Making Saint Lucia a Better Place to Live, Work and Invest! by Government of Saint Lucia

Issue 42 | 08 Feb, 2020

People and Community

Investment and Trade

Making Saint Lucia a Better Place to Live, Work and Invest! Enterprise Development

Moving on Up!

Great Export Successes Worldwide

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Choiseul Restaurant

Making a difference in Choiseul/Saltibus

11 13

Rising to the Challenges!

Notes from the PS

Consumer Affairs Department

06-07 Great Export Successes

Worldwide Through Export Saint Lucia

08-09 Amendment to the Fiscal Incentives Act

Invest Saint Lucia

Groundbreaking for Choiseul Restaurant

Saint Lucia /Taiwan Partnership Trade Show

Making a difference in Choiseul/Saltibus

News Bites

aint Lucia over the past few years has received international acclaim from a number of publications as one of the “Best Destinations” in the Caribbean. The island has received numerous accolades and awards for tourism, particularly as a honeymoon and weddings destination too. Saint Lucia has also made strides in becoming more conducive for investments, both local and foreign, and was singled out by the American and European investors as one of the countries to invest in, in the next five to ten years. The recipient of the 2018 European Business Magazine award for “Best Caribbean Island to Invest” Saint Lucia was also the awardee of the 2018 AIM award for Best Investment in the Latin America and Caribbean region. Through the efforts of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs the Government of Saint Lucia has been working assiduously to ensure that the climate for investment, continue to be favourable and amenable. To achieve this the Ministry’s exertions are strengthened by agencies such as Export Saint Lucia, The Small Enterprise Development Unit, Invest Saint Lucia, The Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards, the Saint Lucia Air and Seaports Authority and the Customs Department. As one of the countries outside the US, where companies will most likely locate within the next five years, the European Business Magazine pointed out that; “Saint Lucia has a burgeoning middle class, political and economic stability, an industrious, well-educated workforce, and quality infrastructure.” With these competitive advantages, the Government continues to work towards enhancing the investor experience by putting in place additional reforms and incentives to improve the business environment. In this issue of “Our Saint Lucia” we take a closer look at some of these efforts and ongoing reforms to encourage the growth of small businesses and to stimulate and attract investments in three key sectors, namely tourism; manufacturing; and infrastructure and their respective sub-sectors such as eco-tourism, smart manufacturing and Business Process Outsourcing. Editor, Toni Nicholas

Rising to the Challenges!

he Hon. Bradley Felix Minister for

Commerce, Industry, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs. He is also the Parliamentary Representative for Choiseul/Saltibus. Felix describes his portfolio as “very diverse.” “From the Commerce side of it we liaise with the business sector, working closely with the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Hon. Bradley Felix says. “We have of course the interweaving departments; the Department of Consumer Affairs, the Bureau of Standards, Invest Saint Lucia, Export Saint Lucia and the Small Enterprise Development Unit,” he added. “In addition the Government’s warehouse; responsible for the purchase of sugar, flour and rice is also within my purview,” he said. The Ministry also works closely with agencies such as the Saint Lucia Manufacturing Association and the Small Business Association. Over the last few years the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs has reviewed the Fiscal Incentives Act with recent amendments. “This has been one of the most significant developments for us in recent times,” Felix says. “I hear quite a lot of conversations focusing on young people, but with these amendments we have moved past just the talking, to implementing an act that is all encompassing, providing incentives which young persons can take advantage of. But not just young persons, entrepreneurs and potential business owners on the whole,” he went on to say. The amendments gives every interested Saint Lucian the opportunity to enhance their business by providing concessions on imports, to people involved in IT, Health and Wellness, the entertainment industry and other areas. “Through the Small Business Development Center, we help potential business owners by pointing them in the right direction, assisting with the processes involved in setting up the

