Carib Scope

标签： Saint Lucia

圣卢西亚

  • LUCELEC defends record on road rehabilitation project

    LUCELEC defends record on road rehabilitation project

    A public disagreement between St. Lucia’s primary electricity provider and a construction contractor has brought to light critical issues concerning infrastructure project management and cost accountability. Gilroy Pultie, Managing Director of St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC), has publicly addressed concerns raised by Rayneau Gajadhar, the contractor for the Norbert Road Rehabilitation Project, who accused the utility company of insufficient cost transparency and public safety negligence.

    The controversy emerged when Gajadhar claimed his team proceeded with construction after LUCELEC declined four formal requests for a detailed breakdown of a $554,878.86 estimate for relocating electrical infrastructure. In response, Pultie defended the company’s pricing methodology, explaining that LUCELEC employs standardized procedures aligned with international standards and best practices.

    Pultie emphasized the company’s fiduciary responsibility to manage costs prudently, noting that unnecessary cost absorption could ultimately impact consumer electricity tariffs. “Costs associated with relocating power lines for road works should properly be treated as project expenses borne by the government, relevant agencies, or contractors,” Pultie stated.

    The estimated costs cover substantial work including the relocation of 21-25 electrical poles and sections of the existing distribution network. Pultie acknowledged the need for improved stakeholder coordination in future projects, stating: “Going forward, projects like this require more responsible management through enhanced planning and coordination among all stakeholders to prevent public safety hazards from occurring.”

    Despite the tension, constructive dialogue continues between LUCELEC, the contractor, and the Ministry of Infrastructure overseeing the project. Recent discussions have yielded additional cost breakdowns, with expectations that the Ministry will provide feedback within days. The costing estimates were developed using updated technical specifications including road profiles, landowner information, and civil works designs to ensure safe repositioning of electrical infrastructure.

    LUCELEC reaffirms its commitment to supporting the safe and efficient completion of the Norbert Road relocation works while maintaining its standardized costing approach for infrastructure projects.

  • Stewart named businessman/philanthropist of the year

    Stewart named businessman/philanthropist of the year

    Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, has received the distinguished Businessman/Philanthropist of the Year award for 2025 from Caribbean National Weekly (CNW), recognizing his exceptional leadership and humanitarian contributions during a period of both remarkable achievements and significant regional challenges.

    The regional publication highlighted Stewart’s multifaceted accomplishments throughout the year, including his strategic guidance of the luxury hospitality empire, substantial investments in Caribbean tourism infrastructure, and exemplary crisis management capabilities. His invitation to join the prestigious Wall Street Journal CEO Council further underscored his standing as a globally respected business leader.

    A pivotal moment in Stewart’s leadership emerged during late October’s Hurricane Melissa, which inflicted severe damage on Jamaica’s tourism infrastructure. Stewart orchestrated a comprehensive response strategy featuring transparent communication with international travel partners and a groundbreaking commitment to employee welfare. He guaranteed full payroll continuity and Christmas bonuses for all Sandals and Beaches employees, including those at temporarily closed resorts undergoing restoration. The company additionally allocated over US$3 million in direct staff recovery assistance for storm-affected families.

    Under Stewart’s stewardship, the Sandals Foundation achieved record levels of community engagement, delivering targeted disaster-recovery support across healthcare systems, livelihood restoration, and environmental conservation initiatives throughout the Caribbean region.

    In accepting the honor, Stewart expressed profound humility, emphasizing the collective nature of the achievement. “This award reflects far more than any one individual. It is a direct result of people showing up every day for their communities and believing business is a force for good,” he stated. He dedicated the recognition to the organization’s teams and the Sandals Foundation for their ongoing work in education, healthcare, disaster relief, and environmental stewardship.

  • Vieux Fort schools hit the track

    Vieux Fort schools hit the track

    In a display of youthful athleticism and spirited competition, Walcott House emerged victorious over Lewis House at the Vieux Fort Infant and Primary Schools championship held Wednesday at Phillip Marcellin Grounds. The closely contested meet culminated in a decisive 496-437 point victory for Walcott, with enthusiastic support from teachers, parents, and community members fueling the competitors throughout the event.

    The championship showcased exceptional talent across multiple age categories. In the girls’ open 1000m race, McKenzee Ambrose, Andia Tal, and Shannia Classe delivered impressive performances, while the boys’ 1200m event featured strong showings from Markie Louis, Treyvion Felicien, and Khalil Jonas.

    Notable individual achievements emerged in the Under-11 and Under-13 divisions. Arianna Descartes demonstrated remarkable consistency in U11 girls’ events, while Aiden Smith dominated the U13 boys’ category. Mariella Descartes excelled in U13 girls’ middle-distance competitions, highlighting the depth of talent across age groups.

