The persistent issue of free-roaming cattle near the Choc roundabout in St. Lucia is undergoing a significant government-led resolution. Agriculture Minister Lisa Jawahir has confirmed the commencement of a systematic relocation operation, moving approximately 77 heads of cattle from the hazardous highway vicinity to a newly prepared, enclosed site in Cocoa Dan, Vieux Fort.
The initiative, which began over the weekend, involves a complex process of sedating, restraining, and transporting untethered animals. Minister Jawahir acknowledged the preparatory work initiated by her predecessor, Alfred Prospere, noting that several livestock farmers are already utilizing the secured southern pastures. The ministry’s livestock representatives provide daily oversight at the new location.
This action follows a September 2023 vehicle collision with cattle near the roundabout, which accelerated long-standing plans to identify alternative grazing land. A local cattle owner who assessed the Vieux Fort site expressed approval, confirming the area is fully fenced and ready for occupation.
Addressing concerns about merely transferring the problem to another region, Minister Jawahir emphasized the site’s security and distance from major highways. She also revealed ongoing inter-ministerial collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to install signage prohibiting public grazing. Enforcement will leverage the Animals Act (Cap. 3.11), which permits fines up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to two years, and impoundment of livestock for owners who allow animals to cause obstructions or danger. The full relocation is anticipated to require several weeks to complete.