PRESS RELEASE – The Ministry of Social Transformation, Local Government & Community Empowerment wishes to inform all west coast residents, commuters, the Soufriere/Vieux Fort mini bus/taxi operators, business owners and vendors of the commencement of the Redevelopment of the Soufriere Town Square scheduled for week of February 8-12, 2016.

It is expected that this improvement will create minor challenges in traversing the area, and so the public is advised to exercise the standard caution.

The Ministry thanks all for their co-operation and apologises for any inconveniences that this may cause, as we aim to enhance the development of our island’s communities. We look forward to the re-opening of an exquisite green space in the majestic town of Soufriere.

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PRESS RELEASE – Last month, the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC), and Rocky Mountain Institute and Carbon War Room (RMI-CWR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The memorandum outlined a framework for cooperation and coordination of activities in key common interest areas, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, energy efficiency and information sharing between utilities in the region.

One of the first joint projects will be the development of a virtual peer-to-peer learning platform for Caribbean renewable energy practitioners. The platform will be available in coming months.

The goal of the Community of Practice is to foster continuous knowledge exchange between Caribbean utility engineers, government practitioners, and development partners active in the sustainable energy space. The platform will offer renewable deployment approaches, tools and templates and enable practitioners to share their experiences and solve challenges together.

“The impacts of fossil fuel generation on climate change necessitate a shift toward the development of renewable energy sources to meet the growing demand for energy while addressing the issue of environmental sustainability.

Although the Caribbean has outlined its regional and country specific energy policies and renewable energy targets, in many cases the environment does not enable the effective implementation of those policies. We see the partnership between CARILEC and the Rocky Mountain Institute and Carbon War Room as an important development for us. CARILEC is an advocate of sustainable energy practices that serve the region’s present needs while preserving the ability for our future generations to continue.

We also believe that increased training and knowledge sharing in the region helps to build that enabling environment for sustainable energy practices. On this basis, it was clear that CARILEC and the Rocky Mountain Institute and Carbon War Room had common interests. With our unique perspectives, and in combining our varied networks and strengths, we know we will accomplish much more through this partnership. ” Mr. Thomas Hodge, CARILEC Executive Director.

CARILEC’s mission is to enhance the effectiveness of its members by providing industry related services, creating regular networking, training and knowledge sharing opportunities; supporting mutual assistance programs and being an advocate for the industry throughout the Caribbean.

RMI-CWR work across the Caribbean with governments and utilities to develop and accelerate their renewable energy and energy efficiency transition from fossil fuels.

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PRESS RELEASE – The Trade Export Promotion Agency (TEPA) of St Lucia and the International Trade Centre (ITC) today agreed to step up collaboration to boost the export capacities of the country’s enterprises.

The agreement was signed by TEPA Chief Executive Officer Jacqueline Emmanuel Flood8i and ITC Executive Director Arancha González, who is on her first official visit to St Lucia and the Caribbean region.

This new agreement between the two organizations will allow for a review and update of St Lucia’s 2004 National Export Strategy (NES), which was developed by the Government with the guidance of ITC. The update of the NES – which will be led by TEPA – aims to reflect a changed economic climate and different export priorities, allowing St Lucia to grab a greater share of regional and global trade.

As part of the collaboration, ITC will provide technical support and advisory services to strengthen the institutional capacities of TEPA, to provide better services to its enterprise clients. A main goal of this renewed partnership will be to increase the number of St Lucian enterprises participating in regional and global trade. This capacity building will also be extended to other organizations and enterprises across the country, both public and private.

In addition, ITC will build on its expertise to provide support to ‘Tastes of St Lucia’, an ongoing initiative to brand products made in St Lucia, including from the food and beverage sector, to the services industry.

Ms. Emmanuel Flood said: “This is not the first time ITC is providing support to TEPA. ITC has worked closely with us before and was integral in the development of our Trade Information System. We are elated and very grateful for ITC’s support. We look forward to this new arrangement and continue to push towards growth and excellence through our National Export Strategy.”

Ms. González said: “St Lucia has great potential to expand and diversify its export base. It is an island which has much to offer in terms of agro-processing and the skills of its people and the continued collaboration between TEPA and ITC will leverage this to create exports which can compete on the global stage.’