    Relay events formed a centerpiece of the championship program, emphasizing teamwork, coordination, and technical precision. Athletes including Arianna Descartes, Kyron Beckford, Curticia Marcellin, Aiden Smith, and Nya Joseph executed flawless baton exchanges and powerful anchor legs, contributing significantly to their teams’ successes.

    Organized under the leadership of physical education teachers Sashima Harry and Jesse Fontallio, the event represented weeks of dedicated preparation. Fontallio emphasized the institutional support for physical education, noting: ‘The principals of both schools recognize physical education as essential to holistic student development. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in making events like this possible.’

    The championship benefited from substantial community and corporate backing, with donations and parental involvement playing crucial roles. ‘We’ve received tremendous support from the commercial sector and parents alike,’ Fontallio told St Lucia Times. ‘The turnout today demonstrates how deeply our community values youth development through sports.’

    This collaborative meet established a robust framework for future inter-school initiatives within the Vieux Fort district, effectively embodying the ‘Phoenix Stars Rising’ ethos while promoting comprehensive student development through athletic excellence.

  • Simon House leads the charge at BCGRCP sports meet

    Simon House leads the charge at BCGRCP sports meet

    In a vibrant display of youthful athleticism and school spirit, Simon (Red House) claimed victory at the Bishop Charles Gachet RC Primary School’s annual track and field meet. The event, hosted at Mindoo Philip Park this past Wednesday, saw Red House secure a commanding win with 401 total points. They were followed by Quinlan (Green House) in second place with 344 points, and George (Blue House) in third with 238 points.

    Principal Alison Lewis, in a discussion with St Lucia Times, emphasized that the competition’s purpose extends far beyond determining a winner on the track. She framed the event as a critical component of the school’s holistic education strategy, designed to foster essential life skills and personal development outside the traditional classroom setting.

    “Participation in sports is fundamental for character development,” Lewis stated. “It instills the value of teamwork while simultaneously encouraging children to strive for their personal best. For some students who may face academic challenges, the track becomes a venue where they can excel and build immense self-confidence. This newfound belief in their abilities invariably transfers to their academic pursuits, creating a positive feedback loop of achievement.”

    The event was notably bolstered by strong community involvement, with parents enthusiastically filling the stands to cheer on the young athletes. Principal Lewis highlighted their indispensable dual role, noting that their support went beyond mere spectatorship. With a limited teaching staff stretched thin across various organizational duties—from managing the public address system to directing the meet and managing concessions—parental assistance with supervision was crucial for the event’s seamless execution.

    School facilitators expressed strong confidence that the values promoted through such activities—including discipline, cooperation, and resilience—are instrumental in nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for success both on and off the field.

  • Roadworks around power poles spark safety concerns

    Roadworks around power poles spark safety concerns

    A critical infrastructure project in Saint Lucia has reached an impasse due to a financial disagreement between the contracted construction firm and the national electricity provider, raising significant safety concerns for northern commuters.

    The Norbert Road rehabilitation project, designed to alleviate traffic congestion on the Sir Julian R Hunte Highway, has advanced to its final phase with construction occurring around existing electricity poles. Rayneau Gajadhar, owner of Rayneau Construction & Industrial Products Ltd., revealed his team proceeded with work after four formal requests for a detailed cost breakdown from Saint Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) were denied. The utility company had provided an estimated quote of $554,878.86 for relocating electrical infrastructure.

    “It’s impossible for us to be paying all those monies out and not know what you’re going to do and what we’re paying for,” Gajadhar stated in a social media video addressing the situation. His company has since installed reflective markers on the poles to enhance nighttime visibility as an interim safety measure.

    LUCELEC Managing Director Gilroy Pultie confirmed in an official statement that the company received the contractor’s request and has been engaged in discussions with both the contractor and overseeing government ministry over the past fortnight. “We have subsequently provided further breakdown of the cost. It is under discussion,” Pultie stated, expressing expectation that the ministry would provide feedback within days.

    The electricity provider defended its pricing methodology, explaining that it employs standard unit rates for materials and labor. Pultie emphasized the company’s responsibility to manage costs prudently to avoid passing unnecessary expenses to consumers through tariff adjustments. “Costs like the relocation of lines associated with roadworks should be treated and passed on to the government, or the agency or the contractor as part of the project,” he asserted.

    The managing director called for more responsible planning of future infrastructure projects, stressing the need for improved coordination among all stakeholders to prevent similar situations where utility infrastructure becomes public hazards.

