 12th) the tance to Saint Lucia. shake hands publicly here during Ambassador of the Bolivar- Saint Lucia has benefited from its the historic CARICOM Summit in ian Republic of Venezuela, friendship with the Bolivarian Re- July 1998. All the CARICOM leaders O were also here with South Africa’s Leiff Escalona and the First Secre- public. Before his death, President tary of the Embassy, Juan Echever- Hugo Chavez had set the stage for Nelson Mandela and Prime Minis- ría, accompanied by the Ambas- a new Caracas engagement with ter Anthony getting the bitter Guy- sador to ALBA and Petrocaribe the Caribbean. PetroCaribe was ana opponents to smoke the peace Eustace Vitalis and the Coordinator established to make cheaper fuel pipe publicly was a signal achieve- ment acknowledged by Mandela of the National Initiative to Cre- available to the islands at gener- ous terms. The ALBA-TCP regime and the other visiting leaders. ate Employment (NICE) Mr. Perry CARICOM and Saint Lucia Thomas, visited several communi- was established to promote closer economic, social, cultural and po- will continue to support a peace- ties throughout the island. litical cooperation between the ful approach to a solution to the The visits were to observe the Caribbean and Latin American Venezuela-Guyana dispute and progress of the NICE program, states. He also established a multi- both countries will also continue which has received funding from million-dollar project aimed at to understand that neither would the ALBA Solidarity Fund, thanks The Venezuelan and ALB Ambassadors with the NICE officials and ben- assisting young people in Carib- gain from a territorial war. It is to the integration scheme of the Al- eficiaries employed through various social programs, thanks to a US $10 bean islands to carve and achieve for CARICOM to now also insist liance for the Peoples of Our Amer- million ALBA-TCP grant that will keep the program going for three years. careers in music. that this matter be allowed to re- ica (ALBA-TCP), of which St. Lucia Under President Maduro, Ven- main as a quarrel between neigh- is a full member since July 20, 2013. where the visiting delegation met live alone, have no families or be- ezuela’s outreach to the Caribbean bouring Caribbean friends and In January 2015, the Government with farmers who inherited this cause of work cannot be cared for intensified. Never mind economic demand that both sides avoid and of Saint Lucia received the first dis- trade from their parents and who by their relatives. It is through the and political pressures at home prevent any involvement or inter- bursement of funds for the program have significantly increased their establishment of this program that his socialist party has maintained ference by any external force. amounting to US$5 million – half levels of production due to the com- decent care and improved quality the commitment to keeping Pet- Meanwhile, Saint Lucia contin- ues to support Venezuela right from a total of US $10 million -- to prehensive support provided by the of life for all seniors who require roCaribe alive. And like all other to decide its future on its own, to ensure the continuity of the pro- NICE program. special care is guaranteed. CARICOM member-states of the shape its destiny according to its NICE underwrites the cost of hir- Additionally, the Odsan Primary ALBA-TCP grouping, Saint Lucia gram, which employs some 1,200 history and to determine the path persons in this important social ing of workers to perform agricul- School, located in Castries South has benefitted from support from Caracas. Petrocaribe oil hasn’t it takes in pursuit of its Bolivarian program. tural tasks in selected areas of pro- East was visited to recognize the ideals. duction. The program also allows other areas of the program, such started to flow here, but Saint The aim of the NICE program is Lucia got three bridges after the In the spirit of the friendship participating farmers to receive full as support for young people to get to create employment opportuni- 2013 Christmas Eve Trough; and between Venezuela’s Indepen- ties and enhance the capabilities support from the Ministry of Agri- their first job and support for min- in 2014, we received 7,000 comput- dence Hero and Liberator Simon of people to engage in a trade, gain culture, including technical advice istries to fill vacancies or adminis- ers, as well as $27 million to keep Bolivar and his faithful Saint Lu- work experience and offer local job and support with obtaining inputs. trative areas. There, the experience the National Initiative to Crete cian friend, Comrade-at-Arms options. The program aims to incor- The program is well received and, of the young people employed as Employment (NICE) alive for at and Captain, Jean Baptiste Bideau porate 5,000 workers over a period according to ‘Ita’, a female farmer administrative assistants, assistants least three years. And the Saint and in memory of Commander of three years. speaking in Creole: "I love farming. in the computer field and kitchen Lucia School of Music continues to Hugo Chavez, the Government Ciceron, located in the outskirts I teach workers how to work the assistants was recognized. benefit from generous Venezuelan and People of Saint Lucia welcome of the city of Castries, was the first land, how to produce, how to work Finally, the delegation met with assistance, including cooperation President Maduro with open arms. community visited. There, 23-year- and I am happy." the team of facilitators of the "Sup- with Venezuela’s legendary El Bienvenido, Senor Presidente! old entrepreneur Keran Rosemond All workers, including women port for Health" program, which explained the process of coconut oil and young people aged 24, said they incorporates into the workplace un- production. in which his micro en- were very grateful to have been in- employed women for jobs in com- terprise was engaged. cluded in the NICE program, which munities to improve eating habits With the support of the NICE pro- guarantees them a monthly wage and life habits with the objective Saint Lucia National gram, Rosemond was able employ that allows them to sustain their of raising the quality of life of the two young persons in the produc- households. people. tion process to consolidate this en- Another program involved the The Venezuelan Mission was terprise. training of young people in the care greatly impressed by the impact of Awards 2015 According to Rosemond, "The of elderly and sick people. Two cas- this employment initiative program NICE Program allowed me to final- es in the community of Jacmel, were and the seriousness and discipline Take part and nominate someone ize this project. Although I bought visited - Ms. Anne Marie Raymond in the implementation and monitor- the machines with my own capital, (98) and Girard Thomas (85), both of ing process by the Saint Lucia Gov- for a National Award. it was impossible for me to pay la- whom are currently receiving home ernment. bour…" The program underwrites care and monitoring of medical Once again, it is evident that the the training of young people before treatment by young people trained ALBA-TCP integration scheme di- Details & Nomination Form at: starting a job. in the NICE program. rectly benefits those most in need, He added, "These guys (being The training process includes the which is why -- thanks to this http://governorgeneral.govt.lc/honors-and-awards trained) will soon join this activity use of tools for the care of the elder- solidarity effort -- the Saint Lucian and we are already seeing the fruits. ly or people with physical or mental people today can recognize the im- We are selling 5,000 packs of 12 units disabilities, as well as the basics for portance of structures such as the Deadline for the nominations is of coconut oil to supermarkets.” the execution of ongoing medical ALBA-TCP to the process of Integra- The Team then travelled to the treatment and first aid. tion of the Peoples of Latin America 30 NOVEMBER, 2015 farming community of Dennery, The program serves people who and the Caribbean. Saturday October 17, 2015 NationWIDE Page 3 Soufriere Foundation gives 260 scholarships and bursaries $1.1 million spent to ensure education for 1,618 students

he Soufriere Foundation trance levels and the disburse- has announced that 260 ment of scholarship awards and Tdeserving students ben- bursaries, the chairman of the efited from its annual scholar- Scholarship’s Committee, Mr. ship/bursary programme this Kennedy Jean, stressed on the year. The successful scholarship importance of education. awardees received a monetary “We the Board of Directors, contribution towards the pur- along with the Management of chase of books, school supplies the Soufriere Foundation, rec- and tuition cost and bursary ognize the importance of edu- awardees received school books. cation in our society. For that The distribution of bursaries reason we will continue to in- and scholarships by the Foun- vest in you. In return, we expect dation has become a customary you to work diligently towards annual undertaking. The pro- attaining your academic goals,” gram, which began as a fledg- he stated. ling undertaking in 2007, has The District Education Offi- gradually grown to become the cer for District 8, Mrs. Valentia biggest scholarships program Charlery, in her brief remarks, in Saint Lucia with average an- expressed the Ministry of Edu- nual expenditure in the last cation’s gratitude for the orga- three years of over $190,000. nization’s undying contribution To date, the organization has and support for education in the awarded nearly $1.1 million to community. “I am privileged Soufriere MP Harold Dalsan and Soufriere Foundation Scholarship Committee Chairman Kennedy Jean approximately 1,618 students. to work in a district where so (seated in front) with students and parents during the ceremony for distribution and recognition of achievers. This year, 260 students at the much support is given to the primary, secondary and tertia- schools. When all seems lost, He stated, “For us it is a flagship advantaged households to be frastructure development in the ry school levels received either hope is given by the Soufriere social program that is designed able to obtain education without Soufriere area. bursaries or scholarships. Foundation,” she said. to create a cadre of skilled per- having to worry about the bur- The organization, which was In a formal ceremony held at In his summary of the Sou- sons that are capable of compet- den of finances and costs.” established in 1993, generates the Cool Breeze Conference friere Foundation’s scholarship ing on the national market for The Soufriere Foundation is revenues from its operational Room on the September 25th program, Project and Opera- jobs. a non-profit company located sites: the Sulphur Springs Park, to both recognize outstand- tions Manager Mr. Dominic Al- “More specifically, the pro- in Soufriere. Its mandate is to Gros Piton Nature Trail, Com- ing performances of students exander, spoke about the pro- gram was designed to allow undertake social, cultural, hu- fort Centre, Soufriere jetties and at the CXC and Common En- gram’s goals and ultimate focus. students and parents from dis- man resource, tourism and in- 88.5 Soufriere FM. Courthouse St. Lucians in Toronto to Easing Flooding celebrate Jounen Kwéyòl repairs In The City next weekend continuing day and night!

