Source document: https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1698077370991.pdf (Saint Lucia)
NationWIDE THE OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUCIA NationWIDE SATURDAY JANUARY 9, 2016 WEEKLY From Instability to Recovery: Here’s to a Happy 2016!

Saint Lucia has started 2016 with all the hopes and wishes that this Leap Year will see continuing growth of confidence in the country and continued economic growth, as started last year.

Tourism continues to be as important to the economy as ever and the cruise ships continue to come.
But 2016 will also require continuing efforts to ensure that other sectors also play better and more improved roles in national development.

There will continue to be challenges, as usual.

But there will also be opportunities.

Hard and tough decisions will have to be taken, but the fruits will continue to be had and enjoyed by all.

Predications for the global and regional economies are not very bright.
But Saint Lucia, like every nation, will have to continue to take those steps that will ensure that people’s needs continue to be addressed continually.

For four years, Nationwide has been by your side, every week updating the nation, the region and the world on the doings and sayings of the Government of Saint Lucia, for and on behalf of all the People of Saint Lucia.
We pledge to continue to be at your side for all of 2016, continuing to fulfill our mission of informing all of all we can, about the continuing efforts of the Government of Saint Lucia, day by day, week by week, month by month, for the rest of 2016.

Meanwhile, as always, enjoy this first e-Edition of Nationwide and don’t forget to view NationwideTV on NTN and browse the Nationwide Website at nationwidestlucia.com Happy Reading!

Happy Viewing!

Happy Browsing!


PM Says Retired ECCB Governor Left An Extraordinary Legacy!

- Page 2 n New 300-Room Royalton Hotel Under Construction at Cap Estate - Page 3 Citizenship by Investment Program Activated - Page 3 Wellness Centre and NEMO HQ Hooked into PV Solar Systems - Page 4 Assou Square Returned Home With A Bang!
- Pages 6 and 7 Sod Turned for Fond Assau Playing Field Mini Pavilion and Changing Room - Back Page E S I D T’S I N A H W Saturday January 9, 2016 Editorial Here’s to a Happy New Year!

2016 is finally here – and the Government has pledged to continue doing better.

and so are the reviews of 2015 and the pre- dictions for the next 366 days of this Leap Year.

Last year was a very eventful one no matter how it’s looked at.
The Government faced chal- lenges but proceeded to diligently address the cru- cial matter of balancing the nation’s books.

Detrac- tors concentrated on the negatives while the Gov- ernment continued along the path of positively turn- ing the economy around, slowly but surely.

The nation is surely mov- ing out of the deep dark this administration inher- ited in 2006 and closer to- wards the visible light.
Prime Minister and Min- ister of Finance Dr Kenny D. Anthony has handled the nation’s financial and economic affairs these past four years to deliver on his promise to turn things around during his party’s current term in office.

At the very start in 2007, he made it clear the road would be long and hard things would get and worse before they got bet- ter, but promised that bet- ter would come.
Today, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) ac- knowledges that under his leadership the country has emerged from the negative and entered into positive growth mode.

Saint Lucia has emerged from instability in 2006 to recovery in 2015 and all eyes and ears are on 2016.

Everyone hopes for better It has been able to so mar- shal the nation’s finances as to ensure that the social needs of the most needy persons are not compro- mised by the necessary fi- nancial haircuts.
All social programs have remained in place for the sick, the elderly and the challenged, physically home care has been ex- students, tended, more teachers and principal have received free laptop computers, more parents have been receiving bur- saries and assistance for books.

Confidence has been investors restored with invest again willing to here and international lenders again willing to fi- nance major projects here with certainty.

This year will be a crucial one, whether elections are called or not.
The date of the General Elections is not as important, however, as the preparedness of people to participate meaningful- ly in the process.

Here’s hoping this will be the year when Saint Lu- cians will most recognize that the country continues to be in the best hands it can be.

And here’s hoping that we all will do all we can to ensure that this year sees us rallying as a nation to preserve and protect the gains scored over the past four years.

Happy New Year, Saint Lucia!


Page 2 NationWIDE PM says retired ECCB Governor left An Extraordinary Legacy!

An extraordinary era ended at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) with the retirement of long-serving Governor, Sir Kenneth Dwight Vincent Venner, in December 2015.

Sir Dwight, a 2012 recipient of the Saint Lucia Cross, had served the St. Kitts and Nevis-based insti- tution in that capacity since 1989.
Before that, he was Director of Finance and Planning in the Gov- ernment of Saint Lucia from 1981.

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, Plan- ning and Social Security, Hon.

Dr. Kenny D. Anthony has loudly praised Sir Dwight’s stewardship of the ECCB, noting the “deep concern and anxiety” the vet- eran administrator always had for ordinary citizens.Dr.
Anthony wrote a letter to Sir Dwight in which he said: “On behalf of the Government and People of Saint Lucia and on my personal behalf, I thank you for the years of selfless and dedi- cated service that you have given to the Central Bank and the peo- ple of our region.

Sir K. Dwight Venner “There can be no question that you have departed from the bank leaving behind an extraordinary legacy.

“Few, if any, could match your passion and commitment to our region.
“You gave us not just ad- ministrative leadership but also intellectual leadership.

“I have always been impressed by your fierce protection of the integrity and independence of the bank.

You led with vision and integrity.

“You can, I believe, take justifi- able pride and satisfaction in the fact that you helped this region to navigate through one of the most intractable financial crises ever to sweep our region.
“Your stern but focused leadership was an as- set to all of us who have been en- trusted with the leadership of our region.

“Your understanding of our environment and our unique circumstances, helped us to man- age as well as we did, the turbu- lent economic conditions that we faced.” “It is true that we may not have always agreed on monetary and fiscal policy, but there is no occasion that I have found my- self doubting the sincerity of the advice that you offered.
I will al- ways remember the deep concern and anxiety that you had for the welfare of the ordinary citizens of our region.” The Prime Minister concluded by wishing Sir Dwight well in his retirement.

Dr. Anthony sits with the other Ministers of Finance of ECCB member governments on the Monetary Council, the bank’s highest decision making author- ity, most recently having assumed the chair in 2013.

CTO Declares 2016: Year of Romance in the Caribbean!
With the start of the New Year comes the launch of a new initiative by the Caribbean Tourism Organiza- tion (CTO) – 2016 The Year of Ro- mance in the Caribbean – which celebrates everything romantic about the region.

Through the campaign, CTO and its member countries and hotels will highlight the Carib- bean as the leading choice for a romance vacation for consumers and travel planners selling the region.
“With over 30 destinations to choose from, the Caribbean re- gion provides the perfect back- drop for a romantic getaway highlighted by pristine beaches, secluded accommodations, an abundance of land and water activities, top-notch spa services and personalized attention that meets the needs of the most dis- cerning traveler,” said Hugh Ri- ley, secretary general of CTO.
“The Year of Romance in the Ca- ribbean will spotlight the roman- tic features of our region beyond the traditional times of year such as Valentine’s Day.

