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PM Pierre Highlights Major Developments in New Year’s Address

Prime Minister Philip J Pierre
Prime Minister Philip J Pierre

In his New Year’s Day address, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre highlighted notable developments in the hospitality sector and underscored the continuous advancements in agriculture. He emphasised that these developments are crucial for improving the livelihoods of workers nationwide.

The prime minister announced that tourism serves as the main catalyst for wealth, revenue, and economic activity in Saint Lucia. He emphasised the significance of “Community-based tourism,” noting that it directly supports local communities and promotes sustainable development.

Mr. Pierre emphasised that this favourable trend is expected to strengthen in 2025. Investments from the government and enhanced resources for the Community Tourism Agency (CTA) will provide greater support to additional rural and coastal communities, guaranteeing that the advantages of tourism are accessible to those who require it the most. He announced that 2024 was a “record-breaking” year for tourist arrivals in Saint Lucia. As of October 2024, stayover tourist arrivals increased to 13% above pre-COVID-19 levels and 15% higher than in 2023.

“Cruise ship arrivals are expected to exceed 800,000 by the end of the cruise season, and tourism’s contribution to GDP will continue to rise in 2025,” PM Pierre asserted.

The prime minister announced that the momentum from last year’s launch of several key tourism projects will continue into 2025.

Significant initiatives encompass the Rodney Bay Development, which began last April, along with ongoing projects like the renovation and refurbishment of Secrets Resort and Spa, the Mount Pinnard Hotels at Reduit, Dreams and Zoetry Hotel, and Canneles Hotel Development.

“It is the government’s firm position that the benefits of tourism must extend to as many people as possible. Individuals who are willing to engage in the economy should not face exclusion, provided they meet the established standards,” he stated.

PM Pierre highlighted that the Tourism Development Act will provide greater certainty, making investment incentives more attainable and beneficial for those who make substantial contributions to the economy.

He acknowledged the concerns of taxi operators about the decrease in tourists during peak cruise arrivals and expressed a dedication to collaboratively tackle these issues for the benefit of all parties involved.

Furthermore, PM Pierre emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of farmers, who are essential to local food production and serving visitors. The UBEC programme provided vital assistance to numerous farmers, supplying them with water tanks and agricultural inputs to enhance their productivity.

The Farm Workers Support Programme will continue in 2025, enhancing efforts to reduce the food import bill while supplying citizens with healthy, locally-grown produce.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister declared a rise in the fuel rebate for registered fishers with Cooperative Societies, increasing it from $1.50 to $2.50 per gallon, with a limit of 6,000 gallons per vessel. “This initiative aims to reduce operational costs and enhance the livelihoods of our fishers,” he stated.

PM Pierre also said that $438,000 was allocated to fishers in Soufriere who experienced losses due to Hurricane Beryl, highlighting the government’s proactive support during difficult times.

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