he Saint Lucian community in the Greater Toron- to Area (GTA) will celebrate Creole Day (Jounen TKwéyòl) next Sunday (October 25). Jounen Kwéyòl in Toronto will be a whole day affair, starting with breakfast featuring lots of Creole foods and drinks, cultural performances, fashion show, jokes, storytell- ing and much more throughout the day. The event is to be hosted by the Saint Lucia Toronto Creole Committee and part proceeds will be donated to the education of children in Saint Lucia and the Disaster Relief Fund for Dominica. (More on Page 10) Cabinet approves Use of Force policy for law enforcement officers

he Cabinet of Min- al rights and human rights isters has approved of all persons. Therefore, Ta ‘Use of Force Pol- as far as possible, law en- icy’ for Law Enforcement forcement officers should Officers. The Policy is use only that force which is ong before the Bar Association President an- designed to provide pa- objectively reasonable and nounced her members’ boycott of the courthouse rameters and guidance to necessary to accomplish in Castries, the Minister for Home Affairs and Na- looding in the City of Castries has been a problem law enforcement officers lawful ends. L for successive governments and the Castries City in determining the appro- The Policy applies to all tional Security and the Ministry of Justice announced that the government has allocated one million dollars FCouncil mainly due to littering by persons doing priate use of force when Gazetted and non-Ga- ($1.000.000.00) to repair the courthouse. Works have business in the city and expansion of the surrounding discharging their duties. zetted Police Officers of been undertaken by day and night to address the very communities on the hillsides, which has caused more Further, it reinforces the Royal Saint Lucia Po- problems being complained of by the lawyers and their water and soil to wash down into the city’s drains, clog- the responsibility of law lice Force, Special Reserve President. GThe works involves roofing as well as other ging the waterway. The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port enforcement officers to Police, Special Constables external and internal interventions, including changing Services and Transportation addressing drainage ex- adhere to proper practices and Peace Officers. doors and windows, changing ceilings and otherwise pansion and improvement in Castries. The ministry re- and behavior. The Use of Force Policy restoring the building to better serve justice. The strik- cently repaired a damaged drain in the corner of Laborie The Policy recognizes will inform the relevant ing lawyers have instead opted to delay justice for their and Micoud Streets, enabling a quicker flow of water in that law enforcement offi- standing orders to be is- clients – which, observers note, is justice denied. Mean- front of the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Concep- cers must have the highest sued by the Commission- while, the works continue. (Marius Modeste photo) tion. (Photo by Marius Modeste) regard for the constitution- er of Police. Page 4 NationWIDE Saturday October 17, 2015 Fond Canelles Bridge inching SLTB launches local photo contest ahead of closer to completion destination website launch

Scenic photos like this from anywhere on the island will qualify for consideration – and bring home the prize bacon!

n the run up to a major appeals to the visitors’ sense of launch of its new and highly sight and broadens their imagi- Work is progressing smoothly on repairs to the broken bridge at Fond Canelles in Micoud, which was Iinteractive destination web- nation and expectations.” damaged by the Christmas Eve Trough, causing havoc to traffic, which had to be diverted to allow for site scheduled for the end of Participants are required to complete reconstruction of a new passageway over the troubled location after the entire road collapsed. 2015, the island’s lead promo- submit photos depicting the Work has been continuing there for quite some time, given the delicate nature of the project. But it’s com- tions and marketing agency – natural scenery and beauty of ing closer to completion, as the contractors O.B. Sadoo Engineering work to restore normal traffic. The The Saint Lucia Tourist Board Saint Lucia. Images can include, project is funded by the World Bank and the Government of Saint Lucia, through the Ministry of Infra- – has initiated an online photo but not be limited to Saint Lu- structure. competition. cia’s greenery and lushness, The six-week competition landscapes, places of interests started October 12 and will con- and attractions, stunning back- tinue to November 23, as the grounds, hideaways and pan- organization continues to build oramic views. MP pays ‘Respect Due’ a stock of photography that cap- The images should evoke emo- tures the true beauty and story tion, have a ‘wow’ factor and be of Simply Beautiful Saint Lu- captivating and unique so as to cia as an award winning and entice visitors to choose Saint Lu- to Gros Islet teachers sought after destination. cia as their vacation destination. Opened exclusively to local Images can also showcase Saint photographers, both amateur Lucia’s Culture and Heritage. and professional, the competi- Full details on the competition, tion will allow for a compilation including the process of submis- of a variety of scenic destination sion of photos, rules, terms and imagery which can be used for conditions can be accessed on- advertising and promotional line at www.mysaintlucia.org. purposes. Eligible photos must The competition is being adver- capture and showcase the splen- tised via digital platforms (Face- dor and uniqueness of the des- book, Instagram and Twitter). tination. At the end of the competition, “Destination imagery is a pow- three winners will be awarded erful influence over a visitor’s prizes as follows: 1st Prize – 1 decision about where to take a Go pro Camera and apple iPad vacation”, notes Deputy Direc- 4; 2nd Prize – An Apple iPhone tor of Tourism Tracey Warner- 6 Plus; 3rd Prize – 1 Apple iPad. Arnold. The winners will be an- Warner-Arnold who also nounced via social media (Face- heads the Tourist Board’s Mar- book, Instagram, and Twitter) keting Division, says “Imagery during the 1st week of Decem- that portrays key aspects of the ber 2015. destination, is a unique market- For more information about ing tool to achieve a comparable the island of Saint Lucia call advantage in the highly com- 1-800 456-3984, or 1-888 4STLU- petitive tourism industry, as it CIA or visit www.stlucia.org. Caribbean museums to gather here next week

he Museum Association October 19-21, 2015 under Teachers across Gros Islet are still smiling in appreciation for the goodwill and due respect sent their of the Caribbean (MAC) the theme “Museums Sus- way by MP for Gros islet Emma Hippolyte. To mark Teachers Week (October 4-10) – and in her capacity will host a Saint Lucia tainability through Youth as Acting prime Minister -- she delivered an address of congratulations to the nation’s teachers. But that T Conference and Annual Gener- Engagement” at the Bay Gar- was not all. The Acting PM and MP, who is also Minister for Commerce, also made time to visit all of al Meeting (AGM) on Monday. dens Hotel. 22 schools across the island’s largest and most populated constituency. And still that was not all… She The Board of the MAC in This theme will give mem- brought teachers together and after showering them with deserved praise, she also showered them with 2013 awarded the hosting of bers and participants an op- gifts. In photo, the acting PM was all smiles as she handed the teachers their gifts of appreciation and the 2015 AGM and Confer- portunity to forge a more “Respect Due!” ence to Saint Lucia. meaningful working relation- The local organizing com- ship between our museum mittee’s members, compris- organizations and the youth ing of the Saint Lucia Na- of the Caribbean. Seven promoted at Bordelais tional Trust, Archaeological Presentations will focus on and Historical Society, Saint the theme and related topics, Lucia National Archives, Folk discussions and workshops he Bordelais Correctional were four promotions: Etheldred du corps of the staff. Research Centre and Le Pa- capturing the work of MAC Facility last Thursday held James, Yolanda Braville, Kim Le- The last promotion ceremony vilion Royal Museum, are all in the Caribbean, and the way Ta Briefing Ceremony where nor Samuel and Sixtus Julien. was held in 2013. excited to welcome counter- forward for youth involve- seven officers were promoted. The chevrons were presented Meanwhile, the BCF has reit- parts from twelve Caribbean ment in the preservation of From Correctional Officer Two to the newly promoted officers erated its commitment to curb- countries throughout the re- our Caribbean heritage. to Correctional Officer Three, by the Director of Corrections ing contraband activity at the gion, to what we expect to be The AGM’s secretariat is there were three promotions: Mr. Vern Garde. Facility, noting that measures an engaging and educational under the stewardship of Mr. McLean Emmanuel, Roland According to Communications which have been put in place event. Cyril Saltibus of Le Pavilion Charles and Clinton Edward. Officer at Facility Clive Jules, the to strengthen security in and This year's AGM and Con- Royal Museum at Govern- From Correctional Officer One activity was well received and around the facility have resulted ference will be held from ment House. to Correctional Officer Two there represents a boost to the spirit in a decrease in such activity. Saturday October 17, 2015 NationWIDE Page 5 Saint Lucia Honorary Consulate to open in PM says Citizenship by Saudi Arabia November 1 Investment has become a viable alternative

