The Government of Saint Lucia needs to be applauded for how the COVID-19 crisis has been managed so far. Putting all politics aside, the members of Government along with the members of the Opposition, the Medical team and our security personnel have done well to manage and protect our country from this pandemic which has brought “big” countries to their knees. Our health professionals and security personnel have set an extraordinary example of commitment, professionalism, and solidarity for all of us to emulate.
We need to thank God for giving us such leaders in a time like this to be proactive in managing the situation. Things could have been worse, but God worked through our leaders, and they have proven that they had an upper hand of what was happening. Having said that, I think we, the citizenry, also need commendation for how far we have carried ourselves. It has not been easy, but through it all, we have been able to discipline ourselves and cooperate with our leaders to reach this far.
Let me also caution that the battle against COVID-19 is not over yet. We need to continue to observe the protocols because we do not want to go back into lockdown as some countries are experiencing today. I want to encourage all of us to continue to discipline ourselves in this fight.
Now that we appear to be COVID-19 “free”, we implore our leaders to vigorously tackle the economy with the same strength used to tackle COVID-19. It is no secret that this COVID-19 pandemic has created a great economic fallout in our society. It has had a devastating impact on many people across the country. Many have lost their jobs and livelihood which has negatively impacted several families.
It seems to me that the economy now needs more attention than ever. Our survival as a people after this crisis depends on vibrant economic management and fiscal discipline. Therefore, it is necessary for our economic management team to go all out to make sure the economy is brought back on track, while not compromising the health and safety of our people. Our borders have now been opened because we need income from the tourist sector, our largest source of income, but at the same time, we must make sure diligent screening is done at the various entry points in order to mitigate the spread of any COVID-19 virus that may enter.
Together we will be able to meet these challenges, with the help of God and the cooperation of all of us. Shalom!