Carib Scope

标签： Saint Lucia

圣卢西亚

  • National Eye Clinic in Saint Lucia resumes surgeries

    National Eye Clinic in Saint Lucia resumes surgeries

    The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs in Saint Lucia has announced the resumption of surgeries at the National Eye Clinic, marking a pivotal step in restoring comprehensive eye care services within the public health sector. This development follows a temporary halt in surgical procedures in March 2023 due to infrastructural challenges. The recommencement of surgeries began on October 8, 2025, with 17 successful pterygium cases already completed and cataract surgeries scheduled to follow shortly.

    A thorough assessment of the previous facility led to a phased enhancement program, resulting in significant upgrades to the clinic. These improvements include infrastructural advancements such as the identification of an alternative space, redesigning and retrofitting the area, and installing additional lighting and air conditioning units. The upgraded facility now features an operating theatre, a preoperative room, a recovery room, three examination rooms, a small pharmacy, and a sterilisation room.

    The clinic is now equipped with cutting-edge technology, including an ophthalmic surgical system for cataract and retina procedures, a phaco-emulsifier, an anesthesia machine, an eye surgical microscope, and laser machines. A highly skilled team, comprising three ophthalmologists, an optometrist, a medical internist, and five nurses, has been trained to operate the new equipment and ensure efficient patient flow and infection control.

    Since its commissioning on December 2, 2024, the clinic has been serving approximately 60 to 70 patients daily. The Ministry of Health has expressed gratitude to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) for their support in ensuring the safety of the operating theatre through environmental testing.

    The National Eye Clinic offers a wide range of services, including diabetic retinopathy screening and treatment, general eye examinations, surgeries for pterygium and cataracts, internal medicine services, and community outreach programs. Eye care services are available Monday to Friday, with surgeries conducted Monday to Thursday and outpatient visits on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

    The public is encouraged to contact the clinic for appointments, and those on the waiting list for surgeries will be notified about their preoperative procedures and surgery dates. The Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high-quality services through the National Eye Clinic.

  • Schools participation a highlight of La Magéwit Festival

    Schools participation a highlight of La Magéwit Festival

    The vibrant community of La Resource in Dennery was awash in royal blue last Friday as the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) celebrated the annual La Magéwit Flower Festival. The event, deeply rooted in Saint Lucian culture, commenced with a solemn church service at St Michael’s Parish Church. Representatives from various La Magéwit groups delivered heartfelt songs and prayers, setting a reverent tone for the festivities. Fr Ignatius Dominic-Savio Cétoute, addressing the congregation, expressed his aspiration for the establishment of Magéwit groups in every community, emphasizing the festival’s unique significance to Saint Lucia. He also lauded educators for fostering student involvement in this cherished tradition. The festival’s origins were traced back to its patron, Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, a 17th-century French nun, adding historical depth to the celebration. The service concluded with a recessional song performed by the Dennery group. Among the attendees were notable dignitaries, including the Ambassador-Designate of Venezuela, Her Excellency Leiff Liubliana Escalona Barrueta, and several Saint Lucian ministers. Post-service, a colorful parade led by La Magéwit groups, including many students, wound through the community before culminating at the La Resource Playing Field. There, societies from across the island showcased their talents, guided by MC George ‘Fish’ Alphonse. Performances, blending traditional dances and songs, paid homage to the La Magéwit flower while playfully rivaling the La Rose festival. Each act concluded with the spirited chant, ‘Viv La Magéwit,’ echoing the community’s pride and joy.

  • Does size really matter?

    Does size really matter?

    In the lead-up to the next General Election in Saint Lucia, the ruling Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the Opposition United Workers Party (UWP) have significantly intensified their campaigns. Although the constitution mandates elections by November 2026, political analysts speculate that Prime Minister Phillip J Pierre may call for an early election before the end of the year. Both parties have been actively engaging with the electorate through various platforms, including town hall meetings and social media events. The UWP’s weekly ‘live’ sessions and the SLP’s candidate launches have become focal points of their strategies. A notable aspect of these campaigns has been the emphasis on crowd size, with both parties accused of using AI-generated images to exaggerate attendance. However, experts like Earl Huntley, a former UN diplomat and political commentator, argue that while large crowds can indicate a party’s ability to mobilize its base, they do not necessarily translate into votes. Huntley cited the 1982 election as an example, where the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) attracted massive crowds but won only one seat. Nancy Charles, a former UWP candidate, highlighted the psychological impact of crowd size, suggesting that undecided voters often gravitate towards parties perceived as having majority support. Despite the political theatrics, voter turnout remains a pressing issue. The last four general elections in Saint Lucia have seen declining participation, with only 54.2% of registered voters casting ballots in 2021. This trend reflects a broader global issue of voter apathy, which undermines the democratic process. As political parties continue their campaigns, there is a growing call for more meaningful engagement to encourage voter registration and participation, ensuring that democracy truly reflects the will of the majority.