During her visit to St Lucia, Ms. González also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ms. Emma Hippolyte, Minister for Commerce, Business Development, Investment, and Consumer Affairs. This Memorandum, which was signed on 9 February, sets out to strengthen the cooperation between the Government and ITC on trade development and export promotion.

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ABOUT TEPA

Saint Lucia Trade Export Promotion Agency (TEPA) is the Saint Lucian Government’s National Trade Export and Promotion Agency, and is the lead agency mandated to spearhead the island’s National Export Development Effort. The overall objective is to increase aggregate volume and value of exports from Saint Lucia.

The Trade Export and Promotion Agency (TEPA) will provide a range of information and support to local businesses and international buyers.

Saint Lucia TEPA works to promote and expand business in export markets around the world. We aspire to increase local exports, to assist local businesses improve profitability and long term sustainability, thus making a direct and valuable contribution to the Saint Lucian economy.

ABOUT ITC

ITC is the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations. ITC assists small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transition economies to become more competitive in global markets, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development within the frameworks of the Aid-for-Trade agenda and the UN Global Goals. For more information, visit www.intracen.org. Follow ITC on Twitter: @ITCnews

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PRESS RELEASE – Government pressing to ensure most poor and vulnerable citizens benefit from Renewable Energy Transition.

Castries, Saint Lucia, February 11, 2016 – The Government of Saint Lucia`s quest to introduce more renewable energy in the local market is founded in its desire to bring benefit to the most poor and vulnerable citizens in society.

To investigate the best pathways to ensure that higher penetration of Renewables is obtained at the least cost, Government recently signed the National Energy Transition Strategy with key partners LUCELEC and the Clinton Climate Initiative, Rocky Mountain Institute and Carbon War Room alliance (CCI/ RMI-CWR).

This strategy will also ensure that the stability and reliability of the existing electrical grid is not compromised as the Government works towards accomplishing its mandate to achieve 35% of electricity production from renewable energy sources and 20% reduction in electricity consumption in the public sector by the year 2020.

Energy Minister Sen. Hon. Dr. James Fletcher says one of Government`s primary focus is to ensure the poor and most vulnerable citizens do not foot the bill of transitioning but rather receive some reprieve in their electricity bills.

To ensure that various stakeholder perspectives are represented during the implementation of this strategy the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology has organised a one-day consultation to obtain critical feedback on the planned implementation of the strategy.

The Saint Lucia National Energy Transition Strategy Stakeholder Consultation is scheduled for February 12, 2016 at the BOUGAINVILLEA Conference Room of the Bay Gardens Hotel from 8:30a.m.

It will include participation from key stakeholders involved in Saint Lucia’s energy transition.

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PRESS RELEASE – Saint Lucia’s burgeoning international financial sector received a further boost this week.

Petrus Private Bank officially opened its local operations during a brief ceremony at the Capella Resort in Marigot Bay on Tuesday, February 16, 2016. The ceremony was attended by Minister for Commerce, Hon. Emma Hippolyte; Chairman of the Board of Petrus Private Bank, Mr. Thierry Bounous; Chief Executive Office, Mr. Jean-Francois Ruel; Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Benjamin Gunst; directors and members of the staff of the bank; and members of staff of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FRSA) in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Affairs, Planning & Social Security.

Addressing the audience, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Kenny. D. Anthony thanked the Bank’s leadership for choosing Saint Lucia over jurisdictions including The Bahamas, Barbados, and Switzerland, noting their stated ambition “to become the Caribbean bank of choice for individuals who seek a financial institution that can relate to their motives, aspirations and needs.”

The Prime Minister went on to speak to the complex international regulatory environment that governs the offshore financial sector, and to outline the steps the Government of Saint Lucia has taken over the past four years in particular “to avoid being blacklisted and to remain attractive and competitive.”