A romantic theme is easily embraced by all of our member destinations 365 days a year,” Riley noted.
Throughout the year, CTO in cooperation with its private sec- tor partner the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association; will assist member countries with an assort- ment of ideas which can be im- plemented around the theme of romance to appeal to consumers, travel agents and tour operators.
Innovative ideas will be devel- oped around the following: Saint Lucia’s growing tourist wedding industry may soon have to compete with at least 29 other Caribbean destinations, according to a new CTO plan to attract lovers from across the world to marry in the Caribbean.
First-time or second-time mar- riages and the renewal of vows; The most romantic locations to “pop the question” or to say “I do”; Inviting celebrity couples to get married in the Caribbean; Revisits by cou- ples who were married or honey- mooned in the Caribbean; Couples celebrating milestone anniversa- ries; and Gift Registries of romantic vacations in the Caribbean.
“We anticipate that in addi- tion to the ideas we provide our members, the countries and ho- tels will develop their own plan of action for promoting romance in their individual destinations,” said Riley, adding: “The theme is inclusive of our partners, both public- and private-sector.

Ca- ribbean hotels, travel agents and tour operators are urged to create their own romantic ideas or adopt ones being embraced by the des- tinations.
“We envision airline partners getting involved with their own ‘love is in the air’ offers and rec- ognizing bridal parties onboard who are heading to a destination wedding in the Caribbean.
We think video bloggers too will get involved in featuring the winners of the most romantic ideas.” CTO envisions 2016 The Year of Romance in the Caribbean as a cat- alyst for sellers and promoters of weddings and honeymoons, bridal publications and websites as well as wedding planners and service providers at the destination end.
2016 The Year of Romance in the Caribbean will be promoted through social media and tradi- tional media channels and will create opportunities for travelers and vacation planners to share their experiences and ideas of a romantic Caribbean vacation throughout 2016.
Saturday January 9, 2016 NationWIDE Former ‘Smugglers’ giving way to new upscale property New 300-room Royalton Hotel under construction at Cap Estate Prime Minister and Minis- ter for Finance, Economic Affairs, Planning and Social Security Dr. Kenny D. Anthony says he is exceedingly pleased with the commence- ment of construction on the ho- tel to replace the former “Smug- glers Cove Resort and Spa” in Cap Estate, Gros Islet.

The former property was to- tally demolished to pave the way for the new hotel.
Contractors have been en- gaged and some two hundred workers have been employed in preparing foundation works.

The Prime Minister said he ex- pected the number of workers to in- crease as construction progresses.

"This investment is welcome news for our economy, for our workers and for their families.

Every single job counts at this time.” The new hotel, upon comple- tion, will be known as the “Roy- alton” and will offer over 300 rooms.

Completion is scheduled for fall 2016.


Page 3 Construction of the hotel is expected to be completed by Fall 2016 Taiwan to launch free e-Visa for visiting Saint Lucians next week Taiwan will next week as well as for visiting relatives and attending international conferences or sporting events in Taiwan.

Affairs (BOCA) of the ROC (Tai- wan) Ministry of Foreign Af- fairs at www.boca.gov.tw.

sessed and found to meet the relevant criteria.

for a related visa at the Taiwan Embassy here.


make it much easier for Saint Lucians wishing to travel to the Asian island.

The Taiwan Embassy here has an- nounced that the Taiwan gov- ernment will launch a free e- Visa service for Saint Lucians, starting Tuesday 12th January, 2016.

An e-Visa is an alternative to the usual paper-based visa.
Applicants here will fill an on- line visa application form on the website of Bureau of Consular Normally, applicants will also be required to submit relevant personal information and pay the required fee (if applicable) by credit card (MasterCard or Visa).

However, the embassy has pointed out that Saint Lu- cians will not be charged.
The Taiwan embassy says the e-Visa will be issued free to Saint Lucians after the submit- ted information has been as- Citizenship by Investment Program activated The Citizenship by Invest- ment Program (CIP) is now officially under way.

Government has started accept- ing applications from January 1, as earlier indicated.

Launched at the Bay Gardens hotel last week, the program heard from key players including Prime Minister Dr Kenny D. Anthony and Chairman of the CIP Board Dr Ernest Hilaire.
The Prime Minister, who first formally announced the pro- gram in Monaco at a Global Citizens Forum last October, said at the local launch that the program is to help stabilize the economy.

He said in the absence of an investment flow of more desir- able proportions and following the worse financial crisis saint Lucia has known, new ways have to be found to bridge the financial and economic gaps.
The Prime Minister also noted that despite the opposi- tion leader’s current criticism of the program, the legislation establishing it was supported in parliament without political rancor, with the blessing of both the government and opposition sides in parliament.

The program will seek to sell 500 economic citizenship pass- ports in the first instance and the proceeds will be used to fund construction of the Cas- tries-to-Gros Islet Highway.
CIP funds raised will also go towards construction of the new East Coast Highway linking Gros Islet to Vieux Fort through Babonneau.

Careless drivers warned of new measures to reduce accidents Chief Transport Officer out the island to be more careful and thoughtful on the road.

Lenita Joseph is warning that tough new measures will be taken in this New Year to address the increase in the num- ber of avoidable road accidents.
Ms Lenita Joseph notes that there’s “a big difference” be- tween “operating” and “driv- ing” a vehicle.

The chief transport officer says she doesn’t think drivers are taking road safety seriously at all and it means that very strict measures will have to be put in place to address the matter.

She revealed that a sub-com- mittee on road safety has been put in place and will soon be implementing some actions.
Miss Joseph says the num- ber of collisions is a cause for worry, not just for the transport department, but especially for the Traffic Officers who have brought it to the ministry’s at- tention.

She explained that even in the Bexon where some traffic regu- lating devices were erected, persons are still not being cau- tious.
The chief transport officer is also calling on drivers through- She explained that “Driving requires that drivers be atten- tive to not just operating the vehicle, but also to what is go- ing on around them, looking to see who is crossing the road and checking rear view and side mirrors ever so often.” The chief transport officer la- mented that is “too much care- lessness on the roads, with too many motorists speeding un- necessarily.” She revealed that while the number of road deaths in 2015 was less than 2014, “the num- bers are still too high.” Ms Joseph noted too that “Col- lisions are a source of trauma, not only for the persons involved and their relatives, but also for the Emergency Responders who have to attend to every emergen- cy and every accident.
The e-Visa will be valid for three months starting from the issue date and is a single-entry visa for maximum of 30 days in Taiwan, which cannot be ex- tended.
e-Visas are only granted for tourism and business purposes, intends Applicant who to travel to Taiwan for other pur- poses — such as employment, study, residence with family or for Mandarin language courses -- must submit an application Standard Operating Procedures for e-Visa Applications Furthermore, foreign nationals who have been invited to attend international conferences or ac- tivities in Taiwan — organized, co- organized, or sponsored by central government agencies or certain nongovernmental organizations are also eligible for an e-Visa.
1 Fill out an online visa application form on the BOCA website 2 Select eVisa and submit your application 3 Pay the visa fee by credit card 4 Await confirmation 5 Receive confirmation by email email 6 Print out the eVisa to enter Taiwan Exhibition to ‘Reassemble Our Archaeological Past’ An archaeological exhi- bition will open on 14 January 2016 at the Al- liance Française de Sainte-Lucie at Point Seraphine, Castries.
(People Engaging in Your Inter- est), Saint Lucia National Archives (SLNA) and Alliance Française de Sainte-Lucie, with the collabora- tion of private collectors, under the theme “Reassembling St. Lu- cia’s archaeological fragments”.