rime Minister Hon. Dr. He stressed that new citizens Kenny D. Anthony de- must enhance Saint Lucia's Plivered a stirring open- global standing and ensure that ing address to the Global Citi- the country's proud heritage en- zens Forum in Monaco last dures. Thursday. In his address, the Prime Min- During the course of his ister outlined the principles and speech, the Prime Minister an- characteristics of the program nounced that Saint Lucia will to be implemented. be accepting applications for He noted that the legislation citizenship by investment as of establishing the program was Jan. 1, 2016. supported without political ran- The government has appointed Halla Walid Al Juffali (left) as While Dr. Anthony described cor, with the blessing of both the Saint Lucia’s representative to promote business and tourism in himself as a jealous guardian ruling government and opposi- Saudi Arabia.She met Governor General dame Pearlette Louisy of Saint Lucian citizenship, he tion parties. during a recent familiarization visit here. noted that the time had come The Prime Minister's address to think beyond traditional ap- was followed by a performance he Government of Saint The Office of the Honorary proaches in order to deal with from Saint Lucia’s Ronald “Boo” Lucia is expanding its Consul will commence opera- the challenges that small states The Prime Minister told the Hinkson and Haitian superstar Tbusiness and tourism tions on Nov. 1. A major train- face. Forum Saint Lucia will begin Wyclef Jean. profile in the Middle East, with ing workshop with travel agents Citizenship through invest- accepting applications in the Wyclef, best known for his the establishment of the Office in Saudi Arabia will be orga- ment, he said, has become a vi- band ‘The Fugees’, attended the New Year. of the Honorary Consul in the nized as the first activity of the able alternative. forum as a special guest and he Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Office. Other activities will in- The Prime Minister informed cepting new citizens, would not performed with Boo at the invi- The Government has appoint- clude investment and business the gathering of citizenship just be offering citizenship but tation of the Prime Minister. ed Halla Walid Al Juffali as Hon- promotion. lawyers, wealth managers, mar- would be offering an identity, a The event was also attended orary Consul based in Jeddah. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia keting agents, investors and people, and Saint Lucia's place by lawyers and professionals Recently, Ms. Juffali undertook is one of the largest economies VIPs that Saint Lucia, by ac- in the world. from Saint Lucia. a tour of Saint Lucia and met in the Middle East and is the with government officials, major largest producer and exporter national institutions and gov- of oil in the world. It is the only ernment agencies to familiarize Arab country to be part of the herself with business and life in G-20 major economies. Saint Lucia in preparation for The establishment of the Of- her responsibilities as the repre- fice of Honorary Consul comes sentative of the Government of at no cost to the Government of Saint Lucia in Saudi Arabia. Saint Lucia. Minister says exports will depend on conformity to international standards

World Standards Day, observed every year on October 14, aims to Panamanian Ambassador to the UK Ana Irene Delgado (left) addressed the Monaco Global Citizens stress the importance of standardization to the global economy. Forum and Saint Lucia's special curtain-raiser for the island's Economic Citizenship Program by Prime Minister Dr kenny D. Anthony (at right) he Saint Lucia Bureau of “This is because conformity Standards joined the in- to international standards re- Tternational community mains critical to promoting and on Wednesday to recognize creating consumer confidence Construction Industry Professionals World Standards Day. in products and services,” she The day was observed un- said. der the theme “Standards: the The minister continued: “The benefited from capacity building workshop World’s Common Language.” common language of standards The observance aims to raise has allowed for a world where onstruction Industry pro- awareness among regulators, your credit card can fit into ev- fessionals here are looking industry and consumers, of the ery cash machine, in any part of forward to implementa- importance of standardization the world, and permits that you C tion of new ideas and approaches to the global economy. can just stroll into a shop and following a capacity building ex- Minister for Commerce, Busi- find the right light bulb for your ercise hosted by the Saint Lucia ness Development, Investment lamp. Coalition of Service Industries and Consumer Affairs, Hon. “Could you imagine a world (SLCSI), in collaboration with the Emma Hippolyte, noted the sa- without telephone codes, coun- Institute of Construction. lience of standardization. try and currency codes and ac- The Coalition and the Institute “It is because of standards that cess to the Internet?” jointly hosted a capacity build- The program will help practicing contractors better understand the world in which we live has be- World Standards Day honours ing exercise for construction the basic requirements for The program will help practicing come known as a global village. the experts who develop vol- industry professionals on Sep- contractors better understand the basic requirements for “As the minister responsible for untary standards within stan- tember 30th, during which ser- for construction projects and by The one-day training work- Commerce, Business Develop- dards development organiza- vice providers received training extension, become successful in shop was conducted by Wins- ment, Investment and Consumer tions such as the International in “Contract Management and the export of services. bert Ricky Felix, a Chartered Affairs, I appreciate the fact that Organization for Standardiza- Health and Safety.” It attracted persons from a Quantity Surveyor with a the competitiveness of our prod- tion, the International Electro The program was designed wide cross section of the con- strong commercial and project ucts, and the success of our ex- Technical Commission and the to help industry professionals struction industry, including management background. ports depend on conformance to International Organization on (practicing contractors) under- engineers, architects, surveyors The workshop was held at the international standards. Legal Metrology stand the basic requirements and building contractors. Royal by Rex Resorts. Page 6 NationWIDE Saturday October 17, 2015

Saint Lucians Meet and Greet with PM and Ministers in New York Saint Lucians in NYC Saint Lucians in NYC Herald the brought up to date on Heritage and Fly happenings back home! the Flag high!

During the Meet and Greet town hall Meeting attended by the Prime Minister, the Foreign Affairs Minister and the min- ister for Sustainable development, Saint Lucians exhibited just how much they have held on to their roots and culture and how much pride they have in displaying their natural and national heritage. This group sang and danced, in English and Kweyol style, while waving the national flag through every song and dance. (Photo Courtesy: Loud Impressions Photography) Saint Lucians to display national pride at New York Jounen Kwéyòl

Saint Lucians in New York and other parts of the North American Diaspora always look forward to fete tomorrow! visits by Government Ministers and other top government officials, as they normally make time to take time off to meet and greet Saint Lucians and update them on happenings back home. That was exactly what happened earlier this month when the Prime Minister and two cabinet Ministers took time off their attendance at the 70th United Nations General Assembly, the Sustainable Develop- ment Summit and the high-level Major Economic Forum (MEF) to attend a Town hall meeting with Saint Lucians. Exopectedly, it was a full house as Saint Lucians took the opportunity to question the prime Minister, Foreign Affairs Minister Alva Baptiste and Sustainable Development Minister Dr James Fletcher on everything from their concerns about reports of an alleged police plot against the prime Minister to the Economic Citizenship Program and what’s being done to combat Climate change. These photographs reflect the speakers and audience in the Town Hall session.

n observance of Creole Non-natives can also get a Heritage Month, the New taste of the island’s rich cul- IYork City-based Saint tural heritage. Lucia Mothers’ Day Com- Now in its 20th year, the mittee invites nationals liv- Saint Lucia Mothers’ Day ing in or visiting the tri-state Committee’s mission is to area, and all those seeking keep Saint Lucian identity a unique Saint Lucian cul- and history alive in the tural experience, to attend Diaspora. its annual Jounen Kwéyòl The organization’s Presi- celebration, scheduled for dent, Ms. Sherlina Bernard, Tomorrow Sunday, October encourages everyone to 18. The event will take place attend this year’s activity, in Brooklyn, New York, from as a way to reassert their Noon until 10pm. national pride and main- This year’s festivities will tain their association with feature performances by the their homeland, calling it Saint Lucia American La Rose “a must-attend event” for and Solo Group, a fashion Saint Lucians. show, storytelling and folk Proceeds from this year’s dances, and a host of other cul- Jounen Kwéyòl will go to tural attractions. support three worthwhile Samples of traditional Saint causes, all directly con- Lucian cuisine and beverages nected to Saint Lucians: the will be offered for sale as well. organization’s scholarship Jounen Kwéyòl also offers fund for college students of native Saint Lucians the op- Saint Lucian heritage, Saint portunity to reconnect with Lucy’s Home for the El- their homeland, and acquaint derly, and the Cornerstone themselves with other expatri- Humanitarian Society for ate members of the community. the Homeless. Saturday October 17, 2015 NationWIDE Page 7 Bienvenido, Senor Presidente! Maduro: the voices of the peoples will be heard in the Paris Summit

uring the be a space “to hear the Fund’s strategy “pro- closing cer- voice of our people” and moted by the Empire Demony of the to show all the proposals and the development II World Conference presented in the Quil- countries, which is aims of the Peoples for the lacollo Conference that to colonize, once again, Climate Change and started last Saturday 10th. the most vulnerable Defense of Life that More than 50 social move- countries.” took place in Quil- ments, ecologists and en- However, he assured lacollo, Bolivia, Mad- vironmentalists from dif- that he would support the uro said: “we have to ferent countries attended proposal if it an uncon- guarantee that the the conference. taminated and sustain- Climate Summit in “We have to refine our able proposal that respect Paris will be a Sum- voices to make our pro- the peoples of the world. Venezuela’s president Nicolás Maduro urged to the Heads of States to mit for the peoples, posals heard, where all He also stressed the need transform the World Climate Summit in Paris, France, in a space for the for all the social the peoples of the world of creating a system to expression of the peoples. movements that de- join to defend the envi- protect the humanity and fend the planet.” ronment.” the environment. International Monetary in the planet,” Maduro mit in Paris, France, Maduro stressed The president also “We cannot believe in Fund; the peoples will added. will take place at the that the Summit will mentioned the Green oligarchies and in the save humanity and life The World Climate Sum- end of the year. Black Activists Honor Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro In Harlem

