标签： Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia has concluded a comprehensive nationwide consultation aimed at shaping its forthcoming National Policy for Persons with Disabilities. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment, took place from October 13 to 23, 2025, and involved over 200 participants across 14 sessions. Facilitated by Dr. Clementia Eugene, the consultations brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including individuals with disabilities, caregivers, service providers, and advocates. The process highlighted Saint Lucia’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Marrakesh Treaty. However, participants identified persistent challenges in accessibility, employment, healthcare, and social protection, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and sustained investment. The draft policy, rooted in principles of equity, autonomy, and respect for diversity, envisions a future where persons with disabilities and their families enjoy equal rights and opportunities to participate fully in national life. Key recommendations included enhanced support for independent living through training, respite care, and financial assistance, as well as inclusive access to cultural, recreational, and sporting events. Dr. Eugene will now integrate the feedback into a revised draft, accompanied by an implementation plan and monitoring framework. Once finalized, the policy is expected to serve as a blueprint for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society in Saint Lucia, ensuring dignity, accessibility, and opportunity for all.

A significant drug interception at Port Castries on October 29, 2025, has led to the arrest of Kermisha Florent, a woman from La Croix, for possessing 5.38 kg of suspected cannabis. The illicit shipment, with an estimated street value of EC$161,000, was discovered during a routine inspection by law enforcement officers. Florent was apprehended on-site and later granted bail of $14,000 when she appeared before the First District Court on November 3, 2025. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December 9. According to police reports, Florent had arrived at the port to clear a shipment when officers inspected a box in her presence, uncovering six concealed packages of suspected cannabis. Inspector Shervon Mathieu, Head of the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit, emphasized the critical role of such operations in combating the influx of drugs and weapons into Saint Lucia. ‘The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force remains steadfast in its commitment to public safety,’ he stated. ‘These targeted efforts are essential in reducing illegal firearms, intercepting narcotics, and holding suspects accountable in court.’ This bust is part of a broader initiative by law enforcement to disrupt organized crime and enhance border security through intelligence-led operations at the island’s ports.

Saint Lucia is poised to establish a National Maritime Authority, a significant step aimed at separating regulatory oversight from port operations and modernizing the nation’s maritime governance framework. The announcement was made during a Maritime Symposium hosted by the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), where officials unveiled a series of reforms designed to enhance safety, professional standards, and international compliance. Lorraine Matthew, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport, emphasized that the reform, led by a Cabinet-appointed committee chaired by her office, will eliminate conflicts of interest and ensure a modernized transport governance structure. The symposium served as a critical platform for dialogue, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss emerging opportunities and strategies to advance the maritime industry. Among the initiatives highlighted was the National Demarcation Programme, which aims to improve safety and spatial management along Saint Lucia’s coastline. Matthew noted that all equipment has been procured, technical training finalized, and contractor selection is underway, with Rodney Bay chosen as the first site due to its high marine activity density. Additional reforms include licensing and certification upgrades, streamlined vessel concessions, and enhanced safety and environmental measures. Internationally, Saint Lucia reaffirmed its support for the High Seas Treaty, a vital tool for global cooperation in biodiversity conservation. Domestically, the country is modernizing its maritime legislative framework through measures such as finalizing the Open Ship Registry Framework and enacting the Marine Pollution Bill. These reforms collectively strengthen Saint Lucia’s compliance with international conventions and reinforce its position as a responsible maritime sector.

Veterans In Sports Inc. has once again demonstrated its commitment to social change with its annual ‘Kick for a Cure’ initiative. This community-driven event, which also marks the official launch of the veterans’ football season, serves as a powerful platform for raising cancer awareness. This year’s edition, held on November 1 and 2 at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet, saw 12 teams, each comprising 30 players, compete in the Super Knockout Championship. The Marchand Veterans emerged victorious, defeating the reigning champions Vieux Fort North with a 3-1 scoreline. Lincoln ‘Ice Cream Man’ Philip stole the show with a hat-trick, earning him multiple accolades, including MVP of the Finals and the Tournament, as well as Most Goals of the Tournament. Marchand’s Canicius Philip was also recognized as the Best Goalkeeper. Beyond the competitive spirit, the event carried a profound message, symbolically issuing a ‘red card’ to cancer. With non-communicable diseases accounting for 82 percent of deaths on the island, ‘Kick for a Cure’ served as both a celebration of sport and a call to action for public health. Alvin Malaykan, CEO of Veterans In Sports, emphasized the organization’s goal to encourage regular health checkups, particularly among older men who are often reluctant to seek medical attention. This year, the initiative partnered with the Saint Lucia Cancer Society, which provided on-site medical professionals to offer cancer screening information and address public inquiries. Dr. Tamara Remy, one of the participating professionals, highlighted the event’s timing, coinciding with Men’s Health Month, as an opportune moment to educate and fundraise for cancer awareness.