The event will feature, among other things, short presenta- tions by SLNA, PÉYI, poet Kendel Hippolyte and a guest archaeologist from Guadeloupe.
This is an ‘interrogative’ exhibi- tion being undertaken by PÉYI The exhibition will run from January 14th to February 14th, under the auspices of the Di- rector of Alliance Française de Sainte-Lucie.
The organizers say the ex- hibition seeks to raise public awareness, particularly among the youth, of the importance of protecting our bio-cultural pat- rimony, establishing a National Museum in St. Lucia, the work of SLNA and to familiarize the public with the artifacts of St. Lucia’s pre-Columbian era con- tained in the island’s checkered history Two new three-storey classroom blocs coming soon to Choiseul Secondary The Construction of two new three-storey class- room blocks to provide new accommodation for the Choiseul Secondary School has moved one step closer as the Invitation for Bids notice has been advertised.
following This comes as very good news for the teachers, stu- dents and parents of students.

The need for this project arose when the 2007 Earthquake, Hurricane Tomas and other natural events of the past few years, causing dam- age to blocks B and C at that institution, which caused the affected buildings to become structurally unsound.
The new buildings will ac- commodate 12 classrooms, a sickbay with toilet facilities, a resource room, a Techni- cal Drawing Room, students ‘ washrooms, an Information Technology Lab, an Electronic Document Preparation and Management Laboratory, Phys- ics and Chemistry laboratories, as well as a prep room, a music room and a theatre room.

The total construction area is approximately 34,330.95 sq.
ft. A sight like this will soon adorn the site for the two new building blocs that will be constructed to replace damaged structures.

This project is one of many similar projects being under- taken under the Disaster Vul- nerability Reduction Project (DVRP).
The DVRP programme is funded by the World Bank and its objectives are to measurably reduce St. Lucia’s vulnerability to natural hazards and climate change impacts through urgent risk mitigation measures and by strengthening St. Lucia’s capac- ity to understand and manage disaster risks.

Bidding will be conducted through the National Compet- itive Bidding procedures, as specified in the World Bank’s Guidelines.
Interested bidders can ob- tain additional information from the Project Coordina- tion Unit of the Department of Planning and National De- velopment, 5th Floor Conway Business Centre, Waterfront, Castries.

The deadline for re- ceipt of bids is February 23rd 2016.
Page 4 NationWIDE Saint Lucia increases renewable energy use Wellness centre and NEMO HQ hooked into PV solar systems The National Mental Well- onstrate their commitment to greenhouse gas reductions de- spite their negligible contribu- tions to global warming.

Saturday January 9, 2016 ness Centre (NMWC) and the headquarters of the National Emergency Manage- ment Organization (NEMO) have been equipped with pho- tovoltaic (PV) systems allowing them to tap into the renewable energy of the sun.
The development is in keep- ing with government`s policy direction to increase electric- ity generation from renewable resources by 35 percent by the year 2020, while reducing en- ergy consumption in the public sector by 20 percent over the same period.

The transition to renewable energy sources is a fundamen- tal component of the energy security and price stability thrust of the Government of Saint Lucia.
Renewable energy technolo- gies such as photovoltaic sys- tems also help Small Island Developing States (SIDS) dem- Global greenhouse gas emis- sions are cited as the primary cause of climate change.

The implementation of the sys- tems at the NMWC and NEMO is an important achievement in the work program of the En- ergy, Science and Technology Unit of the Ministry of Sustain- able Development, Energy, Sci- ence and Technology.
“The use of photovoltaic tech- nology is increasing in Saint Lu- cia and now stands at a meager, yet significant, 328 KW of solar roof-top PV," Permanent Secre- tary Sylvester Clauzel said.

"While there are a few demon- stration sites, the time is oppor- tune for great dissemination of the technology particularly on public buildings.
“The need for ready access to energy during times of disas- to span 10 days with over 50 artistes at 15 official venues island-wide At year 25, Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2016 will span a full 10 days.

And upwards of fifteen venues will feature some of the best live performances, spiced with the celebration of Saint Lucian Arts, culture and cuisine.
Revamped, redesigned and with a broadened artistic direc- tion, the Caribbean’s premier cultural event — the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival — will this year again attract thousands to Simply Beautiful Saint Lucia.

The Saint Lucia Tourist Board promises that cultural enthusi- asts, festival lovers and music aficionados will be wooed by over 50 world-acclaimed enter- tainers and artisans over the 10- day festival, which runs from April 29th to May 8th, both days inclusive.
Baron Foods CEO to address CARICOM forum on opportunities for supplying regional agricultural inputs The Chief Executive Officer of Baron Foods Limited, Mr. Ronald Ramjattan, has been invited to address a Community, CARICOM,Regional Planners Forum for Agriculture.

Caribbean The forum will be held from 19 to 22 January at the Grenadian Rex Resort in St. George’s, Gre- nada.
Mr. Ramjattan, one of Saint Lucia’s leading businessmen, has been invited by the CARI- COM Secretariat to participate as a panelist at the Eighth Re- gional Planners Forum for Ag- riculture, to discuss potential opportunities for supplying re- gional agriculture inputs.

Baron Foods Limited, as one of the top manufacturers in the Caribbean region, has a wealth of experience in pursuing intra- CARICOM trade and in sourc- ing inputs from the Region.
Baron Foods CEO Ronald Ramjattan The company, which is head- quartered in Saint Lucia, pro- duces a range of high quality food products that are exported to the Caribbean, North Ameri- ca and Europe.

Baron Foods Limited is al- ready laying the groundwork to supply Islands in the In- dian Ocean, Mexico, Cuba and France during the first quarter of 2016.
Dennery North Road Rehabilitation under way Works to rehabilitate the Ti La Resource Denne- ry North Road are un- der way, having commenced on Monday 4th January 2016.

The works are expected to be completed over a 60 day period and consequently, some traffic interrup- tions and delays are likely to occur.

This road is a very important piece of infrastructure for the Dennery North constituency, as it facilitates vehicular access to the Community Cemetery in Dennery North.
Residents and motorists are advised to pay careful attention to road traffic signs and asked to cooperate.

The Ministry of Infrastruc- ture, Port Services and Trans- port apologizes for any incon- venience caused as a result of these works.