  • Remembering ‘Jimz’

    Remembering ‘Jimz’

    The untimely deaths of young athletes are always a profound tragedy, leaving a lasting impact on their families, friends, and communities. The recent passing of Ajani ‘Jimz’ Hippolyte, who drowned in a boating accident at Marisule Beach in early October, has sent shockwaves through Saint Lucia. Hippolyte, a former youth football international, was the second local player to die this year, following Sherman Augustin, who was fatally stabbed during Carnival celebrations in July. These losses are a stark reminder of the fragility of life, especially for those with such promising futures. Hippolyte’s death brings to mind other young athletes like Bradley Felix, Nick Elibox, and Dhanraj ‘Chaz’ Cepal, who tragically lost their lives in car accidents between 2018 and 2019. Felix, a national footballer and track athlete, Elibox, a cricket scholar, and Cepal, a talented batsman, were all vibrant personalities whose potential was cut short. Hippolyte’s journey in football began at a young age, excelling in various schools and clubs, and culminating in his pivotal role with La Clery, where he helped secure multiple titles. Known for his versatility and infectious personality, Hippolyte was on the verge of his senior national debut. His death is a devastating blow to his community, leaving a void that will be hard to fill. The loss of these young talents underscores the need for a safer environment for aspiring athletes, ensuring their dreams are not extinguished prematurely. Their memories, however, will continue to inspire those who knew them.

  • Tech takes the counter: Fast food and retail sectors go self-service

    Tech takes the counter: Fast food and retail sectors go self-service

    The rollout of self-ordering kiosks at KFC outlets across Saint Lucia has elicited diverse responses from customers and management alike. While the technology promises enhanced efficiency and convenience, it has also sparked debates about its implications for workers and accessibility. Clinton Camille, delivery and special projects manager at Real Foods Inc., the franchise holder for KFC Saint Lucia, clarified that the kiosks are not replacing employees but rather ‘repurposing’ them. He explained that staff are being reallocated to ensure a consistent workflow, with increased demand for kitchen personnel due to higher order volumes. The card-only kiosks, developed in collaboration with Republic Bank, streamline order processing, reducing wait times and improving accuracy. However, some customers have raised concerns about the exclusion of cash payments and the challenges faced by those less comfortable with technology. Despite these issues, many patrons have praised the system for its speed and convenience. Similarly, the introduction of self-checkout services at Massy Stores reflects a broader trend toward retail automation. Roxane de Freitas, CEO of Massy Stores Trinidad and Tobago, emphasized the benefits of the new system, including reduced space requirements and enhanced security through surveillance. However, some Saint Lucian shoppers have expressed concerns about potential theft and operational difficulties. As the island continues its digital transformation, the balance between technological advancement, accessibility, and employment remains a critical topic of discussion.

  • Elva on target in Cavalry season finale

    Elva on target in Cavalry season finale

    In a gripping conclusion to the Canada Premier League (CPL) season on October 18, Saint Lucian forward Caniggia Elva delivered a standout performance for Cavalry FC, helping the defending champions secure third place despite their lowest points tally in the league’s six-year history. Elva, named Player of the Match, played a pivotal role in a 2-2 draw against bottom-ranked Vancouver FC at Willoughby Community Park. The match saw Halifax Wanderers and York United both falter in their final games earlier that day. The encounter came alive in the final third, with Vancouver’s Tyler Crawford receiving a red card in the 60th minute. Niko Myroniuk put Cavalry ahead in the 78th minute, but Vancouver equalized shortly after. A well-crafted move in stoppage time saw Elva score his fourth goal of the season, only for Vancouver to level again through a penalty by David Norman Jr. Elva’s contributions, including three shots, five chances created, and two successful dribbles, earned him top honors. Reflecting on the result, Elva emphasized the importance of securing third place and the upcoming playoff clash at Spruce Meadows’ ATCO Field. Cavalry, as the third seed, will face either Halifax or York in the quarterfinals. Forge FC claimed the regular-season title, but Cavalry remains determined to defend their playoff crown, aiming to become the first team to achieve the double. Despite a challenging season with just 42 points, Elva expressed confidence in their playoff potential, stating, ‘We’re a completely different team in the playoffs.’