By Roque Planas - National Reporter, The Huffington Post

lack intellectu- racism continues to haunt an economy that he said month of instigating the vi- last week he had spoken comrade and a great als, activists our populations like a "shares its resources in- olence and sentenced him personally with Colombi- leader” and saying and politi- ghost.” stead of exploiting them.” to 14 years in prison. Critics an President Juan Manuel that Maduro embod- B Latin America’s left has In his speech, Maduro view his imprisonment as Santos, who has repeatedly ies his legacy. cal leaders honored Venezuelan Presi- deep roots in Harlem. praised the Sustainable De- politically motivated, while criticized the Venezuelan “He’s a trade union- dent Nicolás Maduro When Fidel Castro first ad- velopment Goals adopted Venezuelan officials have deportations. ist,” Glover said of at the National Black dressed the United Nations by the United Nations last accused the U.S. of financ- “We looked each other Maduro, who began his Theatre in Harlem in 1960, he chose to check week, calling them “truly ing the protest movement. in the eye,” Maduro said. career as a bus driver. “I in at the Hotel Theresa in extraordinary” and saying More recently, the Ven- “And we managed to at come from a family of on Monday, praising Harlem instead of the more they should urge people to ezuelan government has least take a first step.” trade unionists. I really his left-wing gov- luxurious midtown Man- rethink the capitalist eco- deported more than 1,400 The event in Harlem pro- honor that.” ernment’s education hattan hotels where many nomic structure. Colombians and closed off vided the leftist Maduro Maduro was followed and health care poli- foreign dignitaries stay “We need to create major border crossings. with an opportunity to by Prime Minister cies as an alternative when visiting New York. In wealth,” Maduro said. “But Another 18,000 Colombi- reach out to American pro- of St. and possible remedy the neighborhood, Castro we also must distribute it ans have fled the country gressives and to share a Vincent and the Grena- to U.S. policies they met with Malcolm X and among the people. This is voluntarily, according to stage with black thinkers dines, who urged the say foster racism. poet Langston Hughes. an important detail. We U.N. figures. and activists, including ac- audience to support Maduro is one of Venezuelan leaders have need to create social and Government officials say tor Danny Glover, Demo- Caribbean countries’ dozens of heads of kept up the tradition, culti- economic models that put the crackdown was aimed cratic New York state Sen. efforts to win repara- state who traveled to vating economic ties to New people who work front and at containing illegal Co- Bill Perkins, and co-founder tions for colonization New York this week York City as well. Through center ... We have to replace lombian armed groups and of #BlackLivesMatter Opal and slavery. to speak before the an- its state oil company, the the dictatorship of capital.” people hoarding or smug- Tometi. “We have a giant nual U.N. General As- Venezuelan government “Presidents can’t get ac- gling scarce consumer "We experience the daily movement in the sembly -- and his stop provides free home heating customed to only being goods across the border. effects of the neoliberal Caribbean seeking in Harlem carried sym- oil to 75,000 people in the around elites,” he added. Opponents, on the other agenda that guts the so- reparations for native bolic weight. Taking neighborhood, according “If I have to choose, I’d hand, blame Venezuela’s cial safety net that was genocide and African the podium in front of to Democratic state Sen. rather be in Harlem.” complex system of price intended to provide some slavery,” Gonsalves a banner displaying Bill Perkins, who presented While Maduro received controls and multiple cur- modicum of support and said. “This conversa- his own mustachioed the Venezuelan president a hero’s welcome in Har- rency exchange rates for stabilization to marginal- tion does not have to image and raised fist, with a proclamation from lem -- where the crowd incentivizing hoarding and ized communities,” Tometi be belligerant… I don’t Maduro excoriated the New York Senate prais- cheered and shouted “¡Viva smuggling. said. “And instead, we’ve have to raise my voice European colonialism ing his leadership. Chávez!” and “¡Viva Ven- Maduro’s 30 percent pop- seen investments in appa- with [British] Prime and U.S.-led neoliber- “We recognize that in the ezuela!” -- he has struggled ularity rating is among the ratuses and systems that Minister [David] alism as the twin foun- person of Nicolás Maduro, to find his footing at home lowest in Latin America, criminalize us and that dis- Cameron. We had that dations of racism in the the president of Venezu- after narrowly winning the according to regional poll- place us … That constitutes discussion today. But I Americas. ela, we have an exceptional country's 2013 election. ster Latinobarómetro's an- state violence. Let’s call it told him that the issue “We’ve suffered leader,” Perkins said, read- Maduro faced a months- nual survey, which was what it is.” of reparations for na- with you,” Maduro ing aloud from the docu- long protest movement released last week. Glover praised former tive genocide and Af- told the crowd of ment. He applauded Ven- last year that led to dozens The Venezuelan leader Venezuelan President rican slavery has to be about 200 people. “It ezuela’s government for of deaths. A Venezuelan touched on the topic of the Hugo Chávez before in- taken in the context of hurts us to know that championing universal court convicted opposition deportations in Monday troducing Maduro, call- the post-2015 goals for this old structure of health care and developing leader Leopoldo López this night’s speech, saying that ing him “my brother, my development.” Venezuelan President meets with Black Leaders in Harlem

