Carib Scope

标签： Saint Lucia

圣卢西亚

  • Saint Lucian athletes set school, national records in US track

    Saint Lucian athletes set school, national records in US track

    Saint Lucian athletes delivered exceptional performances across multiple US collegiate track and field events over the weekend, with two competitors establishing new school records and one setting a national milestone. The remarkable achievements highlight the growing prominence of Caribbean athletes in collegiate sports.

    Eighteen-year-old Naya Jules made an impressive debut for Garden City Community College in Kansas by clearing 3.05 meters in the women’s pole vault. This performance not only set a new school record but also established a fresh Saint Lucia national record. The Babonneau native had previously set a CARIFTA and national record of 3.00 meters at Hasely Crawford Stadium in 2025. Competing at the Friends First Chance Qualifier in Wichita, Jules placed ninth overall in pole vault while also participating in the 60m hurdles, finishing 17th with a time of 10.93 seconds.

    Meanwhile, 24-year-old Carl Drakes continued his successful season with Coppin State University Eagles at the VCU Indoor Invitational. Drakes achieved a narrow second-place finish in the men’s 300m with a school-record time of 33.88 seconds. He additionally placed fourth in the 60m event, clocking 6.70 seconds, just shy of his personal best.

    Other Saint Lucian athletes demonstrated strong performances across various competitions. Asa Francis secured fourth place in the men’s 400m (49.01) and eleventh in the mile (4:29.60) at VCU, following his December achievement of lowering his 1000m national record to 2:28.66. Eighteen-year-old Jasmine Stiede made an encouraging indoor debut for Wichita State Shockers, finishing third in the women’s 800m with a time of 2:25.68.

    At the Lewis vs Purdue Northwest meet in Illinois, freshman Cagini Pilgrim and senior Tyler Toussaint excelled in the men’s 55m, placing first (6.45) and third (6.51) respectively. Additional notable performances included Miguel Charlery’s fifth-place finish in the men’s 60m (6.93) at the West Point Open and Nebia Montrope’s indoor 800m debut for Essex Community College, where she finished 14th with a time of 2:34.25.

  • Ministry urges water conservation in dry season advisory

    Ministry urges water conservation in dry season advisory

    The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change has escalated its warnings to Saint Lucian residents and enterprises as the nation progresses into the most arid phase of its annual dry season. With meteorological patterns indicating significantly diminished rainfall—a condition frequently exacerbated by Saharan dust incursions—authorities highlight critical vulnerabilities in domestic water provision, agricultural output, and commercial continuity. The dry season, spanning from December through May, characteristically presents substantial rainfall deficits. Officials caution that absent preemptive action, these persistent arid conditions may precipitate disruptive supply interruptions, diminished agricultural productivity, and heightened operational stress on water distribution services. In response, the Ministry is advocating for a tripartite strategy: strategic water storage, capacity expansion initiatives, and conscientious consumption practices. The public is advised to tailor water storage plans according to household size, usage patterns, and local disruption risks. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is promoted as a sustainable, year-round auxiliary to the treated supply provided by WASCO. Citizens are further encouraged to remain apprised of developments through weekly forecasts and official advisories. Jason Ernest, Director of the Water Resources Management Agency (WRMA), emphasized that systemic resilience is contingent upon immediate collective action. He asserted that bolstering storage infrastructure, adopting rainwater harvesting, and implementing efficiency measures are pivotal strategies for mitigating shortage vulnerabilities and preserving the island’s finite water resources. For additional guidance, the WRMA can be contacted via telephone at 468-5663, 468-5664, or 468-5669.

  • Charles named in Windies squad for World Cup warmups

    Charles named in Windies squad for World Cup warmups

    Cricket West Indies has unveiled a 16-player squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against Afghanistan, set to commence on January 19 at the Dubai Cricket International Stadium. The selection features a notable return for veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Johnson Charles, who at 37 years old brings extensive experience from his participation in two World T20 championship victories (2012 and 2016).

    The series serves as critical preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup beginning February 6, with the final tournament squad to be announced following this Afghanistan encounter and preceding a subsequent series against South Africa.

    Charles returns to familiar UAE conditions following an impressive performance in the recently concluded International League T20, where he accumulated 244 runs for Sharjah Warriors. His most recent innings against Afghanistan produced a solid 43 runs at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.

    The squad sees several significant changes due to conflicting commitments and strategic rest periods. Regular captain Shai Hope, along with established players Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein, and Sherfane Rutherford, remain unavailable due to participation in the ongoing SA20 tournament. Their absence has prompted the appointment of Brandon King as captain for the series.