business and offering training as well,” Hon. Bradley Felix says. “For the larger entities and manufacturers, we have recognized that many of them can no longer receive fiscal incentives, so in the amendments we have also put in a clause, that if they are involved in certain expansions up to a particular amount, they will be eligible for additional tax breaks,” he went on to say. The introduction of Article 164 earlier this year, is another instrument the Minister says will redound to the benefit of Saint Lucia. Article 164 seeks to encourage and facilitate the production of a limited number of products within the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) of CARICOM. (LDCs refers to the OECS Countries and Belize). “We believe that Article 164 will help to ensure that small and medium industries can survive, grow and expand under this sort of protection regime, as they work on building capacity so that when the protection is lifted, they will be in a better place of strength,” Hon. Bradley Felix says. The Minister is also pleased with the work being done by Export Saint Lucia in securing a number of markets for nontraditional export products including sea moss, mangos and breadfruit among other things. “The challenge we have is that of transportation between the islands and I think the time has come for us to look seriously at making Saint Lucia a CARICOM port. In that way charges levied at our ports could be waived for ships doing business for our small exporters. This I believe will improve regional trade,” Felix said.

Constituency of Choiseul/Saltibus The constituency of Choiseul/Saltibus is quite vast even though the population is just over 6,000 (Castries, 65,000, Gros Islet 25,000 app). Hon. Bradley Felix says despite the many challenges over the years he has been able to achieve quite a lot in the constituency which he also calls home.

World Trade Organization Director General Roberto Azevêdo meets with Hon. Bradley Felix at the WTO.

“We have done quite a bit in various areas. Take for example in education; we spent just over EC$1Million in school upgrades last year alone. We were also able to open the new blocks at the Choiseul Secondary School under the DVRP. This is now one of the model schools here in Saint Lucia focusing on not just academics, but Theatre arts, music and so on,” Felix says. He went on; “we have done extensive work on the once deplorable road network in Choiseul, we have three health centers all being upgraded, we are in discussion with the Japanese for improvements to the fish landing facility and we have three community center projects that should be on their way pretty soon.” Choiseul is also expected to see the commencement of one of the biggest housing development projects. Through Invest Saint Lucia, 120 lots in La Fargue as well as lots in Piaye will soon be unveiled. Lights were recently erected on the La Fargue playing field to facilitate night time activities and discussions are ongoing with stakeholders to restore the Choiseul Craft center back to its glory days. The Choiseul Parliamentary representative also reflected on the road and irrigation works in Delcer, and the construction of a fine dining restaurant also in Delcer, which will employ sixty persons during construction and several others when open. Hon. Bradley Felix thanks the people of the Choiseul community for their support. He praises the many young persons who are carrying on the talent, rich cultural diversity and legacy excelling in varied fields while embodying a humble spirit that is at the heart of Choiseul.

Notes from the PS

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs is Sophia Henry. “Our Saint Lucia” spoke with the PS on some of the initiatives and interventions of her Ministry.

Article 164

“

This is a regime that had been approved by CARICOM. As a signatory to CARICOM, Saint Lucia was obligated to implement Article 164 which required the signatures of two MDCs (More Developed Countries) and all of the LDCs or Less Developed Countries (including Saint Lucia), for implementation,” PS Henry explains. Article 164 offers protection for 13 products along 39 tariff lines. These include pasta, curry (and other spices), wheat or meslin flour, waters, beer, stout, animal feed, hydrogen, rare gases and other non-metals, paints and varnishes, candles and machinery. Under article 164, duty on products from the LDCs would be at 0%, while imports from MDCs would range between 35%70% (depending on the product) and between 50%-100% from third states. “The aim of Article 164 is to offer some protection for products from LDCs which include Saint Lucia, while we assist these businesses further with their growth. It also serves as a way of encouraging persons to buy local and to increase the market share for these products,” the PS says. Article 164 came into effect on January 1, 2020

Assistance and Support Mechanisms Long before the implementation of Article 164, the Ministry of Commerce has used various mechanisms to not only facilitate local business but to assist in their development and growth as well. The Small Enterprise Development Unit (SEDU) is the department in the Ministry of Commerce, leading this charge. “This is a department where we have seen some amazing success stories over the years,” PS Sophia Henry says. “Our doors are open to anyone with a business idea or pre-venture. They can come to the Ministry and we do not just

explain the processes to them but offer assistance every step of the way,” she went on to say. “When they come in they are assigned to a development officer and assisted with; the development of the business idea, registration of the business at a subsidized cost, the incorporation of the business, leases, contracts and advice on opening a bank account,” Ms. Henry says. Further, clients are also offered training in various areas pertaining to business and become eligible for incentives and duty free concessions. “So we really want to keep spreading the word that for anyone interested in starting a small business the Ministry of Commerce and the Small Enterprise Development Unit, should be the first stop.”