Said Dr. Anthony,

“The Financial Services Regulatory Authority, the Financial Intelligence Authority, the professional services industry, the Ministry of Finance and Central Government continue to working relentlessly and assiduously in developing Saint Lucia as a truly global financial centre on par with the major international players.”
The Prime Minister went on to emphasize that all who are engaged in the industry must be bold, imaginative, and innovate. According to the Prime Minister,

“I believe we all accept that times have changed. I marvel every day at the rate that financial products and services are undergoing change. If we want to survive in this new environment, we will need to be bold and imaginative. While we are required to obey regulatory requirements, it is imperative that we do not become so consumed with our regulatory commitments that we lose our ability to innovate and create new products for the financial marketplace. Innovation remains a key to our survival. We are no longer competing with our own in the region but with the entire world.”
The Prime Minister concluded by thanking the principals of the bank for making Saint Lucia the jurisdiction of choice. He said,

“I am pleased to welcome Petrus Private Bank Limited to our shores. I thank its principals for choosing Saint Lucia as its base to conduct business. Your presence and operations will add value to our economy. This decision is another statement of confidence in the integrity of our country, our economy and its future. We will do our utmost to justify the faith and confidence you have placed in our country and our people.”
Petrus Private Bank Limited is now the 15th licensed international bank operating from Saint Lucia. Saint Lucia is signatory to or compliant with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, the Financial Action Task Force, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the International Cooperative Regulatory Group, and the United States Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, among others. The island’s international financial sector is governed by the international financial services laws and the Financial Services Regulatory Authority Act of 2011, which gave birth to the FSRA.

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PRESS RELEASE –  

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport (MIPST) wishes to advise motorists and residents who utilize the Bocage through to Sunbilt road, that from Wednesday 24th February to Thursday 3rd March 2016, the contractor who is undertaking the final phase of the Bocage/Sunbilt Road Rehabilitation Project will be applying the Asphalt surface.

As a result of these paving works, there will be some delays, inconvenience and some traffic diversions will also be in effect.  As is customary, The MIPST is appealing to the motoring public and pedestrians to cooperate, and wishes to apologise for any inconvenience caused as a result.

Motorists and pedestrians are advised to pay attention to the road signs and should exercise caution.

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PRESS RELEASE – March 2016, residents of the Souci community in Cul De Sac met with officials of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport and The Water & Sewerage Co. (WASCO) in a town hall setting to discuss new road infrastructure and improvements to the water infrastructure for these residents.

In attendance were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport (MIPST) Hon. Philip J. Pierre, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport Allison A. Jean, General Manager for the Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) Vincent Hippolyte, Engineer in the MIPST Natalie Popovic, and Anthony Reece from WASCO.

In addressing the audience, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport Hon. Philip J. Pierre recalled that the Prime Minister alerted him of the need to undertake some repairs to this road after one of his visits to the community in 2015.

Following the MIPST’s assessment of this road, Minister Phillip J. Pierre ordered complete rehabilitation. As a result, the Government of St. Lucia has secured funding for this project, and the community will soon have a new concrete road surface with improvements to the drainage.

For his part, the General Manager of WASCO noted that his organization was aware of the challenges the residents faced in receiving a reliable water supply. The company had previously laid a 4” water main to a section of that community, but that line had not been energized.

When WASCO was made aware that the MIPST was about to undertake this project, they decided to profit the opportunity to continue the laying of a 4” main throughout the rest of the community to replace the existing 2” main and connect all existing water connections to the 4’mains, while simultaneously energising the previously laid 4” main. This therefore means that residents will now have access to a more efficient potable water supply.

For their part, the residents were very pleased with this development as it represented a huge effort on the part of the two entities to address their most pressing needs. The residents were very grateful for the interventions and conveyed their deepest appreciation. They also expressed some concern that there are still some land regularization issues which are yet to be resolved with the land owners – Geest, despite several interventions by the Government from the year 2000 to regularize land ownership.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of April 2016.

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PRESS RELEASE – The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport wishes to inform the general public that Stantec Consulting Inc. will be conducting random interviews with members of the general public as part of a Social Impact Assessment for the North South Link Road Feasibility Study. Stantec Consulting Inc. is the Consultant conducting the North South Link Road Feasibility Study.

The interviews will be conducted throughout the month of March 2016, commencing on 9th March 2016. Interviews will be done in communities within the North, East and South West of the island, primarily from Gros Islet to Laborie. The objective of this exercise is to assist in the assessment of the impacts of a potential new road in the North East Quadrant of the island.

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport requests the kind co-operation of the public in this exercise.

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PRESS RELEASE – The Ministry of Commerce, Business Development, Investment and Consumer Affairs, congratulates all the nominees and Winners from the recently held Saint Lucia Manufacturers Association (SMA) awards held this past weekend.