The island builds climate resilience by increasing renewable energy use in the public sector, with the latest upgrades at the National Wellness centre and NEMO Headquarters soon to be commissioned.
ter cannot be overemphasized as interruption of the electric- ity supply can cause significant problems.” PV systems can provide backup power for communities, increas- ing the ability to cope both during and following a disaster event.

The PV system at NEMO has been inspected and approved by LUCELEC.

The system at NMWC has been inspected with certification for the system and building re- ceived in the last quarter of 2015.
These certificates have been forwarded to LUCELEC for sys- tem inspection and final grid connection.

Both systems are expected to be commissioned shortly.

Secure future for After School Program SLHTA contribution to help 1,000 children in 2016 Parents of a thousand students like this across the island are pleased that their children will be able to continue in the After School Care Program for the rest of 2016.
The Ministry of Social Transformation, Local Government and Com- munity Empowerment’s Com- munity After School Program received a generous financial boost thanks to the generosity of the Saint Lucia Hotel & Tour- ism Association, SLHTA.

A checque for $80,000 was presented to Ministry officials recently, in support of the agen- cy’s Community After School Program, CASP.

CASP, which was conceived in 2009, targets at risk youth from disadvantaged communities around the island.
The program offers life skill classes, academic support, sports, agriculture and art & craft classes to students on a scheduled basis.

The SLHTA’s donation came out of the organisation’s Tourism Enhancement Fund which allows it to play an integral part in the sustainable development of Saint Lucia as a tourism destination.

There is also a strong focus on education and hands-on train- ing initiatives for young people to give them a better chance of finding employment within the tourism industry.
The fund is supported by small voluntary fees collected from visitors.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Transforma- tion, Ms. Juliana Alfred, ap- plauded the commitment of the SLHTA's Tourism Enhancement Fund to the program and noted that the Fund had increased their donation by $10,000 from last year.

The donation will en- sure 1,000 students can access the program in 2016.
Turtle Season closed The Ministry of Agricul- ture, Food Production, Fisheries, Co-operatives and Rural Development re- minds the Sea Turtle Fishery has been CLOSED from January 01, 2016 -- and will remain closed until September 30, 2016 both days inclusive.

the public that All harvesting, sale and con- sumption of sea turtle meat ceased at midnight on Decem- ber 31, 2015.
Under the regulations in force, no person shall be allowed to have in their possession or expose for sale any sea turtle meat or shell after the closure of the harvesting period from January 01, 2016.

The Department seeks the pub- lic’s assistance in reporting to the marine police or district police stations any person or establish- ment found with undersized turtles, taking or consuming sea turtle eggs or holding a sea turtle as a pet.
Anyone caught violating the conditions may be fined up to $5,000.00 for each offence.

Saturday January 9, 2016 NationWIDE Page 5 Christmas Reviews and New Year Previews PM looks forward to building on 2015 progress in 2016 The Prime Minister says the NICE Program employed thousands in 2015 and he’s looking forward to delivering even more such good news in 2016.
Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony says his govern- ment made some tan- gible achievements in 2015 and looks forward to building on this prog- ress in 2016.
In his official New Year’s Message, Dr. An- thony said he is “opti- mistic about 2016” and he has every confidence that Saint Lucians will support his government “to continue doing what is best for Saint Lucia.” The Prime Minister said rebuilding a coun- try is no easy task and despite signs of recovery, “there is still a lot more work to be done.” He said however that “if the nation stands together and united, Saint Lucians can keep their country moving surely and steadily forward.
Meanwhile, looking back on 2015, Dr Anthony says “There is much to be proud of because Saint Lucia and its people have come a far way, despite the challenges con- fronted in every situation.” He says in his New Year Message that over the past year his government “has further stabilized the coun- try, brought in record tourism numbers and revenue, and began turning the economy around.” The Prime Minister says the NICE programme created thousands of jobs all across the country last year and 2015 also showed signs that “investment is returning” to saint Lucia.
“And now,” he says, Saint Lucians “are beginning to feel that the future can indeed be better than the present.” Dr Anthony said his gov- ernment has been “bold and strong” and “together with the people, it has made the difference for Saint Lucia’s future.” Dokiman Kweyol Creole documentation project announced for Nobel Laureate Week Local students, young photographers creative and individuals are being given a unique opportunity to make (or at least record) history in the coming days.
The announcement was made by the Office of the Prime Minister as repara- tions are well advanced for celebrations to mark Nobel Laureate Week 2016 in Saint Lucia.

The 23rd annual commem- oration of Sir William Ar- thur Lewis and Hon.

Derek Walcott, the island's two re- cipients of the Nobel Prize, will be held January 17-23.

The theme for 2016 is Cel- ebrating Excellence, Trans- forming Lives.
Among this year's activities, the Nation- al Volunteer Organisation, Volunteer Saint Lucia, is holding a special competi- tion to help document the nation's history, traditions and culture.

The competition, aimed at the country's younger citizenry, is known as ‘Do- kiman Kweyol’.

It will entail persons aged 13 to 35 inter- viewing or photographing older persons in their fami- Volunteer Saint Lucia hosts a special competition which will assist in recording the island's history, traditions and culture.
lies and communities, in order to tell stories about Saint Lucian history.

From tales of community to- getherness, dance, drama, ‘koud- main’, fashion, war, work and play, no subject is off limits.

Participants just need to be able to convey what it was like in "the good old days."

But they must do so entirely in Kweyol.

Winners will be selected in three categories - Best Video, Photogra- phy or Written Documentary.
Videos must be no more than 10 minutes; Photos must be accompa- nied by descriptive captions; and written submissions in Kweyol must be at least 300 words long.

The deadline for all submissions is January 15.

Submissions can be made via email to volunteersaint- lucia@gmail.comor delivered by hand to the Volunteer Saint Lu- cia office on the 5th floor of the Greaham Louisy Building.
Enquiries can be addressed via email or interested persons can call National Volunteer Coordi- nator, Cyril Saltibus, at 484-3244 or 468-2125.

Nobel Laureate Week marks the achievements of Sir Arthur and Hon.

Walcott, who won Nobel Prizes in Economics (1979) and respectively.

(1992), Literature Governor General, Her Excel- lency Dame Pearlette Louisy is chairperson of the Nobel Laure- ate Week Committee.

PM says Police Force Band in ‘Pure, Pure Class!

Prime Minister Dr. Kenny An- the weather though.


People are actually nicer and more pleasant with each other as tension and ani- mosity gives way to “a little more love.” thony says he has many spe- cial memories of Christmas, but his favourite moment this year was when the police band dropped by his home to entertain him.

Below is the PM’s full statement: It’s not just I am sure nearly everyone has spe- cial memories of Christmas.

I have lots of them.

This Christmas was no exception.


Before I share my special experi- ence of this Christmas with you, though, I thought I should tell you how much I love this time of year.

It gets dark early and that gives a nice cozy feeling.

I actually try to get home early from work.