    Meanwhile, northern residents and daily commuters who regularly use Norbert Road to avoid highway gridlock have expressed growing concerns about safety prioritization. One Bonneterre Gardens resident told local media that the apparent disregard for pedestrian and motorist safety represents “really bad optics for both companies” amidst their financial dispute.

    With approximately 21-25 electrical poles and sections of the distribution network requiring relocation, further delays now appear inevitable for the government’s congestion-reduction initiative.

  • SLRFU sending 43 to compete in Sevens tournament

    SLRFU sending 43 to compete in Sevens tournament

    A 43-member rugby delegation from Saint Lucia is poised for international competition at the prestigious French West Indies Sevens Trophy in Guadeloupe this weekend. The Saint Lucia Rugby Football Union (SLRFU) will field competitive teams across three categories—men’s, women’s, and junior divisions—marking a significant representation for the nation.

    The tournament, organized by the Goodluck Rugby Club at Bas-du-Fort pitch in Gosier, will feature nine teams per division including representatives from Martinique, St Martin, and Suriname. The women’s squad, competing in Pool A, will vie for the Monique Ribeaut Shield while the men’s team challenges for the Tristan Chauvel Trophy. The sporting event will culminate in traditional carnival celebrations.

    Technical Director Wayne Pantor expressed profound confidence in the contingent: “This tournament offers an exceptional platform for our athletes to acquire international experience against elite competition. We anticipate our teams will demonstrate the core values of Saint Lucian rugby—passion, pride, and perseverance.”

    The roster comprises both SLRFU Academy prospects and diaspora athletes from Canada and the United States. Extensive preparation has been undertaken through rigorous training regimens and practice matches to refine tactical execution and technical proficiency.

    Official statements acknowledged crucial support from sponsors and the Saint Lucian community, emphasizing the team’s commitment to competing with utmost integrity and sportsmanship throughout the championship journey.

  • De Freitas heads new SLYC leadership team

    De Freitas heads new SLYC leadership team

    The Saint Lucia Yacht Club (SLYC), the island’s longest-running active sporting institution with over six decades of maritime heritage, has undergone a significant leadership transition following its Annual General Meeting on January 25. Josh De Freitas, previously serving as secretary, has been elected as the new Commodore, succeeding Peter Lang who held the position since 2018.

    The organizational restructuring extends throughout the executive team, with Timothy Moffat retaining his role as vice-commodore while other key positions see fresh appointments. Fredric Sweeney, an accomplished sailor and coaching professional, assumes the responsibilities of rear commodore. The financial stewardship transitions to Joel Wallace as treasurer, while Zandra Perreira steps into the secretary role previously occupied by De Freitas.

    In official communications, De Freitas expressed profound gratitude to outgoing leader Lang, acknowledging his transformative tenure that substantially strengthened the club’s operational framework, expanded membership base, and enhanced its standing within Saint Lucia’s sailing community. The transition statement highlighted Lang’s ‘dedicated service, leadership, and significant contributions to the club’s success.’

    The SLYC continues to serve as a hub for maritime activities, offering regular squash training and competitions alongside weekly sailing instruction at its Rodney Bay facility. The club maintains its competitive calendar with the annual November Mango Bowl Regatta and participates in regional sailing events including Martinique’s Schoelcher Nautical Week.

  • Emmanuel paces Augier to victory at Choiseul Sec

    Emmanuel paces Augier to victory at Choiseul Sec

    Augier House emerged victorious at the Choiseul Secondary School’s 2026 track and field championships, dethroning defending champions Jean House through an outstanding performance led by double CARIFTA champion Jady Emmanuel.

    Emmanuel, who previously secured gold medals in the Under-17 girls’ 100m and 200m at the 2025 CARIFTA Games, demonstrated exceptional versatility by capturing four gold medals in Division 2 competitions. The star athlete dominated the 100m with a time of 12.30 seconds, claimed the 200m title in 26.70 seconds, and added gold medals in both long jump and javelin throw events.

    Augier’s comprehensive team performance accumulated 1,024 points, significantly outpacing Jean House who finished second with 816 points. King House secured third position with 637 points, while Darcheville House placed fourth with 506 points.

    The championship witnessed several standout performances across divisions. Shawn Stephen contributed significantly to Augier’s victory in Division 3, winning gold in the 200m (25.10) and 400m (58.50), while earning silver in discus throw and bronze in long jump.

    Jean House showcased promising talent despite their second-place finish. Jeaneil William captured the boys’ 100m (11.3) and 200m (24.0) titles in Division 2, adding a silver medal in long jump. Kianna Jean dominated Division 2 girls’ events with victories in 100m (13.30), 200m (28.0), and long jump.