Hon Emma Hippolyte, Minister for Commerce, Business Development, Investment and Consumer Affairs said “As the arm of Government responsible for commerce it is always a pleasure to see the success and strides of the manufacturing sector, the creators of products, the creators of jobs; drivers of the economy. As we continue to do our best to create and sustain an environment conducive to growth and development, it is a blessing to stop, look back, award, recognise and encourage”.

Minister Hippolyte continued, “We wish also to acknowledge the work of the SMA, the advocacy, leadership and direction that they provide. The mentorship passed on by many of its members to young and established entrepreneurs. The resilience they have shown in trying times and the success stories as celebrated this day. Congratulations to all of you. Well Done!”

In that light we wish to acknowledge, appreciate and congratulate as follows:

AWARDS FOR PRODUCT AND CUSTOMER SERVICE QUALITY

THE GOLD AWARDEES IN THIS CATEGORY:

• FERRANDS FOOD PRODUCTS

• GREW INDUSTRIES 1989 LTD

• HYLYNE POULTRY FARM LTD

• LUBECO (1991) LTD

• POYOTTES JOINERY INC

THE PLATINUM AWARDEES IN THIS CATEGORY:

• SUNFRESH LTD

THE DIAMOND AWARDEES:

• BARON FOODS LTD.
• CARRIBEAN AWNING PROUCUTION COMPANY LTD

• Du BOULAY’S BOTTLING CO. LTD
• HARRIS PAINTS ST. LUCIA LTD
• NATMED LTD.
• PARADISE WATER LTD.
• TOP STONE FABRICATION LTD.
• ST LUCIA DISTILLERS LTD
• WINDWARD & LEEWARD BREWERY LTD.

• WINERA

THE AWARDS FOR HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

THE GOLD AWARDEESS IN THIS CATEGORY:

• NATMED LTD.

• TOP STONE FABRICATION LTD.

THE PLATINUM AWARDEESS IN THIS CATEGORY:

• DU BOULAY’S BOTTLING CO. LTD
• SUNFRESH LTD.
• WINERA

THE DIAMOND AWARDEESS IN THIS CATEGORY:

• BARON FOODS LTD.

• CARIBBEAN AWNING PRODUCTION COMPANY LTD
• HARRIS PAINTS (ST. LUCIA) LTD.
• PARADISE WATER LTD.
• ST. LUCIA DISTILLERS LTD
• WINDWARD AND LEEWARD BREWARY LTD

THE AWARDS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF STANDARDS AND BEST PRACTICES

THE GOLD AWARDEES:

• GREW INDUSTRIES 1989 LTD
• HYLYNE POULTRY FARM LTD
• LUBECO (1991) LTD.

• POYOTTE’S JOINERY INC

THE PLATINUM AWARDEES:

• TOP STONE FABRICATION LTD.

• SUNFRESH LTD
• WINERA

THE DIAMOND AWARDEES:

• BARON FOODS LTD
• CARIBBEAN AWNING PRODUCTION COMPANY LTD
• DU BOULAY’S BOTTLING CO. LTD
• HARRIS PAINTS (ST. LUCIA) LTD
• NATMED LTD.

• PARADISE WATER LTD.
• ST. LUCIA DISTILLERS LTD.
• WINDWARD & LEEWARD BREWERY LTD.

THE AWARDS FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

THE GOLD AWARDEES

• TOP STONE FABRICATION LTD

• SUNFRESH LTD.

THE PLATINUM AWARDEES:

• NATMED LTD.
• WINERA

THE DIAMOND AWARDEES:

• BARON FOODS LTD
• CARIBBEAN AWNING PRODUCTION CO. LTD

• DU BOULAY’S BOTTLING COMPANY LTD
• HARRIS PAINTS (ST. LUCIA) LTD.
• PARADISE WATER LTD.
• ST. LUCIA DISTILLERS LTD
• WINWARD AND LEEWARD BREWERY LTD

THE AWARDS FOR LEADERSHIP

THE GOLD AWARDEES:

• NATMED LTD
• TOP STONE FABRICATION LTD.

THE PLATINUM AWARDS GOES TO:

• SUNFRESH LTD.