Then the temperature drops.

The hot humid conditions give way to nice, balmy weather.

The nights are cooler as the breezes blow steadily and consistently.

Now I will tell you why this Christmas was special.
Some members of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Band dropped by at my house just before Christ- mas to regale me with some Christmas songs.

The music was sweet and infectious.

Our Police Band is pure, pure class.

I love to see the way the band members interact with each other.

They are a great team.

Needless to tell you, I had a great time.

Thank you for making this Christmas truly special!


Infrastructural and Youth Development projects among MP’s major priorities for Gros Islet in 2016 Parliamentary Representa- tive for Gros Islet, Commerce Minister Emma Hippolyte, has indicated that infrastructural development in the Gros Islet con- stituency is a priority.

The minister made the disclosure at the start of the new year.
In addition to the Choc Bay/Gros Islet Roads Improvement Project, she says, plans are also underway to improve secondary roadways.

These improvements to roads and bridges and proper drainage systems for flood prone areas such as Monier, Trouya, Corinth and Riviere Mittan.
include “The Ministry of Infrastructure being a technical team, has advised that we have to pay attention to the other link roads because, as you can envisage, in constructing a four- lane highway you have to deal with continuous traffic from Gros Islet to Castries.

“That is where the other side roads that bypass the Corinth Road would receive attention," she said.

Youth and sports development is another priority.


Ms Hippolyte said several young people from the constituency are in- volved in a marine training program.

At the end of 2015, Minister Hippolyte announced a capac- ity-building collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the NSDC.

"We are putting a training program together that will train at least 33 young foot- ballers in the area of marine work so they could prepare themselves to work in the yachting sector.
“I am very happy about this because it is an area of concern to me.

When persons are em- ployed, the issues of nutrition and sports are very important."

To date, the Bois d’Orange, Union and Bonne Terre bridg- es are complete.

Other improvement works include the construction of bridges in Asou Kannal and Riviere Mittan.
President of the St. Lucia Chapter of the British Caribbean Chamber of Commerce (BCCC) John Kennedy With the New Year upon us and on behalf of BCCCSL, I take this op- portunity to wish you peace and prosperity for the year ahead.

As we reflect on the year that has past we can take satisfaction in the establishment of the British Carib- bean Chamber of Commerce in Saint Lucia and what we have been able to achieve in a short amount of time.
We were delighted that with the support and cooperation of RISE, Dr Stephen King, Shelley Ann Noon and Dr Bird, the Chamber was able to as- sist in the placement of over 40 full tu- ition fee scholarships for Saint Lucia.

In addition in the latter part of the year, through the British High Commis- sion, we were able to announce that the number of Foreign Office Chevening Scholarships had been doubled.

The Chamber also welcomed Lord Howard as it’s Patron.
A member of the Privy Council, former Home Secretary and Leader of the UK Conservative Party, Lord Howard brings a wealth of experience and contacts, both of which will help open doors to new bi-lateral initiatives and investment.

At our launch Party, earlier in the year, we were honoured by the sup- port we received from across the Island, both amongst the business and political communities.
Her Ex- cellency the Governor General was joined by the Speaker of the Senate, the Speaker of Parliament, the Prime BCCCC Saint Lucia John Kennedy says his private sector entity is proud to be at work in Saint Lucia and also very pleased with the cooperation with and from public officials here.

Minister, Leader of the Opposi- tion, Cabinet Ministers, Leader of the United Workers Party and others, all of whom joined us in showing their commit- ment to promoting Saint Lucia as a place for business.
In the year ahead we will continue with this work.

We will support British inves- tors with an eye to this Island and to Saint Lucian entrepre- neurs who see opportunity in the United Kingdom.

On behalf of the Board of the British Caribbean Cham- ber of Commerce, Saint Lu- cia, it is with pleasure and confidence that I wish all a happy and prosperous 2016.

Page 6 NationWIDE Saturday January 9, 2016 Saturday January 9, 2016 NationWIDE Page 7 From Columbus to Walcott ASSOU SQUARE RETURNED HOME WITH A BANG!
The reviews have started and despite a few minor incidents, organizers of the 2016 Assou Square festival have described the three-day event as suc- cessful.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Anastatious Mason says barring one and two incidents, this year’s activity was relatively quiet.

The senior police official said a few persons were arrested for minor infractions of theft, slight wounding and one robbery.

However, nobody was seriously injured in any of these incidents.
There was also high police presence at almost every street corner and, entrance and exists.

Those who went have said this year’s event was better organized and many hailed the arrival of the new tents.

Creative Industries Consultant, Christopher Hunte, says the tents served as a great visual improvement to Assou Square 2016 and also provided a better environment for vendors.
Organizers had agreed to extend the event from two days to three instead, because of complaints by vendors that they needed the extra day to break even.

The return of the square to its original place of birth some 75 years ago was welcomed even before New Year’s Day, with the introduction of the uni- form white tents that surrounded The Square.
Throughout the three days adults and children alike enjoyed the atmosphere, which was even better coordinated this year after the return of the ac- tivity to its birthplace in January 2015.

The police and other stakeholders are expected to provide a full review of the event soon.

Meanwhile, as the photos in this spread indicate, Assou Square 2016 was enjoyed by all!
Page 8 NationWIDE Saturday January 9, 2016 M Y Y Highlights & Photographs by Tedburt Theobalds (c) 2015 Saturday January 9, 2016 NationWIDE The 2015 NICE NAPP Graduation Roads to Success are Always Under Construction!
Page 9 Following is the full text of the address delivered at the NICE Graduation on 17 December 2015 by Ms Estellita Renee, Chairperson of the St. Lucia Council for Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) It is indeed an honour and privilege for me to address you on this momentous occasion of your 2015 Graduation Cer- emony.
This ceremony, of the National Apprentice- ship and Placement Pro- gramme (NAPP), is being hosted by the National Initiative to Create Em- ployment (NICE), under the theme: “Charting New Paths”.
As you are aware, the unem- targets NAPP ployed young persons who are desirous of ac- quiring skills and work experience necessary to increase their marketabil- ity to potential employers; enhance their ability to adapt quickly to emerging trends in various sectors and seize small and micro entrepreneurial oppor- tunities likely to impact their economic develop- ment.
It is often said that the objectives of graduations are two-fold – they mark the end of one phase and the commencement of another, whether that sec- ond phase is to the world of work or to further study.

Today we know that presently our graduants here, because of their skill acquisition, are all head- ing out to work.

But for them, they have also been given options.

Today we know that through initiative, this they have been empow- ered to “chart new paths” for themselves and their families.
This training Project may have just been the catalyst that many needed to move them into new directions and pathways.

I understand that some of the graduants are already enquiring about the Level 3 training for their pro- gramme.

As I address you this “The path to our destination is not always a straight one.

We go down the wrong road, we get lost, we turn back.

Maybe it doesn't matter which road we embark on.