hile in the current socio-eco- humanism” in efforts to New York nomic challenges faced by combat racial inequalities. Wfor the 70th Black communities in the Foreign Minister Delcy session of the United United States. Rodriguez reported that Nations General As- In response, the Venezu- Danny Glover, the ac- sembly, Venezuelan elan leader expressed sol- tor and chairman of the President Nicolas idarity with the victims Trans-Africa Forum, Maduro met with of police brutality and confirmed he remains leaders from the discriminatory policing a “great friend of Ven- Black community tactics. ezuela” in his address, by in Harlem Monday, “From South America, “highlighting the legacy discussing various please believe me when I and leadership of Hugo issues including po- tell you, that we have also Chavez for the people of lice brutality and suffered along with you the Caribbean.” structural racism. against this old narrative Also present at the event During the the of racism, which contin- were Estela Vasquez of People of African ues to afflict our people,” the 1199SEIU United Descent Leadership Maduro stated. Healthcare Workers Summit, President During his speech, Pres- union and Dr. Ron Dan- Maduro listened to ident Maduro highlighted iels, president of the In- a panel of activists the need to form “a new stitute of the Black World and experts discuss radical consciousness of 21st Century. Page 8 NationWIDE Saturday October 17, 2015 The Diplomatic Courier China-Taiwan Cross-strait World faces a 600 million talks end in agreement jobs challenge The world faces the “urgent challenge” of creating 600 he Director of the State Council Taiwan Affairs million productive jobs over the next decade in order to TOffice, Zhang Zhijun, on generate sustainable growth and maintain social cohesion, Wednesday urged the Chinese according to the annual report on global employment by mainland and Taiwan to choose the right path for development of the International Labour Organization (ILO). cross-Strait relations. Zhang was speaking during he world faces the “urgent young people are nearly three a meeting with Taiwan's cross- challenge” of creating 600 times as likely as adults to be un- Strait Affairs Chief Andrew Hsia million productive jobs employed. The global youth un- in Guangzhou, capital of south T over the next decade in order to employment rate, at 12.7 per cent, China's Guangdong Province. generate sustainable growth and remains a full percentage point Zhang said both sides of the maintain social cohesion, accord- above the pre-crisis level. Strait should consider public ing to the annual report on global The report’s main findings also opinion and take the need to re- employment by the International include: alize the rejuvenation of the Chi- Labour Organization (ILO). • There has been a marked slow- nese nation into account when “After three years of continuous down in the rate of progress in making decisions. crisis conditions in global labour reducing the number of work- He said the mainland and Tai- markets and against the prospect ing poor. Nearly 30 per cent of wan are inseparable and share a The director of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, Zhang of a further deterioration of eco- all workers in the world – more common destiny. Zhijun (R) shakes hands with Taiwan's cross-Strait affairs chief nomic activity, there is a backlog than 900 million – were living Zhang called on both sides to Andrew Hsia in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong of global unemployment of 200 with their families below the adhere to the political basis of up- Province on October 14. [Photo / Xinhua] million,” says the ILO in its an- US$2 poverty line in 2011, or holding the “1992 Consensus” and nual report titled “Global Employ- about 55 million more than ex- oppose “Taiwan independence,” to The core of the “1992 Consen- tinue communication between their ment Trends 2012: Preventing a pected on the basis of pre-crisis get over difficulties and make joint sus” is the acknowledgment that cross-Strait affairs agencies in mul- deeper jobs crisis ”. Moreover, the trends. Of these 900 million efforts for the Chinese nation’s re- the Chinese mainland and Tai- tiple forms and improve efficiency report says more than 400 million working poor, about half were newal and people’s happiness. wan belong to one and the same in handling cross-Strait issues. new jobs will be needed over the living below the US$1.25 ex- He said the cross-Strait situation China. They also agreed that the two next decade to absorb the estimat- treme poverty line. had experienced some choppy Some of the problems existing sides should carry on the negotia- ed 40 million growth of the labour • The number of workers in vul- times and even reached a perilous between the two sides may not be tions of further cross-Strait agree- force each year. nerable employment2 globally brink at one point but, since 2008, solved in a day, but require both ments including those regarding The Global Employment Trends in 2011 is estimated at 1.52 bil- both sides had managed to steer sides to be realistic, accumulate a pact on trade in goods and one Report also said the world faces lion, an increase of 136 million cross-Strait ties toward the di- consensus and use rational think- on environmental protection. the additional challenge of creat- since 2000 and of nearly 23 mil- rection of peaceful development, ing, patience and perseverance, They also pledged to create a ing decent jobs for the estimated lion since 2009. yielding fruitful achievements Hsia said. more fair and effective invest- 900 million workers living with • Among women, 50.5 per cent and bringing about practical ben- He said that despite some out- ment environment to boost in- their families below the US$ 2 a are in vulnerable employment, efits for the public. side opinions and guesses on vestor confidence, work for the day poverty line, mostly in devel- a rate that exceeds the corre- “It has been proven that the the prospect of Cross-Strait ties, earlier implementation of exist- oping countries. sponding share for men (48.2). peaceful development of cross- the majority of people in Taiwan ing agreements on service trade, “Despite strenuous government • Favourable economic conditions Strait ties is a right path and it has entertain the hope for peace and taxation and air safety, improve efforts, the jobs crisis continues pushed job creation rates above been endorsed by the public on prosperity across the Strait. cross-Strait tourism and promote unabated, with one in three work- labour force growth, thereby both sides and welcomed by the “I believe it is also the common cross-Strait exchanges for youth, ers worldwide – or an estimated supporting domestic demand, international community,” he said. wish of all relevant parties in this culture and education. 1.1 billion people – either unem- in particular in larger emerging Hsia said the achievements over region,” he added. At a press conference held after ployed or living in poverty”, said economies in Latin America and the last seven years in cross-Strait Hsia called on both sides to con- yesterday’s meeting, Ma Xiao- ILO Director-General Juan Soma- East Asia. development must be cherished tinue cross-Strait institutional guang, spokesman for the State via. “What is needed is that job • The labour productivity gap and protected, noting that the consultations and strengthen ex- Council Taiwan Affairs Office, creation in the real economy must between the developed and the “1992 Consensus” was the foun- changes. stressed the importance of adher- become our number one priority”. developing world – an impor- dation for normal exchanges be- The two sides agreed that the ing to the “1992 Consensus” in The report says the recovery that tant indicator measuring the tween Taiwan and the mainland. mainland and Taiwan should con- cross-Strait development. started in 2009 has been short- convergence of income levels lived and that there are still 27 across countries – has narrowed million more unemployed work- over the past two decades, but ers than at the start of the crisis. remains substantial: Output per CAB calls for removal of Caribbean The fact that economies are not worker in the Developed Econo- generating enough employment mies and European Union re- is reflected in the employment-to- gion was US$ 72,900 in 2011 ver- territories on US Tax Haven blacklist population ratio (the proportion sus an average of US$ 13,600 in of the working-age population in developing regions. he Caribbean Association vice through the US Foreign Ac- ships to facilitate critical econom- employment), which suffered the “These latest figures reflect the of Banks Inc. (CAB) is once count Tax Compliant Act (FATCA) ic and financial transactions such largest decline on record between increasing inequality and con- Tmore forced to express its and (with the exception of one) are as, remittances, foreign direct in- 2007 (61.2 per cent) and 2010 (60.2 tinuous exclusion that millions of deep concern over yet another “tax- listed as either having a signed in- vestments and international trade per cent). workers and their families are fac- haven” list which includes 15 Com- tergovernmental agreement (IGA) in goods and services. At the same time, there are ing”, said Mr. Somavia. “Whether monwealth Caribbean countries. or being treated as having an IGA For example, the value of Unit- nearly 29 million fewer people in we recover or not from this crisis The referred list appears within in effect; and ed States exports to CARICOM the labour force now than would will depend on how effective gov- the District of Columbia’s 2015 All CAB member Banks and fi- countries for the periods 2011- be expected based on pre-crisis ernment policies ultimately are. Budget Support Act which ex- nancial services institutions have 2013 were US$16.99B, US$18.6B, trends. If these discouraged work- And policies will only be effective pands the definition of “tax ha- mechanisms in place to satisfy US$17.9B respectively; while US ers1 were counted as unemployed, as long as they have a positive im- ven” (for purposes of the water’s- FATCA requirements. imports from CARICOM coun- then global unemployment would pact on peoples’ lives”. edge combined group rules). Additionally, the CAB as part of tries for the same periods were swell from the current 197 million The report calls for targeted This Act is due for passing by the its mandate, works very closely US$9.5B, US$8B, and US$8.4B re- to 225 million, and the unemploy- measures to support job growth in US Congress in just 18 congressio- with its members to ensure compli- spectively (Source: CARICOM ment rate would rise from 6 per the real economy, and warns that nal working days from Sunday ance, training and other measures Statistics). cent to 6.9 per cent. additional public support mea- 20th September, 2015.While the are satisfactorily in place with re- These trade flows are derived The report paints three scenar- sures alone will not be enough to CAB fully supports the District spect to regulatory, legislative and mainly from key sectors such as ios for the employment situation foster a sustainable recovery. of Columbia’s efforts to combat other matters of such nature. Tourism, Manufacturing, Agri- in the future. The baseline projec- “Policy-makers must act deci- tax evasion, the CAB feels that the It must be highlighted that this culture, Retail, ICT etc. Conse- tion shows an additional 3 million sively and in a coordinated fashion designation of Caribbean territo- inaccurate description of Caribbe- quently, this issue impacts the unemployed for 2012, rising to 206 to reduce the fear and uncertainty ries as “tax havens” is prejudicial. an territories has already had and very livelihood of Caribbean million by 2016. If global growth that is hindering private invest- It is noteworthy that: could have even further-reaching people. rates fall below 2 per cent, then ment so that the private sector can The Organisation for Economic effects on the Caribbean’s finan- Accordingly, the CAB is unable unemployment would rise to 204 restart the main engine of global Co-operation and Development cial services sector as well as the to understand the justification for million in 2012. In a more benign job creation”, says the report. (OECD) and the Global Forum economies. Indigenous banks in identifying these countries as tax scenario, assuming a quick resolu- It also warns that in times of fal- on Transparency and Exchange the region are currently being havens and has written to the Dis- tion of the euro debt crisis, global tering demand further stimulus of Information for Tax Purposes challenged with the threat of loss trict of Columbia Mayor Muriel unemployment would be around is important and this can be done have confirmed that all members of correspondent banking rela- Bowser (also copied to 13 Council 1 million lower in 2012. in a way that does not put the of the and tionships which are provided by members) and key members of Young people continue to be sustainability of public finances Common Market (CARICOM) are international banks. Congress (Chairman and Rank- among the hardest hit by the at risk. The report calls for fiscal fully or largely compliant and The DC 2015 Budget Support ing Members of both the House jobs crisis. Judging by the pres- consolidation efforts to be carried have committed to Automatic Ex- Act’s “black list” may serve to ex- Appropriations Committee and ent course, the report says, there out in a socially responsible man- change of Information (AEOI); acerbate the perception of our re- the Subcommittee on Financial is little hope for a substantial im- ner, with growth and employment None of the CARICOM countries gion as a high risk area and conse- Services) urging them to remove provement in their near-term em- prospects as guiding principles. listed in the Act are on the Finan- quently, negatively impact the Risk the names of the Caribbean coun- ployment prospects. (EDITOR’S NOTE: This article cial Action Task Force (FATF) AML/ Rating profile of financial institu- tries from this listing of “tax ha- Global Employment Trends 2012 originally appeared on the ILO’s CFT Strategic Deficiencies Lists; tions by correspondent banks. vens” as defined. says 74.8 million youth aged 15- website on January 25, 2012. It is All of the CARICOM territories As financial intermediaries, The Caribbean Association of 24 were unemployed in 2011, an reproduced in light of a repetition listed in the Act have cooperated banks are highly dependent upon Banks continues to monitor this increase of more than 4 million of a similar gloomy forecast ear- with the US Internal Revenue Ser- correspondent banking relation- state of affairs, closely. since 2007. It adds that globally, lier this week by several agencies.) - Saturday October 17, 2015 NationWIDE Page 9 $700,000 La Guerre Wellness Centre now open!