THE DIAMOND AWARDS GO TO:

• BARON FOODS LTD
• CARIBBEAN AWNING PRODUCTION CO. LTD.
• DU BOULAYS BOTTLING COMPANY LTD
• HARRIS PAINTS (ST. LUCIA) LTD.
• PARADISE WATER LTD.
• ST. LUCIA DISTILLERS LTD
• WINDWARD AND LEEWARD BREWARY LTD
• WINERA

THE LAWSON CALDERON ECO MANUFACTURING AWARDS

3RD PLACE – ST LUCIA DISTILLERS LTD

2ND PLACE – HARRIS PAINTS ST. LUCIA LTD

1ST PLACE – DU BOULAY’S BOTTLING CO. LTD

MINISTER’S AWARD FOR INNOVATION

• DU BOULAY’S BOTTLING CO. LTD

FOR RECOGNITION OF A WOMAN IN LEADERSHIP FOR OVER 26 YEARS

STEPHANIE ALLAIN FROM LUBECO 1991 LTD

PRESIDENTS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

CARIBBEAN AWNING PRODUCTION CO. LTD.

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PRESS RELEASE – The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport wishes to inform the motoring public and residents of Laborie of road works along the La Croix Road in Laborie.

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport will be working in collaboration with WASCO to upgrade the water infrastructure along the said road.  The road works are expected to take approximately three (3) weeks to complete, the road will be closed from Friday 11th March, 2016.

During this time motorists are asked to adhere to the road signs during execution of the road works.  The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport apologizes for any inconvenience caused to residents and the motoring public.

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PRESS RELEASE – Windward and Leeward Brewery Ltd. (WLBL), has partnered with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) through its International Water Stewardship Programme (IWaSP) and the Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) to embark on the Saint Lucia Water Stewardship Partnership.

The Saint Lucia Water Stewardship Partnership will set out to identify short-term measures that will seek to improve water security, collectively secure sustainable water supply for the communities and industries located in the south of Saint Lucia in the long run and actively seek the engagement of communities and organizations, and other industries and water users in the region.

At a cheque presentation ceremony, Mr. Sebastian Sanchez, Managing Director of WLBL indicated, “We are proud to partner with WASCO and GIZ to aid in the upgrading of water facilities and distribution in the southern area of St. Lucia. Water is an important resource and through our Water Stewardship program, we would like to ensure that we invest in projects that can reduce water wastage, consumption and utilize sustainable practices in our homes and businesses. One major facet in our Brewing a Better World Campaign is to help protect our water resources in water-scarce and water-distressed areas and this partnership will enable us to do so”.

The WLBL’s Brewing a Better World initiative is a long-term approach for creating and sharing sustainable business practices. The main pillars of the initiative include protecting water resources, reducing CO2 emissions, advocating responsible consumption, promoting health and safety and growing with communities.

Mr. Vincent Hippolyte, Managing Director of WASCO said, “We have a lot of work to do in upgrading our water facilities on the island. And through partnerships with responsible corporate citizens such as WLBL, we will be able improve our water facilities and distribution in key areas. This cheque of USD$90,000.00 will go a long way in setting up water sustainability in La Haut and we take this opportunity to thank WLBL for their continued support”.

Dr. Horst Vogel, Program Director of GIZ, expressed his personal delight and GIZ’s appreciation about the partnership between WLBL, WASCO and GIZ. He also conveyed his trust that this first tripartite cooperation to improve water security in the southern area, i.e. La Haut village, will just set the stage for many similar follow-on projects. After all, he said, where there is cooperation, there is development and progress!

About Windward and Leeward Brewery Ltd. (WLBL)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WLBL is part of the HEINEKEN Company, with headquarters in Vieux Fort.  WLBL produces and distributes high-quality alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout all the OECS countries, Barbados, Belize, Guyana, and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. WLBL brands include Heineken, Piton Beer, Shandy and Malt, Guinness, Desperados, Strongbow Cider, Royal Club (soft drink), Climax Herbal (natural energy drink), Ti-Malta, Amstel Bright, Red Stripe, Carib, VitaMalt, and Smalta.

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PRESS RELEASE – On Thursday 17th March 2016, a Contract Signing Ceremony was held at the offices of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport to signal the commencement of construction activities for a new Dennery Infant School.

This is the first education facility being built under the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP).