Maybe what matters is that we embark.” every level of training.
In this modality one is only deemed competent when he/she can demonstrate the required skill for as- sessment.

This process led to the award of the Ca- ribbean Vocational Quali- fication (CVQ).

To explain the CVQ… In 2012, Saint Lucia was able to satisfy the rigors of a CARICOM Technical Audit under the guidance of the Caribbean Associa- tion of National Training Authorities (CANTA) in order to be given permis- sion to award the Carib- bean Vocational Quali- fication (CVQ).
This is a regionally recognized qualification which is ac- the throughout cepted CARICOM region.

I am pleased to say that although Saint Lucia has issued close to 1,000 CVQ certificates, this is the first group of persons who will be awarded the CVQ at Levels 1 and 2 under the NICE Programme, through the Saint Lucia Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training.

So, what does this mean for our graduands today?


It means that they are graduating with a region- ally recognized certificate and that there is mobil- ity for them to be able to work as qualified persons, within CARICOM.

The CVQ certificate gives the graduands the opportunity to seek new paths, to apply for the CARICOM Skills Certifi- cate which allows persons to move and work within the CARICOM space.
This programme should have just begun to wet their appetites to move into areas of further study and advanced certifica- tion in the fields.

I am sure some are graduat- ing for the first time from any programme and did not even know that they possessed the ability and the will power to succeed.

This is the result of com- petency based training; it builds your confidence and drives you to succeed.
At today’s momentous occasion, 130 persons will be awarded competency based certificates in the areas of Crop Production CVQ Level 1(38), Model Farming (10), and Care of the Older Adult CVQ Level 2 (82).

So, to the graduating class today, I say that you have been blessed with this opportunity to be trained and certi- fied with a recognized qualification.

(CXC is certifying the CVQ Lev- el 1 and 2 for secondary school leavers – identi- cal qualification).
I encourage you to build on that opportunity and be ready to explore the various paths that may present themselves.

You have been given the tools to do so and just to borrow the words of an Unknown Author who said that the “road to success is always under construction”.

Continue to seek new opportunities to build that path which you have started and as you go I encourage you to keep in mind the words of Bar- bara Hall who said that, “The path to our desti- nation is not always a straight one.
We go down the wrong road, we get lost, we turn back.

Maybe it doesn’t matter which road we embark on.

May- be what matters is that we embark.” Today you have un- doubtedly demonstrated that you have embarked on a path.

We thank the Govern- ment of St. Lucia for al- lowing this opportunity to build a quality training system for our country and to create the platform to develop world class, qualified and certified workers.
Today belongs to every- one who worked hard to bring this to fruition, al- though more especially this final graduat- to ing class of the NICE programme.

However, while we continue to cel- ebrate, elevate and con- gratulate our trainees we must also celebrate the achievements of the Pro- gramme.

We must per- severe in the work that has started and strive for sustainable means to continue our efforts.
I therefore thank you immensely and encour- age you to enjoy an eve- ning of celebration and achievement with the graduates.

Thank You!

Estellita Renee, Chairperson of the St. Lucia Council for Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) afternoon, let me ask for your patience and under- standing since there is so much to be acknowl- edged.

An attempt will be made to briefly contex- tualize this occasion so that you understand the importance of this gradu- ation ceremony today.
I remember about a year and a half ago, speaking with your coordinator, Mr. Perry Thomas and indicating to him that while I was pleased to see persons being employed in the “Home Help” pro- gramme, we needed to find some means of rais- ing their experience to the next level.

We discussed it further on several occa- sions and decided that we should look at the possi- bility of training and cer- tification.
Armed with enthusiasm, the Saint Lucia Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training and the Ministry of Edu- cation’s TVET Unit began to concentrate efforts on finding suitable standards and relevant certification to fit the identified needs.

A very dynamic Indus- try Advisory Committee was established and after a process of verification and validation the appro- priate documents were approved.
In the other two areas of Crop Produc- tion and Model Farming, the necessary documents were already validated, readily available and in use.

This training Project turned out to be a very dynamic one which pro- pelled the creative imagi- nation of all who were involved.

The training modality employed was very different from what has traditionally been mainly institution-based.
the training was conducted by pre-qualified train- ing providers using in- dustry validated occu- pational standards in a flexible training environ- ment within audited and approved instance, this In training facilities.

In other words industry practitioners approve and validate the content of the training package.
A system of Competen- cy Based Education and Training was introduced to ensure competency at The speaker told the proud NICE graduates they were the first to be trained and accredited under the local TVET program.

Page 10 NationWIDE The 2015 NICE NAPP Graduation Saturday January 9, 2016 NICE continues to change lives for the better!
Following is the full text of the address delivered to the NICE 2016 NAPP Graduation Ceremony by National Coordinator Mr Perry Thomas, on December 17 2015 at the National Cultural Centre.

to According the IMF Working Pa- per WP/14/115 of 2014 Unemployment in St. Lucia over the past two decades has been histori- cally very high; and it in- creased markedly to over 20 percent by mid-2012 with the economic slow- down.

Sectoral shifts in the economy.


The shift in the struc- ture of the economy from agriculture and labor intensive manufac- turing to services over the past two decade… has required the em- ployment of relatively more skilled workers.

in Young demographics.

The rapid growth in fertility the 1980s (subsequently dropped in the early 2000s) re- sulted in a rapid popu- lation growth, with the great majority of the currently labor very young.
Recent data points to high unem- ployment among the youth and unskilled persons.

Unemployment rate among the youth… is also strongly concen- trated among the un- skilled: (unquote) force The Government rec- ognizes that within the context of the challenges arising out of the cur- rent socio-economic re- alities its responsibility is to lead the charge on positively impacting our unemployment situation, particularly amongst our young population.
In that regard, the estab- lishment of the National Initiative to Create Em- ployment (NICE) has to viewed as a step in the right direction - targeted at providing employ- ment opportunities for the skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled unem- ployed person(s).

NICE from 2012 to date has created in excess of 5800 employment oppor- tunities.

A review of the demographic make of the beneficiaries will show that women form a little over 60%.
A closer review will reveal that while the male participation rate is lower than that of women, males however dominate opportunities created in the agriculture sector, sporting and sporting maintenance.

We must applaud the men that have taken our challenge to become a part of a fe- male dominated group in health care workers in the Home Help Compo- nent of NICE.
NICE Coordinator Perry Thomas Private Sector Partnership Arrangement (PSPA) Private sector involve- ment can greatly en- hance what is offered by the state, but this must be done in partnership, with clearly delineated responsibilities with the aim of reaching the same goal(s).

NICE in this fi- nancial year again focus on partnering with the private sector in an effort to increase the number of employment opportuni- ties for the unemployed under the Private Sector Partnership Arrangement (PSPA).
This initiative de- livered support over a six month period to employ- ers mainly in the produc- tive employing new job seekers.

The sup- port cover up to 60% of the individual’s salary to a maximum EC $ 1500.00.