    Notable inclusions feature the maiden international call-up for Quentin Sampson, recognized as the Breakout Player of the 2025 Caribbean Premier League. He replaces rested players Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, and Romario Shepherd as part of Cricket West Indies’ workload management strategy.

    The selection also marks the return of fast bowler Shamar Joseph and batsman Evin Lewis, both having successfully completed return-to-play protocols following injury recoveries.

    Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the dual purpose of the series, stating: ‘These competitive matches in subcontinental conditions provide ideal preparation for confidence building ahead of the World Cup. Simultaneously, they offer a valuable platform to reassess players returning from extended absences and those stepping into new roles before final tournament selection.’

    The squad will depart the Caribbean on January 14, coinciding with Charles’ birthday, with arrival in the UAE scheduled for January 16 ahead of the series opener.

  • Pierre promises continuity and confidence in 2026

    Pierre promises continuity and confidence in 2026

    Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has unveiled an ambitious governance blueprint for 2026, emphasizing policy continuity across infrastructure development, social welfare enhancement, and environmental protection. During a pre-Cabinet briefing, the leader articulated his administration’s commitment to maintaining momentum from the previous term, particularly regarding major national projects.

    Infrastructure development constitutes a cornerstone of the government’s agenda. The Gros Islet highway project is scheduled to commence construction within the first half of 2026, while the Hewanorra International Airport terminal development—described as the nation’s largest infrastructure undertaking—advances through international tender processes. Contract confirmation for the airport project is anticipated before March concludes, with construction expected to initiate by mid-2026.

    Social infrastructure receives equal prioritization, with the Gros Islet Police Headquarters nearing completion and slated for inauguration during independence celebrations. Housing initiatives at Talvern and Rockhall will progress significantly, alongside formalized land distribution to long-standing occupants who have resided on government properties for decades.

    Educational reforms will emphasize continuing, adult, and special needs education, addressing functional illiteracy through specialized curricula. The government will strengthen its partnership with the Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education (CARE) to support vulnerable youth, particularly young men facing social challenges.

    Environmental enforcement will intensify against abandoned vehicles, derelict properties, and unused lands, which Pierre identified as both aesthetic concerns and security risks. Pensioners will benefit from expanded tax relief measures, with legislation ensuring retroactive application for both public and private sector retirees.

    The Prime Minister expressed robust confidence in Saint Lucia’s economic trajectory, highlighting anticipated investments in the hospitality sector and renewed development interest in Rodney Bay and surrounding regions.

  • When will the Vigie Beach sewage leak saga end?

    When will the Vigie Beach sewage leak saga end?

    After seven years of recurring contamination, Vigie Beach in Saint Lucia may finally see relief from its chronic sewage leakage problem. The National Conservation Authority (NCA) has initiated containment measures by cordoning off affected sections and implementing temporary repairs to address the foul-smelling wastewater seepage that has plagued this popular tourist destination.

    The environmental issue originates from three of eight waste tanks positioned opposite the George F. L. Charles Airport, which process effluent from eight beachfront restaurants and two public facilities. Local vendors and tourism workers report that the most recent leakage had been developing for several weeks before reaching critical levels last week, creating unsanitary conditions that have significantly impacted business operations and visitor experiences.

    While the NCA acknowledges the complexity of the situation, stakeholders remain skeptical about temporary measures. “This has been a recurring problem for seven years,” commented a local tourism employee who requested anonymity. “Although they’ve sectioned off the area with caution tape and are working on repairs, I’ll only celebrate when we have a permanent solution.”

    The environmental hazard has drawn sharp criticism from visitors, with tourist Maria Scott describing the situation as “appalling” and “disgusting” in video footage shared with local media. Her husband Michael added that the sewage problem “puts Saint Lucia on a bad scale” and requires immediate resolution.

    Visual evidence from the past month shows wastewater spreading across sandy areas and onto adjacent roadways, with vehicles and pedestrians occasionally passing through the contaminated zones. Historical reports indicate similar incidents dating back to October 2022, when burst pipes beneath beachfront establishments caused comparable contamination issues.

    The root causes remain contested between authorities and business operators. The NCA maintains that poor compliance with grease trap installation policies among restaurants contributes significantly to pipe blockages, while some tenants argue that inadequate maintenance by authorities is the primary culprit.

    According to DBS News reports, the NCA has previously replaced piping systems without achieving lasting results. The authority has indicated that a permanent solution might require temporary closure of the restaurant and bar complex, though officials express concern about the economic impact on local livelihoods. The NCA has confirmed ongoing consultations with engineering experts to develop a comprehensive long-term resolution.