Project Coordinator in the Project Coordinating Unit (PCU) Ms. Cheryl Mathurin recalled the history of this project. She noted that the Dennery Village has a history of severe flooding during intense rainfall events, and the existing Dennery Infant School has been severely affected by previous high rainfall events such as Tropical Storm Debbie, Hurricane Tomas and the 2013 Christmas Eve through.

Following the passage of Hurricane Tomas which significantly damaged the existing Infant School, the Government commissioned a design for the construction of a new school in a more secure location. Additionally, the consultants were mandated to ensure that the designs provide greater resilience to adverse weather events.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure Allison A. Jean was happy that this project had arrived at the stage of signing the contract. She disclosed that the new school would entail the construction of 4 new classroom blocks built of reinforced concrete, and equipped with special education classes and access for differently-able persons.

Because the school will be constructed in a new location, provisions have been made for the construction of a new access road, drainage and fencing. She also expressed optimism that the contractor will deliver the project within 14 months duration as per the contract.

An International Competitive Tender process was used for this project. The project was awarded following the receipt of the no objection from the World Bank to OB Sadoo Engineering at a cost of $7.8 Million.

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Residents put their tools to work on a

PRESS RELEASE – The Government of St Lucia through the St Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF) will be implementing another cycle of the Short Term Employment Programme (STEP) commencing March 29th 2016.

This cycle which will run for seven (7) days, will employ a total of one thousand nine hundred and thirty five (1935) workers to undertake the customary clean ups, de-bushing and beatification of several communities throughout all seventeen (17) Constituencies on the island. The will programme also hire sixty three (63) transportation providers to carry all generated waste to the designated landfills in Castries and Vieux Fort.

All green waste collected in Soufriere, Choiseul and Laborie will be deposited at a compost site in Balambouche, Choiseul for use by the Belle Vue Farmers’ Cooperative for their farms.

This will be the third cycle of STEP for the 2015-2016 financial year with the first two cycles hiring a total of four thousand three hundred and seventy eight (4378) workers and one hundred and thirty three (133) trucks.

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PRESS RELEASE – St Lucia Electricity Services Limited’s (LUCELEC) Request for Proposals (RFP) for the construction of a 3 megawatt (MW) solar energy farm is drawing significant interest from around the world.

A recent meeting and site visit for potential bidders attracted seventy (70) representatives of thirty-five (35) companies from the US, Canada, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, many of whom are partnering with local solar, engineering and construction firms.

Participants at the meeting were given an overview of the project and its importance to St. Lucia, information on St. Lucia’s energy transition strategy and the RFP process. They were also given the opportunity to ask questions and get clarification on the project, and to examine the proposed site at La Tourney, Vieux Fort, first hand to assist them in preparing their bids.

The meeting was hosted by LUCELEC together with the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology, the Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI), Rocky Mountain Institute-Carbon War Room (RMI-CWR), and DNV GL who are assisting with coordinating the administrative and technical aspects of preparing the RFP and the evaluation process. They will also provide project management services during bid evaluation and technical support during the construction implementation.

LUCELEC’s Business Development Manager Victor Emmanuel is heading up the project for the company. Speaking at the start of the meeting, Mr Emmanuel said the company was “pleased in the interest expressed to date in the project, particularly with the number of bids from all over the world.”

He explained that although there are currently about 50 small solar photovoltaic (PV) systems connected to the LUCELEC grid, providing about 500 kilowatts of electricity from renewable sources, the 3MW solar farm is historic in that it will be the first utility scale renewable energy project in St. Lucia.

LUCELEC will own and operate the solar farm. Potential bidders have until April 22, 2016 to submit their bid for the construction of the solar farm. The shortlist of candidates will be announced by May 6 and the project awarded on May 20. The submitted bids will be evaluated by a Bid Evaluation Committee made up of representatives from the company and its partners.

LUCELEC intends to construct 1 megawatt of the project this year and add the remaining two megawatts subsequently.

The solar farm demonstrates LUCELEC’s and the Government of Saint Lucia’s commitment to the energy transition process they agreed to when they signed the National Energy Transition Strategy in January 2016.

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PRESS RELEASE – Residents of the Dennery community were presented with the plans and drawings for the new Dennery Infant School, and from the feedback received the attendees are satisfied and elated that this new school represents a marked improvement to what currently exists.