  • ‘Chef Papi’ stirring traditions into modern Creole cuisine

    ‘Chef Papi’ stirring traditions into modern Creole cuisine

    As Saint Lucia commemorates Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl (Creole Heritage Month), the essence of Creole culture is vividly alive in its cuisine. For Chef Rashid ‘Papi’ Defraitas, a Saint Lucian chef based abroad, the aromas of green seasoning, fried accra, and simmering bouillon are more than just culinary delights—they are a profound connection to his roots, heritage, and purpose. Defraitas’ journey into the culinary world began unexpectedly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Isolated from loved ones, he turned to cooking as a creative outlet, transforming curiosity into a professional passion. Starting with humble experiments in his kitchen, Defraitas faced initial skepticism from family and friends, who were amused by his newfound interest. However, through relentless practice and countless trials, he honed his skills and began sharing his creations online, eventually turning his passion into a career. For Defraitas, Saint Lucian cuisine is more than food—it is identity. He believes in evolving traditional dishes rather than reinventing them, aiming to celebrate classic flavors while adding his unique touch. One of his signature innovations is the reimagined fish cake, or ‘accra,’ paired with a garlic-lime aioli to elevate its presentation while preserving its authentic essence. Defraitas’ cooking philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles of patience, layering, and seasoning, techniques passed down through generations of Saint Lucian cooks. His signature dish, pig foot souse, exemplifies this approach, blending traditional ingredients with fresh herbs and vibrant vegetables to create a dish that is both familiar and refreshingly new. As Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl continues, Defraitas’ story embodies the spirit of the season, showcasing how heritage, heart, and purpose can come together to create culinary masterpieces that honor and innovate Saint Lucian culture.

  • Lara commends West Indies’ resilience despite series loss

    Lara commends West Indies’ resilience despite series loss

    Despite another series loss, this time to India, the West Indies men’s cricket team demonstrated a commendable fighting spirit that earned praise from legendary cricketer Brian Lara. The second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi concluded with a sweep for India, but not before the West Indies showcased moments of grit and determination, particularly in their final innings. Lara, previously critical of the team’s perceived lack of commitment, acknowledged their resilience and called for greater involvement of cricket legends in the team’s development. The series began with a crushing innings defeat in the first Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, leaving little optimism for the Windies. However, the second Test revealed promising signs, including a maiden century by opener John Campbell, who became the first West Indies opener in over two decades to score a Test hundred on Indian soil. Campbell’s 115-run innings, alongside Shai Hope’s century, highlighted the team’s potential. The lower order also showed notable resistance, with contributions from Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales, and Anderson Philip. Fans on social media lauded the team’s improved performance and fighting spirit. Lara, who traveled to India with Sir Vivian Richards and Sir Richie Richardson to seek sponsorship for regional cricket development, emphasized the importance of mentorship and guidance for the players. He suggested that Cricket West Indies should integrate legends into the team’s environment to inspire and support the players. Team captain Roston Chase expressed hope that the series would serve as a stepping stone for future Test matches. While the West Indies continue their journey to reclaim their former glory, the second Test offered a glimmer of hope for their fans.

  • Olympian ‘Zeph’ Joseph launches game-changing cross country event

    Olympian ‘Zeph’ Joseph launches game-changing cross country event

    For over three decades, Zepherinus Knockay Joseph, a native of Mon Repos, Saint Lucia, has been a stalwart in the world of distance running. Now, at 50, Joseph is set to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious athletic career, this time as a pioneer in youth sports development. The recent announcement of the Zepherinus Joseph Cross-Country Invitational marks a significant milestone in his journey, aiming to inspire the next generation of athletes in Saint Lucia.

  • Creole rhythms and global dreams: Boo, Sly call for cultural sound revolution

    Creole rhythms and global dreams: Boo, Sly call for cultural sound revolution

    The celebration of Creole Month in Saint Lucia is deeply intertwined with its vibrant music scene. The harmonious blend of melodious voices, rhythmic drums, and resonant stringed instruments creates an atmosphere that is distinctly Saint Lucian, unparalleled anywhere else in the world. However, the question arises: should these unique sounds be confined to just one day or month of celebration? Is there potential to expand the influence of Creole music beyond the annual Jounen Kwéyòl festivities? These were the central questions posed to two renowned music practitioners, Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson and Sly, during a recent interview with St. Lucia Times. Hinkson, a leading jazz musician in Saint Lucia, advocates for integrating Kwéyòl sounds into more sophisticated and globally appealing formats. He has personally embraced this approach by infusing Creole rhythms and melodies into his jazz compositions, resulting in a sound that is both unique and distinctly Saint Lucian. Hinkson emphasized the importance of maintaining this cultural identity, stating, ‘It’s not just important in today’s age, it’s always been important because it’s our identity. It is what makes us unique, is what is indigenous to us, it is what makes us who we are and for that reason, I believe we must never disconnect from it.’ He further highlighted the need for deliberate efforts to incorporate indigenous rhythms into contemporary music, suggesting that this could elevate Saint Lucian music to international acclaim, much like Reggae has for Jamaica or Bouyon for Dominica. Hinkson also pointed out that Saint Lucian rhythms are already influencing other cultures, citing the hit soca single ‘The Greatest Bend Over’ by Yung Bredda as an example. Sly, another prominent musician, underscored the profound impact of Creole musical instruments on Saint Lucian culture, particularly the tambo, which he described as ‘second to none.’ He called for greater creativity in integrating traditional instruments like the banjo into modern music, suggesting that this could bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary sounds. As Saint Lucia continues to export its culture on the global stage, music remains a dynamic and essential part of its national identity, transcending the island’s 238 square miles and resonating with audiences worldwide.