  • Auguste back in charge of local cricket

    Auguste back in charge of local cricket

    The Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA) has confirmed its leadership team for the upcoming term following its biennial general meeting held January 10 at the Odan Human Resource Development Centre. Wayne Auguste, a seasoned strategy and financial consultant, secured his second consecutive term as president after first assuming the role in 2023.

    The newly formed executive committee features two significant changes to its leadership structure. Christopher Peters assumes the position of first vice president, succeeding John Estephane, who recently transitioned to parliamentary duties as the member for Babonneau and Minister in the Ministry of Tourism. In another strategic appointment, former West Indies women’s cricket captain Eugena Gregg joins the leadership as third vice president, taking over from Roseline Preville with specific responsibility for women’s cricket development.

    Several incumbent officers retained their positions through unopposed re-elections, including Second Vice President Nerville Florence, Secretary Lucy Goodman, Treasurer Celestin Laurent, and Principal Secretary Jacqueline Inglis.

    The association formally acknowledged the participation of its members and affiliates in the nomination process, noting the “spirit of unity and volunteerism that characterises our cricket community” in an official release.

    Looking ahead to the new season, the SLNCA outlined an ambitious domestic calendar featuring multiple youth development programs and competitive tournaments. These include the Sandals Under-19 Boys’ Tournament, Prime Minister’s Independence Cup, Saint Lucia Premier League, and the return of women’s competitions such as the Alicia John T20 and Acynta Auguste 50-Over Tournaments.

    In preparation for the upcoming season, the association presented the Cricket Umpires Association with 32 red-ball and 32 white-ball uniforms, ensuring officials are fully equipped for all formats of the game.

  • Saint Lucian boxers express gratitude ahead of elite training stint

    Saint Lucian boxers express gratitude ahead of elite training stint

    Two of Saint Lucia’s most promising welterweight boxers, Hervé Charlemagne and Daniel Martin, have departed for an intensive training program at the prestigious CREPS Antilles-Guyane center in Guadeloupe. The specialized sports facility in Les Abymes is renowned for cultivating elite athletic talent through comprehensive development programs that integrate sports education, animation career training, and high-performance support services including medical, nutritional, and psychological conditioning.

    Both athletes have demonstrated exceptional skill at regional competitions, with Martin recently clinching victory at the 2025 OECS Boxing Championships where he played a pivotal role in securing Saint Lucia’s championship retention. Charlemagne previously led his national team to a podium finish at the Caribbean School Boys and Girls Boxing Tournament in Guyana, showcasing his technical prowess and competitive spirit.

    In pre-departure statements, both boxers expressed profound appreciation for the opportunity. “This represents a transformative phase in my boxing career,” Charlemagne noted. “Training at CREPS will immerse me in superior competitive environments and professional discipline. I extend gratitude to the Boxing Association and all supporters of my potential—I am committed to rigorous training and representing Saint Lucia with honor.”

    Martin shared similar enthusiasm for the developmental opportunity: “Such chances are rare and precious. I anticipate substantial learning, skill enhancement, and testing my capabilities against top-tier opponents. This program will refine my techniques and better prepare me for future challenges. Carrying the Saint Lucian flag into this experience fills me with immense pride.”

    The initiative is a strategic component of the Saint Lucia Boxing Association’s (SLBA) broader mandate to provide international exposure and competitive preparation for its athletes. SLBA President David “Shakes” Christopher emphasized the program’s significance: “This immersion represents a crucial investment in the future of Saint Lucian boxing. Hervé and Daniel have demonstrated remarkable commitment, discipline, and potential. Their experience at CREPS will dramatically accelerate their development, and we expect them to return as more disciplined, technically advanced athletes ready to excel at international levels.”

  • Marie’s Shack promised new home in upgraded beach park

    Marie’s Shack promised new home in upgraded beach park

    A longstanding culinary institution on Saint Lucia’s Reduit Beach finds itself at the center of a legal and emotional confrontation between tradition and development. Marie’s Fish Shack, operated by Ann Marie Farrel for 47 years, has received formal notice from the Department of Crown Lands regarding unauthorized operation on government property.

    The December 17, 2025 notification cited violations of both the Crown Lands Act and Physical Planning and Development Act, establishing a January 5, 2026 deadline for structure removal. This action prompted immediate public concern and official clarification from government authorities.

    While acknowledging the establishment’s cultural significance and community value, officials emphasized that all businesses operating on Crown Land—including those along the Kings’ Chain—require formal authorization from the Commissioner of Crown Lands, regardless of their operational history.