Trade Facilitation “This a very broad subject for us and the Ministry’s primary role where Trade Facilitation is concerned, is to coordinate the activity, to monitor and ensure implementation,” PS Sophia Henry says. Further, “trade Facilitation also involves customs, SLASPA, Bureau of Standards, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Health, Chamber of Commerce, shipping agencies and brokers.” Cabinet has approved a National Trade Facilitation Committee as part of a World Trade Organization trade facilitation agreement signed in 2017. “The idea is to foster greater efficiency in trade and to reduce the number of procedures, paper work, documents and costs when it comes to trade,” we were told. This is where the Port Community Single Window comes in! What is it? According to PS Sophia Henry; “This is a medium or mechanism that will allow for one point of entry, one single entry to facilitate the trade process. In

Ms. Sophia Henry – PS Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs

essence one would not have to go from one agency to another, but by logging in online all the agencies would be connected, making the trade process seamless.” “It has been ten years now since manufacturers and the chamber of commerce have been clamouring for this and finally we are seeing some light, with funding recently approved to push the process forward,” Henry says.

Consumer Protection Act This is another instrument, a long time coming. “While the Consumer Protection Act was passed in 2016 there was no date given for its implementation, given that there were concerns raised by the Saint Lucia Bar Association and the Chamber of Commerce,” PS Sophia Henry informed us. “Notwithstanding, in broad terms the act was seen as beneficial. And so during last year’s budget Hon. Bradley Felix gave his word that he would see to it that the necessary amendments to the Act were made, and enacted by this year, and since then we have had all of the necessary consultations and presentations to Cabinet” she added. “Since then we have had all of the necessary consultations, followed by a presentation to Cabinet. It is hoped that the Consumer Protection Act will take effect on World Consumer Rights Day, March 15, 2020,

Consumer Affairs Department

wing to the liberalization of product markets, the increasing complexity of consumer complaints and the recognition that Price Control offered limited protection to consumers, there was need to create an institution with a much broader scope; a department that would offer consumers in Saint Lucia greater protection in the marketplace. Therefore in September of 1997, the Price Control Department was transformed and renamed the Consumer Affairs Department (CAD). The department now has the responsibility for the protection of consumer rights thus ensuring that the health, safety and economic welfare of consumers are given due attention. Consumer Protection guidelines were adopted by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 39/248 of April 9, 1985, which was later expanded in 1999. These guidelines provide a framework for member Governments to set their own priorities for the protection of consumers in accordance with their respective economic, social and environmental circumstances and the needs of their population. In addition to these guidelines, Chapter Eight (8) of the revised CARICOM Treaty which seeks to establish the (CSME) provides the legal framework for member states to elaborate and develop appropriate measures and programmes to protect consumers.

March 15th, 2020 equilibrium in the power between consumers and suppliers.

Services The scope of the department is to: • • •

•

Develop and implement appropriate education programmes and information policies. Create and enact appropriate consumer protection legislation, regulations and policies. Create avenues for redress and access to justice, in cases where fair-trading and the rights of consumers are violated. Collaborate with non-governmental organizations and government institutions in promoting consumer interests and safeguarding consumer rights. Procurement of adequate supplies of basic commodities and establishment of appropriate distribution channels.

•

• •

Key Responsibilities In furthering its objectives, the department’s key responsibilities are to: •

These frameworks and agreement are the genesis for the institutionalizing of consumer affairs and consumer protection. Therefore, consumers can seek redress through CAD from business which have not acted in accordance with consumer rights. It is hoped that though the passage of time and as consumer affairs becomes more prevalent in our community that consumers will become greater empowered and this empowerment will bring about

Consumer Affairs Department located on the corner of Micoud and Coral Streets in Castries.