NICE’s efforts at bolster- ing employment in the private sector has seen the participation of 66 pri- vate businesses employ- ing 207 persons under the PSPA to date.
Today we can boost a retention rate of just under 61% of the persons employed under that initiative with this year alone witnessing the participation of 20 firms employing 61 persons.

sector To continue the work started in 2012 the Gov- ernment of St. Lucia un- der the leadership of Dr. Kenny D Anthony with the help of the Govern- ment and people of Ven- ezuela extended has NICE’s mandate to an additional two years be- yond its initial three year mandate.
Today we celebrate the achievement of 130 grad- uates: 48 participants in crop production and 82 in Care of the Older Adult who have completed tech- nical vocational training and will be certified at the Caricom Vocational Qual- ification Level.

(Slide 2) Farm Labor Support Program (FLSP) – Crop Production NICE will continue to provide support to the agricultural sector under the Farm Labour Support Initiative (FLSP).
The em- ployment created under this initiative has contrib- uted to the return of over 200 acres of farm lands back into food produc- tion.

The revitalization of our agricultural sec- tor is of vital importance given the age structure of our island’s farming com- munity.

The introduction of more young persons, trained in crop produc- tion speaks directly to the continuity of food pro- duction and the island’s food security.
As in previous settings it was made clear the pur- pose of the Farm Labour Support Program (FLSP): this program is designed to stimulate the Agricul- tural Sector through the utilization of specially trained and skilled per- sonnel to serve as ‘farm workers’ on farms that have been dormant/inac- tive/underdeveloped or have been forced to close within the past six (6) months or longer due to one or more of the follow- ing reasons: - High cost of production - Availability of skilled labour - Inability to afford skilled labour and/or Loss or lack of markets The two-fold rationale of the FLSP: to create sus- tainable employment op- portunities in the local Agricultural Sector and; to subsequently develop a shift in the mindset of persons working within the Sector to view Agri- culture, and farming in particular, as a business has brought about signifi- cant changes to the sector since its implementation.
Today our trainees form part of the pool of skilled labour employed in 8 ag- ricultural regions.

Today’s crop production train- ees are assigned mainly to Roseau – region 7 and Choiseul – region 6.

Choi- seul –region now boast of 29 farmers actively en- gaged in crop production on 121 acres of land 70% of which was in active or abandon.

Roseau - region 7 has also seen the resus- citation of farms and now boasts of 59 new acres un- der cultivation.
Care of the Older Adult be Mentioned must made of the island situ- ation with regard to our older adults in our vari- ous communities.

There is no getting away from the fact that their numbers are high and increasing.

Men- tioned must also be made to the ever increase inci- dence of abandonment of our older adults by their family and friends.

It is the good book challeng- es us to be our brothers’ keeper; NICE has taken up this challenge through its Home Help Program.
2012 saw the engagement of 325 persons under this initiative.

Over time the performance of this group of dedicated per- sons have shown how one person can make a differ- ence.

325 persons meeting the needs of approximate- ly 600 individuals around the island proved to be in- sufficient as demand for the services outstripped the available compliment of caregivers.
We the celebrate achievement of 82 indi- viduals who over the past four months have met the course requirement for successful completion and the expectations of their facilitators whose nursing experience made a significant difference in how the training was de- livered.

Keep in mind that the facilitators approach en- fact, sured that sessions were not dominantly depen- dant on the use of lectures.
In their approach proved to be a reward- ing experience with a major thrust on participa- tory learning methods that make the training process more interesting and also ensuring more productive results.

Such results were achieved with 98% passing their assessments with the highest mark being 95%.
To those of you graduat- ing from Care of the Older Adult Training I say the test is ahead and so I am compelled to remind you of these words shared with the graduating class of 2013; “When you have changed you clients adult diaper over and over again, clean the mess cre- ated by your client over and over, experience the frustration of having a client who does not want to bath and by day’s end return to your family and prepare to return the next day with a smile eager do it all over only then and only then will you know whether or not you are cut out for this job”.
Misyé at Meydam, Jodi- a nou vini ansanm pou selebwe epi yon san twant moun ki ja jwenn entwen- Continued on Page 11 The certification process has been taken up another notch by the local TVET entity and graduates will be able to ply their care-giving trade beyond Saint Lucia’s shores.

Prime Minister Dr Kenny D. Anthony is as proud as every graduate about their achievements and about the role NICE continues to play in the lives of those it touches.
Saturday January 9, 2016 NationWIDE The 2015 NICE NAPP Graduation Continued from Page 10 nman diwan lanné-a an sije, ka gwam moun et pwoducsyon danwe.

Anpami pli gwan kantite se patisipan entwennman- an se moun ki patisipe an pogwanm Ka Gwan Moun (Care of the Older Adult).

Pogwanm la kon nou ja wé ka édé an chay gwan moun oliwon peyi-a.

Pwe- zantman apipwé sis san moun ka wisivwé ka.

NICE ni an chay logey an twavay la pogwam Ka Gwan Moun ja fé et ka continé fé.
Katwiven dé endivid kay jwenn lezot twavayé an pogwanm- la pou potjiwe se gwan moun la ka, an koumans- man mwa Janvyé 2016.

Wezon pou demach sala se pou kwe opotinite pou enployman ki diwab an sekta santé, ek dezyenman pou moun sa develope yon lakopwann ki se gwan moun-la te la avan nou te fe an kontwibisyon adan developman konmin-la epi peyi-a.

Tan-a ja vini pou nou wekonize ki, se kontwi- bisyon yo, ki ban nou an- chay bennefis jodi-a.
Annou develope anko nou ki, I pa an bon pwatik pou pa pwan ka yo lé yo vini an laj.

Jodi-a, sé patispan pog- wann Farm Labour-a, kay anpami lezot twavayé ki ja koumansé twavay an wit konmin agwikilti an péyi-a; sé patispan-a yo ja koumansé twavay an konmin Wozo (Roseau) epi Chwazèy (Choiseul).

An konmin Chwazèy, la ni ventnèf (29) famaz ki ka chiltivé danwé asou yon san ventenyen (121) kawé tè.

Apipwé swasant dis (70%) pusant adan tè-a té abandonnen.
Pwézantman, an kon- min Wozo, nou sa palé di senkant nèf kawé tè anba chiltivasyon.

Partnerships Mention has been made at previous graduation ceremonies of the inher- ent challenges associated with the implementation of training initiatives.

The role played by partners must be noted for without their input and assistance we would not have suc- cessfully completed the courses of training.
The Ministry of Agriculture, the farmers and the NSDC in crop production train- ing; the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, the Marian, St. Lucy, Villa St. Joseph, Mother Theresa’s, and Comfort Bay in the Care of the Older Adult.

Let me publicly thank the Min of Education and the TVet Unit for the coopera- tion established between our two organizations.