On Wednesday 23rd March 2016, the Ministries of Education, Human Resource Development and Labour; National Development and Planning; and Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport held a stakeholders meeting at the Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School.

In addressing the meeting, Project Coordinator in the Project Coordinating Unit – Ms. Cheryl Mathurin reminded the audience that the construction of a new Infant School in Dennery was always a priority for the Government of St. Lucia, and was part of the National Plan. She also informed the audience that the designs commenced after all consultations with the Ministry of Education and the School Administration were completed, but was nonetheless happy that that the project is now underway.

Chief Education Officer – Mr. Marcus Edward addressed the meeting, and conveyed the Ministry of Education’s delight that a very long process of arriving at the construction stage had borne fruit. He thanked the parents and teachers of the Dennery Infant School for the patience that they have displayed all along, and asked them to exercise continued patience as the Ministry of Education recognizes that the current Infant School is not the ideal facility, but the Government can no longer spend large amounts for its upkeep.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport – Mrs. Allison Jean in addressing the meeting told the audience that all the Ministry’s projects since the passage of Hurricane Tomas have been built in keeping with the philosophy of “Building Back Better.” This ethos will be clearly demonstrated throughout this project. Mrs. Jean also in responding to questions about the leaking roof at the existing school informed the meeting that the contractor engaged for the New Infant School has pledged to repair the roof at no cost to the Government.  

This new school is being funded by the World Bank under the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP) at a cost of $7.8 Million. The contractor is O B Sadoo Engineering, and the project is expected to be completed in 14 Months under the supervision of Lee Young & Partners.

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PRESS RELEASE – Prime Minister and Parliamentary Representative for Vieux Fort South, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony has welcomed a new investment into the town of Vieux Fort.

Caribbean Grains Flour Mill, which proposes to employ over one hundred (100) persons upon completion, is currently under construction at the Vieux Fort Seaport. According to the Prime Minister, this is a major boost for the south of the island. Dr. Anthony said,

“I welcome this investment, particularly because of the job opportunities it presents now and in the future. Over the years, we have had the challenge of dealing with unemployment in Vieux Fort, particularly as most of our factories have closed and moved overseas on the ground that costs of operation in Saint Lucia are prohibitive. The challenge then has been to find alternatives and to attract investors to the south of the island. Therefore, this is a timely and much appreciated investment in Vieux Fort. For many, it is nostalgic, as a Flour Mill once existed in the same location.

“This is also good news for Saint Lucia, because once fully operational, this would make us self-sufficient in producing flour for our needs.”

During his constituency day on Wednesday, March 30, 2016, Prime Minister toured the construction site and was briefed of the current status of the project.

The project currently employs twenty-six (26) individuals, and engages five sub-contractors. Construction commenced in October 2015 and is expected to be completed in July 2016. The investors have expressed a desire to be fully operational by November 2016.

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PRESS RELEASE  – On Tuesday 5th April 2016, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport met at a Strategic Planning Workshop.

The workshop facilitated by Deputy Permanent Secretary – Mr. Ivor Daniel was to examine the successes and shortcomings of the MISPT over the past years, and to position the MIPST and staff to meet the expectations of the Public. This was one in a series of sessions to prepare a Strategic Plan for the period 2016 to 2020.

Permanent Secretary Mrs. Allison A. Jean in her opening remarks said that this exercise could have been equated to an exercise done annually in the private sector, referred to as Stock Taking. PS  Jean told the participants to view this Strategic Planning exercise as an opportunity for retrospection and introspection.

She was hopeful that at the conclusion of the exercise the MIPST would be in a position to better dispense its mandate. PS Jean mentioned that this may be the first Strategic Plan completed within the Public Service without the help of an external consultant.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport Hon. Philip J. Pierre commended the staff of the Ministry for the quality of work and the efficient use of limited resources over the last four years. Hon. Pierre also said that the work of the MIPST impacts on lives, peoples’ future and well being. Therefore, the Staff must strive at all times to deliver the highest quality of work.

The Deputy Prime Minister also implored the participants to adopt and to use the Value Statements derived to guide them in carrying out their responsibilities. Hon. Pierre expressed his pleasure in that the reputation of the Ministry has been restored.

