标签： Saint Lucia

The United Workers Party (UWP) has announced a series of ambitious proposals aimed at empowering Saint Lucia’s youth and revitalizing the nation’s cultural landscape. During a youth engagement event titled “Clock It” held on November 2 at Utopia Gardens in Ti Rocher, Micoud, UWP leader Allen Chastanet outlined plans to elevate local talent and extend Carnival celebrations. The party proposed showcasing Dennery Segment artistes on a grand stage, akin to the international platform provided for John Legend during the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival, and extending Carnival festivities throughout July.

Michael ‘Mikey’ Pilgrim, former interim Prime Minister of Saint Lucia and deputy political leader of the now-defunct Progressive Labour Party (PLP), shared his insights on the upcoming general elections in an interview with St. Lucia Times. Pilgrim, who served as interim prime minister from January to May 1982, emphasized that it is too early to predict the election outcome, stating, ‘At the moment, I think it is too early for me to make a call as to who will win the elections.’ He clarified that his remarks on November 4 were purely personal opinions. Pilgrim anticipates a fiercely contested election, noting that while the Labour Party gained momentum in the previous election, the current political landscape appears more settled. He advised voters to carefully consider which party is best suited to lead the nation in the coming years. Pilgrim also highlighted the evolving nature of political campaigns, contrasting the traditional community meetings of the 1980s with today’s reliance on social media. He observed that many young people now follow campaigns online, partly due to safety concerns and increased sophistication among voters. Pilgrim called for more substantive discussions during public engagements, urging politicians to focus on issues rather than personal attacks. He stressed the importance of presenting evidence-based facts and preparing thoroughly for public appearances to minimize mistakes. Pilgrim concluded by advocating for clean, fact-driven elections that prioritize the nation’s welfare over political theatrics.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has swiftly dismissed the United Workers Party’s (UWP) recently unveiled Youth SOS Plan, labeling key proposals as “almost ludicrous,” “ironic,” and devoid of “any basis in reality.” Speaking at a pre-Cabinet press briefing on Monday, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) leader delivered a detailed rebuttal, questioning the practicality of the opposition’s seven-part youth empowerment strategy and highlighting perceived contradictions in their track record. The UWP’s plan includes initiatives such as a Mortgage Guarantee Programme, Digital Economy Development, Expansion of the National Youth Council, Appointment of Youth Ambassadors, Grants of up to $25,000 for youth businesses, a Dedicated Dennery Segment event, and Youth inclusion in major policy decisions. Pierre first addressed the Dennery Segment event proposal, calling it “almost ludicrous” given the UWP’s past criticisms of the genre. He expressed support for initiatives benefiting the Dennery Segment but questioned the opposition’s sincerity. Pierre also criticized the UWP’s previous restructuring of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival as a “downgrade.” Regarding the $25,000 youth business grants, he noted the irony of the UWP promoting such initiatives after previously criticizing the Youth Economy Agency. Pierre emphasized that his administration pioneered youth grants and highlighted existing efforts, such as issuing a diplomatic passport to Olympic Champion Julien Alfred to showcase Saint Lucian excellence abroad. On the digital economy, Pierre pointed to his government’s progress, including cybersecurity training and the One Laptop per Child initiative. He also questioned the feasibility of the Mortgage Guarantee Programme, asking who would serve as the guarantor and outlining existing measures to support homeownership. Concluding his response, Pierre dismissed the UWP’s plan as unrealistic, stating, “I think these promises are what they are – promises. They have no basis in reality.”

The United Workers Party (UWP) has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at empowering Saint Lucia’s youth, with a focus on practical support and long-term development. At a youth rally on Sunday night, Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet introduced the party’s 7-Point ‘Youth SOS Plan,’ designed to address critical challenges faced by young people and foster their growth through innovative programs and policies.

A cornerstone of the plan is the Mortgage Guarantee Programme, which seeks to assist first-time homebuyers in accessing affordable starter homes and apartments. This initiative will leverage targeted financing and public-private partnerships to make homeownership more attainable for young individuals. Additionally, the UWP proposes the establishment of a national Digital Academy, offering certifications in high-demand fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, robotics, content creation, and digital marketing.

Other key components of the plan include grants of up to $25,000 for youth-led businesses, the appointment of youth ambassadors in sports, entertainment, and business, and guaranteed youth representation on constituency councils, statutory boards, and national committees.

During his address, Chastanet criticized the current administration’s approach to youth development, citing financial mismanagement, particularly within the National Lotteries Authority (NLA). He highlighted the diversion of funds intended for youth scholarships, stating, ‘The NLA is going to repay $1 million a month for 15 years. That’s $15 million a year that should be going for the scholarships of young people.’

Chastanet also pledged to revitalize the National Youth Council, describing it as ‘the true voice of young people.’ He committed to providing the council with financial resources, staffing, and office space, emphasizing the importance of equipping young people with skills in emerging digital fields.

The UWP’s Youth SOS Plan reflects a commitment to building a Saint Lucia where the next generation is empowered to shape the nation’s future through innovation, opportunity, and leadership. Chastanet concluded his speech by urging the youth to recognize the difference between short-term handouts and long-term investments in their future, stating, ‘If we are committed and with the right leadership, we can take you to the promised land.’