• • •

Assist in developing an informed, responsible and discerning consuming public Monitor the legislative environment to ensure effective safeguard of consumer rights Create a climate for understanding the role of Government in protecting consumer interests Promote and ensure compliance with quality standards for consumer goods and services

•

Provide the enabling environment and institutional support that would create avenues for consumer education and redress Adopt code of ethics, which relate to consumer practices Monitor the distribution and prices of controlled items to ensure compliance with existing legislation Ensure that adequate supplies of good quality basic commodities are available consistently and that the prices of these commodities remain at an affordable level Investigate consumer complaints and/or consumer organizations with respect to violations of established fair trading practices Collect, collate and disseminate information on matters affecting the interests of consumers

Great Export Successes Worldwide Through Export Saint Lucia T

he Government of Saint Lucia through Export Saint Lucia continued in 2019 to support the development of the island’s Industries. CEO of Export Saint Lucia Ms. Sunita Daniel reported that the Agency sought to develop these businesses through innovation and creativity, thereby positively impacting their bottom line and ability to create and sustain employment. In 2019, Export Saint Lucia took on a number of ambitious challenges, one of them being the export of sundried Saint Lucian Seamoss to the U.K. and U.S. markets, a first for the island, resulting in the following: • • • •

Increase in seamoss exports revenue of $500,000; Increased and sustained exports of sun-dried seamoss; A rejuvenated zeal of seamoss farmers to increase production; Direct impact on job creation on the east coast of Praslin, Micoud, and Eau Piquant. Over 100 new farmers have gone into seamoss cultivation.

Export Saint Lucia has also been assisting traditional farmers with sourcing new markets to export fresh agricultural

CEO of Export Saint Lucia Ms. Sunita Daniel

produce. Mangal Trading, Canelles Farms, Perineau’s Exports and other suppliers of agricultural produce have thus far been direct beneficiaries and are making much headway into new markets. Other significant interventions include: •

•

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Black Bay Farmers’ Cooperative to strengthen the capacity of farmers to exploit new markets; Spearheading the branding of Saint Lucia Bananas to create an internationally known brand, leading to the increase of banana exports; Implementation of the “Bee City” project, with the ultimate goal of exporting natural honey.

In 2019, Export Saint Lucia introduced contractors and furniture manufacturers to Dominica to provide professional services in the rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Maria. Dominica also welcomed one of our health and wellness clients, Frances’ Rub during the later part of 2019. Much attention was paid to the Creative Sector. For fashion designers, the Agency helped some to become export-ready, while helping others to capitalize on

opportunities in international markets. For music, the Agency helped with the growth of the popular Dennery Segment genre and hosted an Image and Marketing Workshop to boost participants’ profiles and visibility. The facilitator, International Stephen, secured performances for some Saint Lucian artists at the 2019 Miami Carnival. For fine artists and artisans, the Agency successfully hosted the ‘Saint Lucia Art Showcase.’ Finally, recognizing that exporters often struggled with understanding various facets of Intellectual Property, a two-day Intellectual Property workshop with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) was hosted, for which participants repeatedly expressed their gratitude and appreciation. Agricultural exporter Fevrier Consulting and Trading, has been seeking prospective buyers in the St. Kitts market. Through the intervention of Export Saint Lucia, the company was introduced to this market in 2019. Since then, the exporter had been working feverishly to secure the first shipment of produce. Mr. Simon Henry who is the Export Coordinator at Fevrier Consulting and Trading said, despite the fact that this market is a new

one for the company, he believes that their experience gives them a competitive advantage. During the second week of January 2020, Fevrier Consulting and Trading shipped its first 20-foot container of mixed agricultural produce to St. Kitts. The buyer has since expressed extreme satisfaction, and subsequent 20-foot containers have been shipped to St. Kitts every week. Mr. Henry expressed that he is pleased that the collaboration with Export Saint Lucia yielded such success and he is looking forward to furthering exploits in the Caribbean market, as well as further solidifying the relationship with Export Saint Lucia. He encourages local farmers to diversify their fresh agricultural produce as the demand continues to grow. CEO of Export Saint Lucia Ms. Sunita Daniel said that assisting Fevrier Consulting and Trading to penetrate this new market is just another step in ensuring that our local farmers find markets for their produce. Export Saint Lucia pledges to continue supporting Fevrier Consulting and Trading and the rest of our exporters.