he Ministry of Health, last to be constructed under Wellness, Human Ser- the Basic Needs Trust Fund Tvices and Gender Rela- Program (BNTF) at a cost of ap- tions officially re-opened the proximately $744,000, he added. La Guerre Wellness Centre last The BNTF now focuses on ac- Wednesday. The newly refur- cess, water and sanitation and bished and expanded facility is education. over three times the size of its Henry said that great atten- predecessor. The facility will tion was given to the designing serve the communities of Plato, and the acquisition of additional Boguis, Monier, La Guerre and land for the 711 square foot ex- environs. tension, that would enable the Chair of the Babonneau Con- provision of additional health stituency Council, Dr. Virginia services. Albert-Poyotte, said the refur- The facility now includes a cli- bished wellness centre is a wel- ent waiting room, reception re- come improvement. cords area, a doctor's office and "This is a very valuable institu- examination room, a treatment tion that will play a critical role clinic, pharmacy and dispens- in ensuring that the people in ing booth, a multi-purpose us- the community have access [to age office, staff facility lounge, The expanded facility now includes a client waiting room, reception records area, a doctor's office healthcare]," she said. a nursing station, laundry, fenc- and examination room, a treatment clinic, pharmacy and dispensing booth, and a nursing station. Based on reports, the Babon- ing and storage and a state of the Health Minister Alvina Reynolds (above) cut the ribbon for the expanded centre, one of several being neau Wellness Centre was in- art data network to support the constructed by government through the SSDF with CDB-BNTF funding. undated with persons needing ministry's Health Management service, in the absence of the La Information System (HMIS). said the health ministry is Gros Islet Polyclinic, and under- out with NIPRO for the Anse La Guerre wellness facility. Permanent Secretary in the achieving its goal of improving took renovations at the Soufri- Raye centre while the one in Mi- Executive Director of the So- Ministry of Health, Cointha primary healthcare. ere Hospital. coud is next on the list." cial Development Fund (SSDF), Thomas, said the centre is outfit- Over the past four years, she "The re-opening of this new, The services offered at the La Joachim Henry, said the La ted with top of the line, modern noted, the Ministry of Health upgraded, well-equipped, com- Guerre Wellness Centre include, Guerre facility was established equipment, and has the one of has re-opened and augmented fortable environment which antenatal and post natal care, in response to the land slippage the most advanced Health Man- the services at a number of well- will serve your communities is child health clinics, dressings, in Boguis which created a de- agement Information Systems ness centres including Entrepot, part of a plan for improving the urgent care before referral to mand for health services, and on the island. Etangs, Ti Rocher Micoud, Ti performance of the healthcare hospitals, diabetes testing, hy- rendered the wellness centre in Minister for Health, and Par- Rocher Castries, the Castries system in Saint Lucia," she said. pertension clinics, doctor's clin- Boguis uninhabitable. liamentary Representative for Health Centre, Dennery Hospi- "Other centers will follow. The ics, nutritional counseling, and The wellness centre was the Babonneau, Alvina Reynolds tal, extended the services at the final details are being worked health promotion and education. Health Ministry supports Pink Friday initiative

n observance of Breast Can- "Part of the Ministry of lies; and for us as a corporate cer Awareness Month in Oc- Health's mandate is to have citizen we want to ensure that Itober, the Ministry of Health multi-sector participation. The we are part of the movement through the Bureau of Health Ministry of Health cannot fight to fight this disease," Louis Promotion has started a Pink breast cancer or any other dis- Victor, Marketing Executive at Friday initiative. ease on its own. We need the Digicel said. The activity advocates that in- support of private organizations “Digicel has embraced this ini- dividuals and companies wear and line ministries,” she said. tiative to help create awareness. pink in recognition of the vic- The telecommunications com- By getting the staff involved, we tims, survivors and persons af- pany Digicel has lent its support believe that it creates greater fected by breast cancer. to the initiative. sensitization about how we can The Ministry of Health collaborates with Digicel in the fight Family Life Educator within "We all in one way or another prevent the disease.” against breast cancer for the month of October. the Ministry of Health, Nadi- have been affected by the dis- Digicel has also collaborated ege Smith, said the Ministry of ease, if not by having someone on other cancer initiatives such Smith said Digicel demon- of Health Promotion looks for- Health has invited key stake- in our circle directly affected, as the recently-held "Walk for a strates commitment to society, ward to more corporate part- holders to support the fight or someone we know of, we Cure," CFL's Yoplait Walk (Nov. the community and the popula- ners and individuals supporting against breast cancer. have seen what it does to fami- 1), and the Wave's "Men in Heels." tion, and added that the Bureau the Pink Friday initiative Victoria Hospital refutes PM congratulates Culinary Ambassador on latest accolade! untrue media reports

ictoria Hospital has re- seling on how they can settle sponded to reports ema- their medical expenses. Vnating from both social She explained further, "We and mainstream media claim- have had instances where per- ing that clients are denied care sons have brought in goods for due to their inability to pay. sale and we would buy their Executive Director of the Vic- produce to offset their bills. toria Hospital (VH), Jeanette “We have had instances where Chef Nina’s new restaurant, "Compère Lapin", was named one of Hughes, has denied the claims persons are unemployed and the best new restaurants around the world. and highlighted the expressed we have a need for temporary policy of the hospital. employment and we would ac- aint Lucia's Culinary Dr. Anthony said: "Congratu- "Victoria Hospital has two tually employ persons on a tem- Ambassador, Chef Nina lations to Chef Nina on such a main policies: to deliver qual- porary basis and they would Compton, continues to remarkable achievement. Nina Executive Director Hughes S ity care to everyone who comes contribute towards their bills. wow the world with her culi- continues to make us proud. I requesting care, and to give that says no one is denied care due “So Victoria Hospital is defi- nary skills and exploits. am especially impressed with care with or without the ability to inability to pay. nitely about giving service and In September, Chef Nina's how deliberate she is in incor- New Orleans restaurant, "Com- porating Saint Lucian living to pay,” she said. “So we never pay anything because that per- to work with the clients we turn down anybody at Victoria serve. And I will categorically père Lapin" was named one and our unique experiences in son would be exempted.” of the "Best New Restaurants her endeavors. Her love for our Hospital regardless of their abil- She continued: “Persons who deny this: we do not turn away ity to pay." anyone at Victoria Hospital be- Around the World" by the Huff- country and pride in her heri- have medical insurance would ington Post. tage is all over her work. From Hughes explained that per- be required to present their in- cause they are unable to pay.” sons who access care at VH are The Executive Director indicat- The article states "Compère the name of her restaurant to surance documents. However, Lapin marries the flavors of the offerings at her tables, she is normally asked to present their there may be persons who do ed that anyone who has encoun- medical exemption card or in- tered a situation where they have [Chef Nina’s] native Saint Lucia, a proud Saint Lucian and repre- not have medical insurance and her experience cooking French sents us well. I wish her contin- surance form, or they are asked may be required to pay out of been denied care, should contact to pay out of pocket. her at 758.456.8201 or emailvicto- and Italian cuisine, and ingredi- ued success. This is but the be- pocket." ents from the surrounding Gulf ginning of great achievements." "It means, therefore, that Hughes said that the policy at [email protected], or visit her someone who is not able to pay office to schedule an appointment. area." Nina's restaurant, Compère the hospital has not changed. A Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Ken- Lapin, was opened in New Or- and is exempted by the state, business office was recently es- She also appealed to aggrieved would be given care and would clients to first dialogue with ny D. Anthony has extended leans in June, after emerging tablished to work with persons congratulations to the Ambas- as a fan favorite and coming in not have to pay or be asked to and to provide financial coun- hospital administration to find a solution to the situation. sador on her achievement. second in Season 11 of Top Chef. Page 10 NationWIDE Saturday October 17, 2015 First Lady in the Chair at FRC he Folk Research Cen- Louis, Shirley Ann Edward, Ju- tre (FRC) made history liana Prospere, Floreta Nicho- Tlast Wednesday, during las, Sylvester Dickson, Hubert a meeting of the new Board of James and Leslie Charles. Directors when it elected its Leslie Charles, who is the first female chairperson. Floreta outgoing chairman of the Nicholas, a retired senior mag- Board of Directors was re- istrate, cultural activist, actress tained as an ex-officio mem- and playwright, is expected to ber of the Board for purposes lend her knowledge and experi- of continuity; while the ninth ence to the development of the Director, Msgr Dr. Patrick An- objectives of the FRC. thony, is a Founding Director Nicholas was elected on Oct. 7, of the Folk Research Centre days after the FRC elected a new and is not elected. Board of Directors for the biennial The Deputy Chairman of the 2015 to 2017, at its annual general FRC, Sylvester Dickson, is a re- meeting held on Saturday, Oct. 3. tired civil servant who worked Floreta Nicholas (left) is a retired senior magistrate, cultural activist, actress and playwright. The new Directors are Dr. in the Ministry of Finance. He At right is FRC Founder-member, Monsignor Dr Patrick Anthony. Joycelyne Fletcher, Laurine is also a Credit Union expert. FRC promoting cultural education for children

