Over one hundred Saint Lucians are currently employed on the Cabot Saint Lucia project, either through direct hire or through contractor arrangements.
The company made the announcement this week signaling, perhaps, a turning point in relations with locals over the manner in which works on the site were carried out, relations which at times were froth with accusations of citizens’ rights being violated and archeological and heritage sites being desecrated.
“This is a significant milestone for Cabot, and for the community” says CEO, Kristine Thompson, speaking on the number of Saint Lucians now working with the company.
“As our team continues to grow, we are so proud to be fulfilling our promise to improve the livelihoods of more and more St. Lucians. Our hiring policy remains locals first, then OECS, wider Caribbean and International, in that order…. and we are just at the start of this journey,” she added.
Employees and a local contractor shared how they felt about being part of the development – the first international property from the Canadian developer that will comprise a golf club, residential community and resort:
“I have been involved in construction work for as far back as I can remember. Being part of this major development in my country is important to me because I get to play a role in seeing this project to completion and the significant contribution it promises to make to our country,” noted Sebastian Charles – Construction Manager.
“As a woman, working with Cabot has been a dream come true for me. Positions like mine are not traditionally filled by women and Cabot has supported me and given me the opportunity to fulfill my career dreams right here in Saint Lucia,” said Dilona Hilaire- Clerk .
Local contractor Junior Joseph said, “It is a good thing to still be able to employ Saint Lucians at a time when COVID has caused businesses to shut down or to downsize, putting many of our people on the breadline. Cabot Saint Lucia is providing much needed employment not just directly but through contractors like myself.”
Cabot anticipates that the development will bring many other significant benefits to Saint Lucia. The project, on completion will offer a brand-new golf club, boutique resort and residential community located on a lush 375-acre peninsula in Saint Lucia. The property will feature a masterful Coore & Crenshaw designed 18-hole golf course and a collection of residences ranging from hillside townhomes to expansive single-family homes and lots. Cabot Saint Lucia broke ground on phase one of development in the summer of 2019. The Cabot Point golf course will have preview holes available next year and its official grand opening is set for 2022.