    Contrary to evacuation implications, the government revealed comprehensive relocation plans within the Mount Pimard Beach Park development. The proposed solution involves transferring operations to an enhanced beachfront location featuring modern amenities including dedicated parking, security services, restroom facilities, shower areas, dining spaces, recreational zones, and playground installations.

    Strategic planning between Invest Saint Lucia and the A’ILA Resort developer allegedly incorporated provisions for Marie’s future operations from the project’s inception. Initial designs specifically allocated space for a fish restaurant while creating expanded opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

    The government expressed appreciation for Marie’s contributions while maintaining that legal compliance remains essential for equitable business practices. Other unauthorized operators along the Kings’ Chain were encouraged to regularize their status through proper channels.

  • Saint Lucia announces Non-Binding US Deportee Agreement

    Saint Lucia announces Non-Binding US Deportee Agreement

    Saint Lucia’s government has initiated preliminary discussions with the United States regarding the potential acceptance of third-country nationals deported under U.S. immigration policies. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre confirmed the development during his national address on January 11th, revealing the signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes a framework for future dialogue.

    The agreement, as detailed in an official government fact sheet, explicitly creates no legal obligations or automatic commitments. Rather, it serves as a diplomatic instrument to facilitate conversations about potential cooperation. This approach mirrors similar positions adopted by fellow CARICOM member states, demonstrating regional coordination on migration matters.

    Prime Minister Pierre emphasized Saint Lucia’s foreign policy principles, stating: “We believe stability is best secured through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for established international norms. We’ll continue working with regional partners to maintain the Caribbean as a zone of peace.” He further reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to international law protections that safeguard all countries regardless of size.

    The Prime Minister acknowledged significant challenges ahead, citing global uncertainty, climate threats, and economic pressures. He specifically referenced recent developments in Venezuela that have disrupted regional air travel, affected trade and tourism, and created concerns for small open economies throughout the Caribbean.

    Regarding visa accessibility, Pierre confirmed no official communication has been received indicating changes to U.S. visa policies for Saint Lucian citizens. However, he urged responsible behavior and cautious social media usage to maintain favorable travel conditions. “Our future prosperity cannot be secured by the government alone,” he noted, “but the shocking behavior of a critical mass can bring harm to all of us.”

    The Prime Minister concluded by underscoring his administration’s primary responsibility: “I’ll always put you first and act in the best interest of the people of our beloved country, no matter how difficult the decisions may be.”

  • Dennery, Anse La Raye set for U15 girls football final

    Dennery, Anse La Raye set for U15 girls football final

    An unexpected championship showdown is set for Saturday, January 17th at the SLFA Technical Centre in Grande Riviere, Dennery, as underdog Dennery and tournament favorites Anse La Raye advanced through dramatic semifinal matches in the Saint Lucia Football Association’s Under-15 Girls Championship.

    In a remarkable display of determination, the Dennery squad achieved a stunning 2-0 victory over Desruisseaux despite playing with only ten players for the entire match. The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when an unfortunate own goal from Desruisseaux’s Paisley Mc Fairlane put Dennery ahead. Trudy Joseph secured the impressive win with a clinical second strike in the 25th minute, demonstrating exceptional composure against the numerical disadvantage.

    Dennery’s head coach Ruphinia Joseph praised her team’s extraordinary resilience, stating, ‘Facing this challenge with reduced numbers required tremendous mental strength. These players have internalized that nothing is impossible when you maintain focus and determination. Their performance today proves their championship mentality.’

    Coach Joseph expressed overwhelming confidence in her squad’s potential, adding, ‘These exceptionally talented athletes represent the future of national football. Our rigorous training regimen and winning mentality have prepared us thoroughly for the final challenge.’

    The second semifinal delivered equal drama as Anse La Raye and Soufriere battled through regulation time without scoring. The deadlock continued until penalty kicks, where Anse La Raye emerged victorious with a 3-2 shootout triumph. This marked the second consecutive draw between these teams, following their 1-1 group stage encounter.

    Anse La Raye coach Jovette Wilson acknowledged areas for improvement despite the victory: ‘Our defensive organization requires refinement before the final. Having previously defeated Dennery in tournament play, we understand the tactical approach needed for success. Our focus now turns to addressing defensive vulnerabilities while maintaining our offensive threat.’

    The tournament concludes next weekend with Desruisseaux facing Soufriere in the third-place playoff before the championship final between these two contrasting teams—Dennery’s inspirational underdog story versus Anse La Raye’s established tournament pedigree.