Export Saint Lucia at 4th EU Cariforum

Minister Felix at Expo Caraibe in Cuba US Mission

Branding Saint Lucia’s seamoss

Meeting with exporters

Export Saint Lucia is the Saint Lucian Government’s National Trade Export and Promotion Agency and is the lead agency mandated to spearhead the island’s National Export Development Effort. The overall objective is to increase the aggregate volume and value of exports from Saint Lucia. Export Saint Lucia works to promote and expand business in export markets around the world. We aspire to increase local exports, to assist local businesses to improve profitability and long-term sustainability, thus making a direct and valuable contribution to the Saint Lucian economy. In 2020, the Agency is looking forward to building on the successes of the past year. We are thankful for our clients and support of the general public, and look forward to serving you in 2020 as we pursue economic growth and improvement of the standard of living for our people!

4th EU Cariforum YIPO Meeting

MOU with Blackbay Farmers

Singer Michael Robinson at workshop featuring International Stephen

Nila Mangal at workshop

Frances Rub Owner

Amendment to the Fiscal Incentives Act The Fiscal Incentives Act is the primary legislation governing the award of incentives to manufacturing, service or processing industries. Fiscal incentives were introduced to facilitate local and foreign investment in the productive sector of the

economy. In its current format, the Act offers a range of incentives to manufacturing entities including tax holidays up to a maximum of fifteen (15) years; waiver of import duties and consumption tax on imported plant machinery and equipment; and a waiver of import duties and consumption tax on imported raw materials and packaging.

Fiscal Incentives for a Wider Range of Local Businesses Amendment to the Fiscal Incentives Act Cap 15.16

The Ministry of Commerce, International Trade, Investment, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs wishes to inform the public of the recent amendment of the Fiscal Incentives Act Cap. 15.16 to include four (4) sub-sectors of the services industry; namely - Creative Industry, Professional Services, Spa and Wellness and ICT.

The Approved Services under the sub-sectors are as follows:

1) Creative Industries • • • •

Entertainment Motion picture and video tape production and distribution services Motion picture projection service Sporting and other recreational services

2) Professional Services • • • • • • • • •

Accounting services Management Consulting services Photographic services Architectural services Engineering services Integrated Engineering services Printing, publishing Veterinary services Medical and Dental

3) Spa and Wellness • • •

Beauty and Spa Physiotherapists and services provided by midwives and para medical personnel Medical laboratories

4) ICT • •

Telecommunication services Online information or data processing including transaction processing

The Approved Services qualify for exemption from Customs Duties and Excise Tax on plant, equipment, machinery, spare parts, raw materials or components. The Act was also amended to allow manufacturing and processing industries that have exhausted the previous limit of fifteen (15) years to benefit from additional income tax exemption for a period not exceeding five (5) years, based on the level of investment as follows:

Investment

Exemption

New Investment from EC$1 Million up to EC$5 Million

50% Corporate Tax

New Investment in excess of EC$5 Million.”.

75% Corporate Tax

Any manufacturer located in Saint Lucia can qualify for fiscal incentives if the enterprise manufactures an approved product (i.e. a product declared by order of Cabinet for manufacture by an approved enterprise). In light of a rapidly evolving global landscape for trade, commerce and development, the Government of Saint Lucia is being proactive in creating and sustaining conditions under which our private sector can continue to grow and compete on the international stage. The Ministry encourages qualifying Companies registered in Saint Lucia, to take advantage of the provisions of the Act to enhance their productivity, efficiency and competitiveness. For further information and guidance, kindly contact the Commerce and Industry Unit at 468-4214 or 468-4210.

Invest Saint Lucia

Invest Saint Lucia, the official Investment Promotion Agency of the Government of Saint Lucia, is responsible for stimulating, facilitating and promoting inward investment opportunities for both foreign and local investors.

Hon. Bradley Felix with Invest Saint Lucia and intelbpo team

Home of soon to be open Caribbean Quality Meats

Invest Saint Lucia’s focus therefore is to: • • • •

Build and promote Saint Lucia’s image as a preferred location for investors; Actively seek out and generate new investments in strategic sectors with high value-added and employment generating potential; Facilitate domestic and foreign direct investment by functioning as a true one stop shop for investors; and Identify major issues and measures geared towards assisting the Government in the ongoing development of a National Investment Policy.