Through this collaboration the process from assess- ment to certification has been made smooth and we are pleased.
The Family While the model used by NICE enables the individ- ual to acquire the requisite skills for the job market and income earning opportuni- ties through job placement – through identified job openings, the model goes further – through its pro- cesses under the National Apprenticeship and Place- ment Program (NAPP) to provide avenues for tran- sitioning from unemploy- ment to employment, from unskilled to skilled.
The Model further imparts the values of productivity in the work place, efficient use of time and building self-confidence.

In essence NICE acts as a family: a unit from which every applicant finds courage in knowing that someone cares about my situation, has the con- fidence in me that in can do better, be a better per- son striving to achieve my dreams and providing the support for charting a new path for my life.
to make I am minded to share with you that when I asked the staff this graduation one of a differ- ence in my mind I wanted to bring a greater focus to the persons who brought us here today and to share their story.

While we re- main to continue the work of changing lives, we pause to remember those who were once part of the NICE family but have responded to the master’s calling.
And so - as families do - we re- member… In Closing NICE reiterates its minimum goal for our tech-voc graduates is to the competency meet requirements according Page 11 to industry standards.

Beyond that, our aim throughout the life of this Project is to ensure that our graduates are employable, that they are earning decent incomes and increasing their job market mobility.

The issuance of CVQ and NVQ certification is of vital importance for it speaks directly to mobil- ity in the job market.
We job recognize that the market must not be lim- ited to St. Lucia and that possessing documenta- tion that clearly tells of one’s skill(s) is of vital importance if he or she is to pursue employment opportunity(s) beyond our borders.

With these words ladies and gentlemen welcome to the 2015 graduation ceremony of the National Initiative to Create Em- ployment.

Ready to do NICE things for all people, all the time!
Last month's NICE 2015 Graduation Ceremony was a great Christmas and New Year present that each graduate worked heart and soul for.

As these photos show, they also celebrated their success with pride and joy, each looking forward to doing nice things for all people with their more finely honed skills in 2016 -- and beyond!
Page 12 NationWIDE Sod Turned for Fond Assau Playing Field Mini Pavilion and Changing Room Saturday January 9, 2016 A sod turning ceremo- ny for a mini pavil- ion and changing room was held on Thursday (7th January, 2016) at the Fond Assau Playing Field.

Minister for Youth Devel- opment and Sports, Hon.

Shawn Edward attended the ceremony and reaffirmed his commitment to devel- oping a sporting culture for Saint Lucians.
He also disclosed that the commissioning of lights for the field would be done this year and urged residents to properly utilize the facility, stressing the importance of proper management systems to ensure sustainability of community infrastructure.

Hon.

Alvina Reynolds, MP for Babonneau, commended the continued support of the Sports Ministry for the proj- ects and programmes it con- tinues to implement in her constituency.
She encouraged residents and students to continue us- ing the sporting facility to de- velop their skills and also to live healthy lifestyles.

The Fond Assau playing field has recently been refurbished by the MP and the construc- tion of the mini pavilion and changing rooms with the installation of lights holds a promise for further sporting development and recreation for the residents and its envi- rons.
The change room is estimat- ed to cost of $300,000 and con- struction is set to begin later this month.

Health Minister and MP for Babonneau Alvina Reynolds helped two infant students turn the sod for construction of the much-needed changing room, cheered on by Sports Minister Shawn Edward.

Sports Minister concerned about vandalism Minister of Youth during a sod turning ceremony for a half a million dollar mini pavilion and changing room at Fond Assau, Babonneau.
thing – a court, and then you see evidence of vandalism and gar- bage, “ the Minister said.

benefitted from the disburse- ment of $1.5 million from the national budget.

Development and Sports, Hon.

Shawn Edward, has expressed con- cern about the failure of some communities to up- keep government projects in the area of sports and youth development.
Mr Edward made the com- ments today while speaking “There is nothing that dis- turbs me more as the Minister for Youth Development and Sports than when I go into com- munities and a few weeks or months after we have unveiled a changing room, lights or any- He said that in some commu- nities, people need to take pride in whatever project the govern- ment has executed.
Minister Edwards disclosed that by the end of the current term, youth and sports develop- ment in Babonneau will have The Minister also revealed that Fond Assau would later this year become one of the communities where lights will be turned on to facilitate sport- ing activities in the evening.
He said that to date, lights have been installed at sporting facilities in four communi- ties – at the Phillip Marcel- lin Grounds in Vieux Fort, in Anse La Raye, at the March- and Grounds and at the La Resource Playing Field in the Mabouya Valley.

Edward ex- plained that facilities at La Fargue in Choiseul, in Canar- ies, Dennery and Fond Assau will be next.

More records set and broken here as ARC enters Guinness World Book!
The annual Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is a ‘must do’ for many sail- ors around the world and at- tracts over 200 boats and 1,200 people every year to sail 2,700 NM across the Atlantic Ocean, from the Canary islands to Saint Lucia.

Participants from 20 nations set off on the 30th ARC Atlan- tic adventure last November from Las Palmas de Gran Ca- naria, which ended here before Christmas at Rodney Bay.
The 30th ARC included four very special sailors who were at the starting line for the very first ARC in 1986.

They probably didn’t realize it at the time, but they were making their place in history as the rally has gone down into the Guinness World Book of Records as the largest trans-ocean sailing rally in the world!
Swedish sailor Pekka Karls- son and his wife sailed into Saint Lucia with ARC+ in Co- rona Aq, with the very same Laurin 32 that they left Las Palmas on in the first edi- tion of the ARC in 1986.

Pe- kka and his wife Barbra were honored by the World Cruis- ing Club at the prize giving ceremony held at the Pigeon Island National landmark for participating in the first ARC in 1986, the first ARC Plus and the third ARC Plus – and also for wining first place in the Cruising Class.
Speaking to the local press, Pe- kka said, “(For) The first ARC I was new to sailing.

It was fun.

We used the sandglass to help us with the time.

I remember it took us twenty one days to Bar- bados from Las Palmas.” He went on to say, “Now thirty things have changed years later.

In 1986 it was 32 to 35-feet boats, now we have 45 feet, so it’s better.” The Swedish sailor said of Sai8nt Lucia, “The people here are friendlier.
I must say you have more shops here and the organization is better and it’s getting better every year, so thank you very much.” The winning yacht ‘Team Bru- nel’ sailed in to Saint Lucia to set a new ARC Course Record for sailing from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia in an elapse time of 8 days 7 hours, 39 minutes and 30 seconds.
This is the third consecutive year that the Course Record has been beaten Thanking his team at the IGY Marina, World Cruising Club Director Andrew Bishop praised the St. Lucia Tourist Board for their outstanding performance in organizing the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers and the tree plant- ing project which is in its 4th year, organized together with the Rotary Club of St. Lucia.
Swedish sailor Pekka Karlsson and his wife sailed into Saint Lucia with ARC+ in Corona Aq, with the very same Laurin 32 that they left Las Palmas on in the first edition of the ARC in 1986.

For the fourth year, the ARC sailors and their families joined the local Rotary Club to plant trees in Saint Lucia.