    In Division 4 competitions, Cristiano Nestor and Merkisha St Catherine both claimed titles for Jean House. Nestor won long jump and ball throw with additional silver in shot put, while St Catherine achieved triple gold in 80m (11.30), 150m (21.20), and shot put, plus silver in ball throw.

    The championships also featured impressive performances from Oryan Montoute of Jean House who won Division 4 boys’ 80m (10.60) and 150m (20.0), while Jeremiah Savery secured the 300m (49.20) for Augier, and Kershan Norlay claimed the 600m (1:58.20) for King House.

  • GMC, Northern record wins in Bay Bay Cup

    GMC, Northern record wins in Bay Bay Cup

    In a dramatic evening of football at the Grande Riviere Playing Field, defending national club champions GMC United and Bay Bay Cup holders Northern United FC both registered their first tournament victories on Wednesday, February 4th.

    GMC United, fielding a significantly transformed lineup since their 2025 championship win, dominated their local rivals Dominators FC with a commanding 4-0 victory in the Grande Riviere derby. After a scoreless first half marked by physical play, the match exploded in the 53rd minute when Mekhi Stanislaus broke the deadlock. The momentum continued just sixty seconds later as Under-16 striker Shaquil Martelly—the smallest player on the pitch—delivered an spectacular long-range strike that electrified the crowd. Tonius Simon sealed the comprehensive win with two additional goals within a five-minute span.

    Head coach Daren Gaspard acknowledged the challenging first half: “We started a bit slow in the first half, [and] Dominators were a bit physical, due respect to them, we played on their home ground.” He credited the team’s second-half transformation to tactical adjustments made during halftime: “We went in with a plan for the second half, and we executed properly. You could see the changes had an impact on the game.”

    The victory carries emotional significance for GMC United, who have persevered through the tragic losses of players Sherman Augustin and Ajani Lebourne in 2025, along with several transfers that necessitated relying on younger talent like Martelly and goalkeeper Jahim Henry. New acquisitions including Trevon St Prix have provided much-needed stability as the team prepares for a crucial Sunday showdown against group leaders New Generation FC.

    Meanwhile, Northern United FC kept their semifinal hopes alive with an emphatic 7-1 rout of Gros Islet Veterans. The team established a formidable 4-0 halftime advantage through a brace from Lyndon Constantine complemented by goals from Devonte Herman and Nicholas Lawrence. Although veteran international striker Earl ‘Ball Hog’ Jean converted a penalty for the Vets after the break, Northern United responded with three additional goals from Kenrick Antoine, Thierry Morille, and Samiel Louisien to secure second place in Group B on goal difference.

    The tournament continues on Sunday, February 8th at Francis Baba Lastic Grounds with critical matchups featuring Northern United against Police at 5pm, followed by the highly anticipated clash between GMC United and New Generation FC at 7pm.

  • Hetmyer to join West Indies for World Cup

    Hetmyer to join West Indies for World Cup

    West Indies cricketer Shimron Hetmyer is scheduled to reunite with his national squad in India on Thursday, February 5th, following the resolution of significant visa complications that threatened his participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The 29-year-old Guyanese batsman’s arrival comes just two days before the team’s opening match against Scotland.

    The travel disruption originated from Hetmyer’s use of a newly issued Guyanese passport during the recent South African T20I series. According to renowned international commentator Dr. Joseph Reds Perreira, who spoke exclusively with St. Lucia Times, the batsman traveled to South Africa without carrying his previous passport containing the essential Indian visa. Since Guyanese citizens enjoy visa-free entry to South Africa, the omission went unnoticed until his scheduled departure to India.

    Perreira revealed that high-ranking West Indies Cricket Board officials expected the matter to be resolved imminently, with Hetmyer projected to depart South Africa within hours and reach India by Thursday afternoon Eastern Caribbean time.

    This incident echoes previous travel challenges for the talented left-hander, who ranks fourth in run accumulation (1,345 runs) among current squad members. In 2022, Hetmyer faced exclusion from the T20 World Cup squad after missing two rescheduled flights to Australia due to personal reasons.

    His potential absence would have represented a substantial setback for the Men in Maroon, given his impressive recent form. Hetmyer has compiled 233 runs this year at an average of 46.60, including a remarkable 171 runs across just three innings against South Africa.

    While acknowledging Hetmyer’s personal responsibility, Perreira suggested broader accountability within team management. He questioned whether team manager Rawl Lewis had adequately communicated the specific documentation requirements before players departed their Caribbean homes.

    The visa issue caused Hetmyer to miss Wednesday’s warmup encounter against Afghanistan as well as the official ICC tournament photoshoot, though his anticipated timely arrival preserves West Indies’ batting strength for their crucial opening fixture.