Tourism Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire has praised the Homecoming Celebrations for Julien Alfred as a tremendous success, attributing it to the overwhelming support from Saint Lucians both locally and abroad.
The National Concert on Julien Alfred Day, September 27, was a powerful demonstration of unity and patriotism, highlighting the potential for collective action to address social issues and drive national development.
Dr. Hilaire described the event as “a rallying call for our country to work together,” showcasing the spirit of achievement and national identity.
During a media briefing on Monday, Dr. Hilaire emphasised the importance of using this momentum to improve living conditions across communities islandwide. He expressed satisfaction with the responses to the Homecoming of the island’s sprint sensation, Julien Alfred.
The Parliamentary Representative for Castries South stressed the need to build on this momentum and recognize the possibilities that arise from a shared purpose among citizens.
“I want to thank everyone who made this occasion the tremendous success it was,” he stated, extending gratitude to all supporting agencies, groups, officers of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF), and allied services for their contributions.
“The police did a phenomenal job, and they stepped up in a big way,” he added.
Dr. Hilaire noted that there has never been a time in Saint Lucia’s history with such an outpouring of national support, unity, and patriotism, coupled with a strong sense of achievement and identity.
He continued, “In some ways, it’s a statement to us as a people, as a country, that we can work together and make things happen.”
Reflecting on Julien’s triumphs, the minister said, “It was a rallying call for all of us.” He expressed hope that this spirit of unity would continue, allowing Saint Lucians to see the possibilities that can emerge from working together with a shared purpose.
Dr. Hilaire also highlighted Julien’s partnership with Puma and her upcoming role as a Tourism Ambassador, underscoring the impact of her success.
The Castries South MP observed that, “It was a very special feeling,” when Julien visited her Alma Mata, at Ciceron, where a mural was unveiled in her honour and she interacted with the young students.
Hilaire spoke of Julien’s partnership with Puma, and Puma’s announcement that by the next school year, “all the children (students) at the school will receive Puma shoes.”
He said that Alfred’s stint as a Tourism Ambassador, begins in November, “and we will have a Special Programme in London.”
Hilaire asserted: “We were magnificent as a country …and we should not allow our shortcomings to pull down just how spectacular it was, last week.”
The minister added that it is imperative to maintain this spectacular spirit and strive for even greater achievements as a nation.