Invest Saint Lucia and itelbpo Smart Solutions Sign MOU

telbpo Smart Solutions was founded in 2012 in Jamaica and is now a global business, and the region’s largest homegrown business process outsourcer. The company runs eight facilities in four countries namely Jamaica, The Bahamas, Mexico and the USA. On Wednesday, January 29, 2020 itelbpo Founder and Chairman, Mr Yoni Epstein signed an MOU with Invest Saint Lucia (ISL) to begin operations in what would be the fifth territory for the company. ISL CEO Roderick Cherry said, “ISL is currently retrofitting a 20,000 sq. ft. factory shell in the Hewanorra Free Zone in preparation for itelbpo’s opening in April 2020”. “This new state-of-the-art BPO facility will house initially 150 employees in the global services sector with aggressive growth plans. Invest Saint Lucia has a critical role to play in reducing the 20% unemployment rate in our country, particularly among young men and women by half within three years,” Cherry said. During the signing Yoni Epstein implied that Saint Lucia might be one of his favourites “given the experience that I’ve had in the past and the expectations that have been set, knowing what Saint Lucians are equipped with to provide services to our clients”.

“Saint Lucia may not have been in my purview originally, but the Invest Saint Lucia team made it possible for us,” said Epstein, “We live by what is called our four Y’s which is quality, integrity, reliability and family. You have a big heart, a big family…and that is a big part of our organization”. Minister for Commerce, International Trade, Investment, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs, Honourable Bradly Felix also welcomed itelbpo specifically to Vieux Fort which he believes will be the “mecca for bpo/kpo investment”. Minister Felix said that the location is well-suited to take advantage of this industry.

Invest Saint Lucia facilitates local investments One of the projects is Caribbean Quality Meats Ltd, a poultry processing plant in Dennery that is soon to open its doors. Chief Executive Officer of Invest Saint Lucia, Roderick Cherry, said ISL is honored to have helped facilitate the company in coming to fruition. According to the CEO the EC$4.3 million investment is welcomed, especially in a time where there is a need for local, high-quality and healthy protein to meet expanding

nutritional demands. Local production also enables stricter standards to safeguard the population against the negative impacts of chemicals and hormones used in imported meats. Invest Saint Lucia retrofitted an old factory shell in Dennery to the tune of EC$1.4 million, and has established a longterm lease agreement with Caribbean Quality Meats Ltd allowing the entity to recuperate a modest profit. The company will in the initial stages hire some 30 individuals. ISL is also embarking on two residential developments —one in Bois Jolie, Dennery and the other in Beauchamp, Micoud is also underway. ISL’s mandate is not limited to attracting foreign direct investment but also entails making home ownership a reality for all Saint Lucians. The Bois Jolie development is located on approximately 8.43 acres of gently sloping land and has been subdivided into 25 single unit lots ranging from 3800 to 8400 square feet. The Beauchamp development will be a large mixed use subdivision located on approximately 20 acres of flat land. It will comprise 59 lots, 4 multi-family lots, five commercial lots, 2 institutional lots and 48 single family lots ranging from 5000 to 26,000 square feet. Caribbean Quality Meats

Groundbreaking for Choiseul Restaurant O

n Friday January 31, 2020 an official ceremony was held in Delcer, Choiseul as work on a new fine dining restaurant gets underway. The restaurant, Soley Kouche will be embraced by three villas also under construction. In attendance were the directors of the project, who are also the directors and owners of Tet Rouge Resort in Choiseul. Minister of Commerce, Industry, Investment, Enterprise Development, and Consumer Affairs Hon. Bradley Felix was in attendance along with the CEO of Invest Saint Lucia Roderick Cherry, the Chairman Pinkley Francis and other officials. Paul Hugo, director of Soley Kouche Restaurant said during his address that all of the talent needed for construction had been sourced from the community as was the case with the Tet Rouge Project. “We went to La Pointe, Industry, Fond Jen Libre, Morne La Croix, Raveneau and Morne Sion, where we found all the skills and the contractor, all the talents that we needed right here. So our carpenters, masons, plumbers, electricians, labourers are all from around here,” Hugo said. He went on to praise the workers describing them as “skilled and very talented.”