he Folk Research Cen- to the country's economy and tre (FRC) on Tuesday the importance of culture.” Tlaunched a cultural edu- Curriculum Specialist for Mu- cation program, as one of the sic, Jason Joseph, is one of the activities planned for Kwéyòl many instructors. His focus is Heritage Month. on the development of music FRC’s Executive Director, Hil- and culture in Saint Lucia. ary La Force, said the program He said, “I will speak about enables students to understand the importance of music in our and appreciate their cultural society. It can be found practi- heritage. cally in all aspects of society, He explained, “We run a pro- in our celebrations, in our re- gram for the entire month of Oc- laxation activities. I will also be tober where we bring in schools looking at how culture affects from all over the island, usually the music that we produce and primary schools. how the music we produce af- “They apply to come to the fects our culture.” FRC and we instruct them on The program addresses the the culture of the country as it arts, history and culture as well relates to dance, music, the his- as traditional art forms such as tory of Saint Lucia, various cul- The program, hosted by the Folk Research Centre, enables students to understand and the masquerade and has existed tural icons, their contributions appreciate their cultural heritage for well over six years. Floreta Marquis honored by Folk Ministry launched ‘stay alive’ campaign! Research Centre and Alliance Francaise loreta Marquis, the late ‘chant- committee of the FRC, led by Laurent welle’ from Canaries, was JnPierre, produced a Kwéyòl poetry Fhonored when the FRC and competition which was very suc- Alliance Francaise stage their annu- cessful. This ran for three years. In al Music, Story-telling and Kwéyòl 2014, excerpted readings of a Kwéyòl Poetry Fiesta on Wednesday (21st translation of Derek Walcott’s Ti Jean October)at the Alliance Francaise’s and his brothers by Allan Weekes, Pyramid at Point Seraphine. was produced by Travis Weekes, re- The music of Floreta Marquis placing the poetry competition. was presented by the James This year, the Kwéyòl lan- Brothers (led by Martin James guage committee produced the and including violinist Yannick poetry section of the evening’s James) and her songs sung by lo- programme under the theme of cal calypsonian Ready. ‘Mango’. Poets and singers includ- The FRC and Alliance have been ed Nintus and Ready, with writ- collaborating from 2009 on this ers Dr. Adrian Augier, Ashanti programme. Prescott, Alcess Ismael, Ras Isley The event has presented local and George ‘Fish’ Alphonse. musicians, some well-known, oth- This year, excerpted readings of Al- ers new; story tellers and Kwéyòl lan Weekes’ translation of the Greek The media, artistes and young people are called to amplify the peculiar vulnerabilities, risks and poetry. It has become a popular, play Antigone into Kwéyòl was also devastating impacts of climate change on Small Island Developing States. standing-room only event during produced by Travis Weekes. Creole Heritage Month in October. The popular Pin Jook was the clarion call is being communities at risk due to the ure to speak out may result in a From 2011 the Kwéyòl language featured Kwéyòl story teller. made for media work- flooding. destructive future for younger Aers, young people and The regional campaign was generations. Jacmel Birthday Memorial Service for Sir Dunstan artistes to join a regional move- developed with the intention The 1pointfivetostayalive cam- ment to amplify the peculiar to spur urgent action and advo- paign will provide support to he newly formed Dunstan St. nick James and Anwar Leonty. vulnerabilities, risks and dev- cate to the industrial capitals of artistes, young people and the Omer Art Foundation and During the JounenKwéyòl – astating impacts of climate the world - the main drivers of media who support individual Tthe Hon Derek Walcott have style mini-fiesta following the change on Small Island Devel- climate change - to keep global productions and linkages with teamed up to celebrate the memory service there will be dance per- oping States (SIDS) like Saint temperature rise below 1.5 de- global initiatives, via a dedicat- of the late Hon Sir Dunstan St. Omer formances by students of the Lucia. grees Celsius. ed website www.1point5.info, who died on the 5th May this year. Marigot Secondary School and On October 8, Saint Lucia Saint Lucia`s Minister for and grant funding provided by On his birthday, Saturday, Octo- the Claralight Quadrille & Tradi- launched a Regional Climate Sustainable Development, En- the Global Environment Facility ber 24th 2015, St. Lucians are be- tional Dance Group of Choiseul, Justice Campaign titled “1point- ergy, Science and Technology Small Grants Programme (GEF ing invited to a memorial service songs by the students of the Anse la Raye Infant School and Ethan fivetostayalive” which calls for Sen. Hon. Dr. James Fletcher SGP). and pre-Jounen Kwéyòl mini- fiesta at the Jacmel Church and Fletcher, Story telling by Pin Jo’k a temperature increase allow- said history has chronicled The website will include music grounds from 9.00a.m. to 2.00pm. and music by the Roseau Com- ance of no more than 1.5 de- the influential power of Carib- videos, multimedia packs, me- Plans are to make this an annu- bined School Band and the Jacmel grees Celsius. bean artistes and musicians dia support, live blogging peti- al Kwéyòl Heritage Month event Community Band. If global temperatures con- in communicating the cli- tions and rallies with the goal at the Jacmel R.C. Church which The Folk Research Centre en- tinue to rise beyond 1.5 degrees mate justice message from the of demanding a legally-binding houses one of St. Omer’s most fa- courages the public to support Celsius, Saint Lucia and other smallest villages to the widest climate change agreement at the mous murals. this new event on the Kwéyòl Caribbean countries will be global audience. 21st United Nations Framework The day will begin with a memo- Heritage Month calendar. devastated by an increase in Local artiste and climate Convention on Climate Change rial service at 9.00am which includes The Folk Research Centre had de- extreme weather events like change advocate Kendall Hip- Conference of Parties (UNFCCC performances by Natannia St. Omer clared Sir Dunstan St.Omer a Na- hurricanes, intense heat and ployte said the time for action COP 21) slated for Paris in De- (dancing to “O Paradis”), Ronald tional Cultural Hero in 2007 at a cere- sea level rise, putting coastal is now. He warned that the fail- cember 2015. “Boo” Hinkson, Derek Walcott, Yan- mony held at the Jacmel R.C. Church. Saturday October 17, 2015 NationWIDE Page 11 TEPA Chairman to attend Agribusiness Conference in Italy Social Protection and resh from addressing gov- ed to discuss the best ways to Agriculture: ernment and business lead- promote investments that seize ers at a Business Sympo- the opportunities offered by re- siumF and Innovation Forum held gional and international trade, Breaking the Cycle on October 8, 2015, in St. Kitts, and how to best tackle the chal- the CEO of Baron Foods Limited, lenges ahead. Mr. Ronald Ramjattan, has been The Baron Foods Limited CEO invited by the European Com- will take part in the first part of of Rural Poverty mission to participate in an Agri- the conference, the Workshops, (Following is the full text of the Message to business forum in Milan, Italy. on October 14, 2015, at NH Mi- Mr. Ramjattan left Saint Lucia lano Congress Centre. the Nation by Agriculture Minister Moses today for the event. The conclusions of the Work- Jn Baptiste to commemorate World Food The October 14-15, 2015 confer- shops will be presented at a Day on October 16, 2015) ence has as its theme: “Agribusi- high level political seminar on ness investments in partnership the following day at the EU pa- orld Food Day with farmers’ organisations in vilion at the World Expo. (WFD) is ob- ACP countries”. Baron Foods CEO and TEPA The high level seminar will served in more It has been organized by the Chairman Ronald Ramjattan be web-streamed and recorded W than 150 countries around European Commission, in part- and will be available on the the globe and is celebrated nership with the African Union The aim of the conference is to webpage of the conference. on October 16 every year. Commission, the ACP Secre- engage stakeholders and part- Mr. Ramjattan has also been The date coincides with the tariat, the Pan African Farmers’ ners to work on a common vision invited to the cocktail reception founding anniversary of Organization (PAFO), the Euro- for agribusiness investments in hosted by the European Com- the Food and Agriculture pean Investment Bank, the CO- ACP countries in partnership missioner for agriculture and Organization (FAO) – the LEACP and the Technical Cen- with farmers’ organisations. rural development, Mr, Phil Ho- UN’s leading group bat- tre for Agricultural and Rural Mr. Ramjattan, along with gan, on 14 October, 2015, at NH tling the eternal struggle Cooperation (CTA). other participants, are expect- Milano Congress Centre. against hunger and malnu- trition. This global event is de- Small and medium business leaders met in St. Lucia signed to increase aware- ness, understanding and informed year-around ac- ntrepreneurs, owners, op- tion to alleviate hunger. erators and managers of Hon, Moses Jn Baptiste small to medium firms Issues relating to poverty, E nutrition and unemploy- ducing food, maintaining from across the region will meet here from Wednesday to adopt a ment are usually high- rural stability and reducing strategy aimed at strengthening lighted during a week of poverty. entrepreneurship and boost job consultations and review The Government of Saint creation across 14 Caribbean Com- worldwide. Lucia will continue to pro- munity (CARICOM) countries. The theme for this year’s vide social protection to The three-day Entrepreneurial World Food Day celebra- our vulnerable citizens. Ecosystem Development Work- tion is “Social Protection Agricultural producers, shop and Business Incubator Financial accounting stock market graphs analysis and Agriculture: breaking who reside in the rural Management (BIM) Training the cycle of rural poverty”. communities and inner city forms part of a series of training “Caribbean demonstrates a natu- The highlight of the work- Social protection is a areas, will continue to be sessions, designed to build an in- ral inclination towards innova- shop will be a panel discussion blend of policies, pro- specifically targeted as they tegrated ecosystem of support for tion and entrepreneurship. on “Building a Strong Intercon- grammes and interven- will be required to continue early-stage entrepreneurs in the “People here work hard to build nected Start-up Community in St tions that aim at protecting to produce food. region. products, design new technology Lucia”. poor and food-insecure Schools will continue to The workshop is part of the Ac- and offer services very attractive Panelists will discuss a collabor- people and to lift them out receive special attention celerate Caribbean regional incu- to even overseas markets, yet so ative approach to building a sus- of poverty and hunger. through our Improved bation support programme de- many small businesses do not tainable ecosystem for entrepre- Being food-secure means School Feeding Programme signed by the World Bank Group, survive more than a few years,” neurship and innovation in Saint that we must always be able where schools are being InfoDev, to strengthen innova- she noted. Lucia. Participants will discuss to get the food we need for connected to farmers in a tion, entrepreneurship and job Pipia said Accelerate Caribbean principles and good practices of an active and healthy life. more sustainable relation- creation across CARICOM. is offering training in incubation business incubation, business in- This year's WFD puts ship. The workshop will bring togeth- management to qualified pro- cubator models, as well as compo- the spotlight on the con- Aside from all the social fessionals and business support nents of a successful incubator. er incubator managers, entrepre- nection between hunger protection programs, this neurs, academics, government companies in the Eastern Carib- Following the workshop, the and enhancing agriculture year’s celebration seeks to officials, the media, donors and bean “to mitigate against this low Accelerate Caribbean team will through social protection gather multi-sector support investors. business survival rate, which is deliver a Business Incubation towards zero poverty. towards agricultural food Team Leader of Accelerate Ca- critical to job creation and devel- Management (BIM) Training on In Saint Lucia, social pro- ribbean, Natalia Pipia, said the opment in the region”. October 15 & 16 production; encourage co- tection programmes have operation among develop- been established for many ing countries towards food years and continue to ben- security; increase the par- efit those who require sup- ticipation of rural residents Accelerate Caribbean jumpstarts port. in policies that directly af- Our On-Farm Labour fect their lives; and further Support Programme con- strengthen international business incubators in St. Lucia tinues to provide farmers solidarity against food in- with assistance at the farm security. ccelerate Caribbean, tomorrow” she identified the J.Q. and host country St. Lucia. management and produc- We must continue to work the regional entrepre- Charles Group, Bay Gardens Re- Steven Koltai, Lead Mentor tion levels. together to make sure hun- neurship development sorts and the CIE Group of Com- for the Accelerate Caribbean As a result of that inter- ger is recognized as a critical A vention, farmers who have problem, and to ensure that programme of infodev (The panies as exemplifying this ideal. Project, echoed the Minister’s World Bank group) launched Underscoring the importance sentiments.He told the gather- received support recorded our beloved country will be its second regional Business of government support for the ing: “There is no single thing increase in yields and ac- able to face all the challenges Incubation Management (BIM) growth of the business sector, you can do to spur entrepre- companying increase in- and be victorious. Training and Entrepreneurial Minister Hippolyte said the neurship. All activities must be comes. Their families I wish our most valued Development Workshop at The time has come for us to move woven together to create pro- benefit from the impact of farmers, fishers and agri- Royal by Rex Resorts in Rodney away from the myth of the “self- grammes that move the needle the assistance by way of culturists in general, a pro- Bay, St. Lucia on Wednesday. made entrepreneur.” in bolstering the entrepreneur- availability of financial re- ductive World Food Day Speaking at the opening She cited the need for policy ship ecosystem.” sources to purchase house- 2015. hold necessities, materials ceremony, St. Lucia’s Com- and legislative reform and the Koltai went on to clarify that To all our beloved citizens for school and food. merce Minister, Hon. Emma nurturing of an entrepreneurial this often doesn’t mean more and visitors, I hope you A significant number of had a fun-filled day, as you Hippolyte,described the Accel- culture among our youth. She funding, but rather, deliberate farmers, fishers and mem- joined the Ministry of Ag- erate Caribbean Project as time- also called for the elimination planning and greater coordina- bers of our cooperatives riculture, Food Production, ly and necessary for the island’s of silos and the need to create tion to grow start-ups. He noted receive assistance through Fisheries, Cooperatives and emerging economy, especially greater synergies among public that most entrepreneurs are programmes that target Rural Development and the the small business sector. sector agencies in particular. self-funding and the traditional the vulnerable. Parents international community She called for a significant ‘cul- The Minister’s impassioned banking system is not designed, of children who are chal- in celebrating World Food ture change’ from competition message resonated with the nor inclined to provide funding lenged receive assistance Day 2015. based entrepreneurship to col- diverse audience of business to start-ups. for the purchase of school All the best for success in laboration based entrepreneur- enablers, government officials, Noting that Entrepreneurship is books, uniforms and for all your endeavors and let’s ship, so that small and medium representativesof business sup- not viewed favourably – especial- the payment of school fees. continue to highlight the enterprises (SMEs) on the island port organizations, and entre- ly in developing countries – Kol- All those programmes al- importance of social pro- and the region can strengthen preneurs – some of whom trav- tai said it is imperative that suc- low our people to manage tection in ending poverty their capacity, access capital and elled to St. Lucia for the event. cessful entrepreneurs tell their the risks involved as they and food insecurity around business opportunities. The 3-day exercise brings to- stories, in order to inspire others navigate their roles pro- the world. Noting that “the small business gether participants from Barba- to explore their own business of today is the mega company of dos, Belize, , Dominica ideas and pursue their dreams. Page 12 NationWIDE Saturday October 17, 2015 Simon Bolivar in Saint Lucia!

