Some Achievements I wish it had been possible this Christmas to speak less of the present threats to peace and safety, and more of pleasant things. For much has been accomplished this year by the Government and people. This Government and the people of St. Lucia it represents, are developing a relationship of open dialogue and sharing of ideas that may well be unique in our region. This year we hosted Caricom leaders and President Nelson Mandela of South Africa. This year the banana industry took a major step forward in independence and maturity.
Tourism continues to grow.
Private sector investments and expansion are increasing. We kept our promises to sell shares in our National Commercial Bank to our people. More children gained access to secondary schools than ever before. My recent chat with St. Lucians on the Internet augurs well for a new and more meaningful relationship with our people who live and work in other countries. This year too, on a note of sadness, we lost many good friends.