Rendering of what the restaurant will look like when completed

The idea for the restaurant according to Paul Hugo, was borne out of a need to offer their guests an alternative to the small restaurant at Tet Rouge. However, Soley Kouche would be open to the public and visitors alike. In his address Hon. Bradley Felix who is also the parliamentary representative for Choiseul/Saltibus expressed to the directors; “you have gotten a gem here and I thank you for the confidence you have displayed by putting your money behind what you are doing here today.” He went on to applaud the owners for accessing workers from the community during the construction phase, noting that when open the restaurant will also be seeking employees from Choiseul. “There is something you have that cannot be replaced, the people of this community. Choiseul is known for the wonderful people we have, not just how we approach people but how we approach our work, our work ethics,” Hon. Bradley Felix said. He pointed out that the restaurant would have one of the most breathtaking views of Gros Piton.

Official sod turning A breath taking view of Gros Piton from the site of the restaurant

Invited guests at sod turning ceremony

Felix called on the community to embrace the project and to take advantage of the opportunities; particular what would be available to crafters, farmers and fisher folk. “We have on record over 1. 5 billion dollars to be invested in Saint Lucia over the next two years,” Hon. Bradley Felix said, adding that he was happy that Choiseul was part of some of the investments.

Saint Lucia /Taiwan Partnership Trade Show

Hon Bradley Felix with Choiseul crafters

or the past 12 years Saint Lucia has played host to the Saint Lucia/Taiwan Partnership Trade Show. This activity is organized by the Embassy of Taiwan here in Saint Lucia and the Taiwan mission in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Investment, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs. Following another successful event in November of 2019, Hon. Bradley Felix, Minister for Commerce, Industry, Investment, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs, noted that the trade show has resulted in the growth and expansion of a number of businesses in Saint Lucia particularly small and medium size enterprises. The Minister also indicated that the trade show has been a rewarding platform for new ventures, that have benefitted from the exposure and networking opportunities the event provides.

Exotic Jewellery High end Chocolate from Micoud

Christy bags and more from Christy Creations

last year’s trade event saw participation from fortyfive Saint Lucian businesses and eight companies from Taiwan in sectors such as art and craft, condiments, food and beverage and fashion. The four day event was also very well attended. According to Minister Felix; “the purpose of the trade show was to allow the showcasing of new and upcoming products and services that are now available on the local market”. “We continue to see the growth and expansion of businesses as a result of their participation in the trade show. It also allows for business relations to be established between manufacturers and distributors for the provision of locally made goods and the supply of services,” Hon. Bradley Felix says.

One of The Taiwanese booths

The activity according to the Minister saw more interest and participation of persons from the south of the island last year. This he says is expected to grow even further with the launch of the Southern Business Association. ACR fruit infused wines from Laborie

Making a difference in Choiseul/Saltibus

Industry/Delcer roads being rehabilitated

Caffeire Bridge under repair

ver the last three years the Constituency of Choiseul has seen major improvements to the infrastructure there. These have included school upgrades as well as the completion of the new blocks at the Choiseul Secondary School. The community is also experiencing ongoing road works, bridge and footpath maintenance as well as rehabilitation work on health-centers. With the lighting of the La Fargue playing field a number of other playing fields are down for upgrades throughout the community. Choiseul is also expected to see improvements to the fish landing and craft market facility soon as well as major investments in the areas of housing and tourism which is expected to bring employment to residents and help improve their overall livelihood.

Bridge gets new safety rails

The upgraded Choiseul Secondary School

Donation of book shelves to the Piaye school

Saltibus drainage works ahead of road construction project

Supporting sports in the community

News Bites

done it yet again, this time capturing the title of Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination 2020, at the 27th Annual World Travel Awards (WTA) that took place on January 20, 2020 in Nassau, Bahamas. Saint Lucia has won this award a record 11 times, with the most recent honor coming in 2019.

Alphonso Horne and The Gotham Kings, Ruben Fox’s London Brass featuring Theon Cross and Mark Kavuma and Maher Beauroy presents WASHA! More names are expected to be added to the lineup and announced soon.

Government Negotiates Increased Quota for Banana Exports

Honourable Sarah Flood-Beaubrun Meets with Secretary of State

Minister with responsibility for External Affairs, Honourable Sarah FloodBeaubrun, has reported that the meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, was a welcome opportunity to engage with the administration on a series of initiatives important to the Government and People of Saint Lucia. At the January 22, 2020 meeting which she attended along with other invited foreign ministers, the Secretary commented that his trip to the region was overdue, and that the United States continues to be committed to initiatives that seek to strengthen ties on issues such as security and development. As it relates to the Organization of American States (OAS), the Secretary indicated a known U.S. position; that the U.S. would like to see the incumbent Secretary General, Luis Almagro, serve a second term at the helm of the organization. Minister Flood-Beaubrun focused some of her remarks on the need for more programing in community development, drawing reference to USAID’s Community Family and Youth Resilience Program currently underway in Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts & Nevis and Guyana.