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PRESS RELEASE – Residents whose homes are located along the Marchand River can look forward to even more relief from flooding and land slippage as a new component of the Marchand River Protection Project, a component of the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Program (DVRP) is about to commence.

On Wednesday 30th March 2016, contracts for four retaining walls were signed at a special ceremony held at the Entrepot Playing Field.

Speaking at the Contract Signing Ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport and Parliamentary Representative for Castries East, Hon. Philip J. Pierre spoke very passionately about this project and what it means for the land owners and residents who will likely see a reduction in flooding and have protection from other Natural Hazards.

Hon. Pierre noted that this project compliments the ongoing Public Sanitation Facility currently under construction in the George Charles Boulevard, stating that these projects are meant to improve the living conditions of his constituents, thus ensuring that they are afforded an opportunity to live full and productive lives.

Hon. Pierre recalled that ahead of the 2011 Election cycle, he promised the residents of George Charles Boulevard that if he was elected, he would provide a Public Sanitation Facility and protection from flooding, and is very pleased that he has been able to deliver on these promises.

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Allison A. Jean said that this latest phase of works will cause the construction of a continuous wall from the Entrepot Bridge to the Marchand Bridge, in keeping with the Philosophy of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport of “Building Back Better.” She appealed to residents that while the Government is investing heavily in constructing these walls, it was incumbent on the residents who live near the river to dispose of their solid waste properly, as proper disposal of waste would help further reduce the possibility of flooding.

In this new phase of the programme four (4) retaining walls will be built and or rehabilitated, at a cost of EC$732,197.55. Overall a total of fourteen (14) retaining walls and two drains will be constructed at an expected of approximately USD$2.5 Million. This phase of works is funded by the World Bank under the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP). The works were awarded through a Tender process.

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Step together, fight as one, seek no rest ’til you have done for St Mary’s all you can, prove your worth, and be a man. Those are some of the words of the St Mary’s College (SMC) school song, and the institution’s Class of 1990 is living up to those words with an ongoing project, supported by Harris Paints – Champions of Colour.

The centenary class graduated with precisely 100 students in the summer of 1990. In recent months, groups of men from that class have been spending weekends at their alma mater in Vigie, sprucing up the place by painting the railings of the main building. All of the paint was donated by Harris Paints.

To date, the “Old Boys” have completed half of the task, finishing the lower railings in the principal structure, which incorporates the principal’s office, a laboratory, and classrooms. Next up, the group – which usually numbers about half a dozen Samarians – is set to pressure wash and paint the railings on the top floor, where the staff room is located.

Cuthbert Nathoniel is one of the men behind the project. He explains that the alumni group hit upon the plan to lift the school’s environment after some dialogue with principal, Rowan Seon. He also thanked HArris Paints for the ir generous donation, which was of great help in getting the project going.

A number of members of the Class of 1990 have also contributed to a fund to help some students with bus fare and lunch.There have also been various individual interventions initiated by some of the members of that graduating cohort. Gillray Cadet set up a scholarship fund in 2015, and Glen Stephen has assisted the school’s basketball teams over the years, among others.

Several of the members of the St Mary’s College Class of 1990 now have children at the island’s oldest educational institution for boys. But whether parents of current Samarians or otherwise, the “Old Boys” from the school’s 100th graudating class have fully committed to supporting SMC.

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PRESS RELEASE – The Government of Saint Lucia is embarking on the construction of Wheel Chair Access in the City of Castries to aid in creating accessibility for differently able persons within the City Circuit.  

The project will be financed by the Constituency Development Programme and will be supervised by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport.

A total of fifteen (15) access ramps equipped with hand rails will be constructed along various streets across the City of Castries. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines will be adopted as the standard for the Wheelchair Access Project.

The project will cost approximately $180,000.00 and is expected to change the physical and social character of the city and ensure that the differently able persons have physical access to buildings and other spaces that are used by the public, as well as changes to ensure their access to employment, services and civil participation.

The Government of Saint Lucia will ensure that the relevant stakeholders and emergency and safety agencies are informed of this project in an effort to safeguard and minimize the possibility of emergencies.
The Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services and Transport solicits the cooperation and patience of the commercial houses, pedestrians and general public and wishes to apologize for any inconvenience which may be caused during the project implementation.

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