hen the Venezuelan Navy’s ‘Ambassador Without Bor- ders’ paid its recent visit to Saint Lucia, it was more than Wjust a call by another beautiful vessel. This one was quite different. It’s cargo was a full complement of messengers of world peace and solidarity, taking the Bolivarian message of Caribbean and Latin American unity and integration to the rest of the world. It was its 27th overseas training course for the 170 cadets, officers and sailors of the Bolivarian Navy on board. On its four-month Caribbean tour it had been to through the Caribbean Sea, visit- ing Barbados, Belize, Jamaica, Honduras, Bahamas and be- fore St. Lucia became its final port of call. While here they played football against local cadets, visited Pigeon island and climbed the Gros Piton. The ship was visited by the Governor general and Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers and government officials, dip- lomats and members of the public. But the most enjoyable time was always had by the several groups of students from various schools. And for the visiting Venezuelan navy sailors aboard the ‘Simon Bolivar’ was when the joined the Mayor of Castries Shir- ley Lewis and a brigade from the Royal saint Lucia police Force at Place Bideau in Castries to pay tribute to the Liberator Simon Bo- livar and his saint Lucian fiend and captain Jean Baptiste Bideau. The photos on this page recall the visit by ‘Simon Bolivar’ before the Bolivarian President arrived here today. ‘Simon Bolivar’ berthed majestically alongside The Pyramid at the Pointe Seraphine cruise ship complex during its four-day stay.

Her Excellency the Governor General Dame Prime Minister Dr Kenny D. Anthony Pearlette Louisy visited the visiting ship and (centre) and Saint Lucia’s Ambassador to was welcomed by the Captain, Chief Officer ALBA and PetroCaribe Eustace Vitalis (at and the Venezuelan Ambassador to saint left) also visited the ‘Simon Bolivar’ while Lucia Leiff Escalona (2nd from left). berthed at Pointe Seraphine.

Students from Carmen Renee Memorial School waved the crew of ‘Simon Bolivar’ on arrival and departure at Pointe Seraphine.

The Venezuelan sailors, soldiers, officers and cadets of the ‘Simon Bolivar’ took time off The visiting Venezuelans joined their local counterparts and friends for a refreshing while here to join local cadets and staff of the Venezuelan Embassy to climb the Gros bath at Torelle Waterfall at the Botanical Gardens in Soufriere. Piton and fly the two friendly nations’ flags.

Castries Mayor Shirley Lewis (right) and Venezuelan Ambassador Leiff Escalona (and from right) joined Venezuelan naval officers and the Saint Lucia Cadet Corps to pay floral tribute at the busts of Liberator Simon Bolivar and Saint Lucian Jean Baptiste The captain and crew of the visiting Bolivarian ‘Ambassador without Borders’ Bideau at Place Bideau (Bideau park) in the city. performed voluntary work while here, including cleaning-up an area of overgrown grass.