SAINT LUCIA DOES IT AGAIN: CAPTURING NUMEROUS ACCOLADES AT WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS Fresh off the heels of the announcement naming Saint Lucia as the World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination 2019, the inspirational Caribbean Island has

The red-carpet World Travel Awards Gala Ceremony also bestowed honors on several distinguished industry partners. Marigot Bay Resort Spa & Marina has been named Saint Lucia’s Leading Beach Resort 2020, Boucan by Hotel Chocolat – Saint Lucia’s Leading Hotel 2020 and Hertz Car Rental - Saint Lucia’s Leading Car Rental Company 2020. Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa and Beach Resort was named in two categories, namely Saint Lucia’s Leading resort 2020 and Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort 2020.

Legendary Patti Labelle for Saint Lucia Jazz

The festival, to be held in Saint Lucia on Thursday, May 7 through Saturday, May 9, 2020, will feature the finest names in modern jazz performing in venues throughout Saint Lucia’s beautiful Caribbean landscape including The Ramp and Gros Islet Park. To date, the diverse lineup includes artists spanning the Caribbean, the U.K., and the U.S. including Patti LaBelle, Chick Corea’s Vigilette with Carlitos Del Puerto, Marcus Gilmore and special guest, Roy Hargrove Celebration with Willie Jones III feat. Renée Neufville and special guests,

The Government of Saint Lucia has successfully negotiated with WINFRESH and the National Free Trade Organization (NFTO) to increase the number of bananas exported from Saint Lucia to Europe from 6,500 boxes weekly to 15,000 boxes weekly. The first phase will run from January 2020- April 2020. According to a Government statement Saint Lucia has not been able to hit the 15,000 boxes quota for the first 3 shipments and therefore is encouraging more banana farmers to gain certification from the NFTO which will then allow them to qualify for exporting their produce.

Saint Lucia to Get Vehicle Pound Motorist in Saint Lucia have been put on notice that their vehicles will soon be towed away and a fine attached for parking illegally or driving without the required documents. A new “pound” facility is expected to be in operation by the end of February 2020 and will be located at Union. Transport Minister Hon. Guy Joseph has lamented that citizens do not seem to have any regard for traffic laws while expressing alarm at the number of traffic accidents in Saint Lucia. “As I speak to you, the fencing is going up for the vehicle pound. I expect some time in February – by the time we implement our parking metres in Castries, the vehicle pound will be ready,” Joseph disclosed. He said with the vehicle pound in place, the police will have a secure place to tow away vehicles that are found in violation of the laws.

Guy Joseph www.facebook.com/guyjoseph January 31 We have broken ground for the construction of WASCO’s new Headquarters in Vieux Fort

Dr. Gale T C Rigobert www.facebook.com/galerigobert758 January 27 Renovations in order for Piaye Combined School A project which seeks to improve the environment for children and teachers at the Piaye Combined School has taken flight.

Ezechiel Joseph www.facebook.com/ezechieljoseph758 January 29, 2020 Safety at Sea training workshop A week-long session for the training of trainers in “Safety of Fishers’ at Sea” took place at the Belle Jou Hotel, last week. The session’s aim was to teach and bring awareness to new methods implemented for the safety of fishermen.

Fortuna Belrose www.facebook.com/fortunabelrose758 January 26 Wishing these young ladies the very best as they prepare to compete in the 2020 Ms. Independence pageant.

Allen Chastanet

Herod Stanislas

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www.facebook.com/herodstanislas

Edmund Estephane

Dominic Fedee

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www.facebook.com/dominicfedee

Hermangill Francis

Sarah Flood Beaubrun

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www.facebook.com/sarahfloodbeaubrun758

Bradly Felix

Lenard “Spider” Montoute www.facebook.com/lenardspidermontoute

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Mary Isaac www.facebook.com/maryisaacslu

Stephenson King www.facebook.com/stephensonking