In his Throne Speech on Tuesday, Governor General Sir Errol Charles underscored Saint Lucia’s upward trajectory, asserting that the nation has made significant strides, and its citizens are prepared to tackle their responsibilities head-on.
However, the Head of State cautioned against the negative impacts of external forces that threaten countries and citizens worldwide.
Following the traditional Guard of Honour outside the parliament buildings for the Opening of the Fifth Session of the Twelfth Parliament of Saint Lucia, the Governor General addressed the legislators and senators assembled for a combined sitting of the lower and upper houses.
He emphasized that Saint Lucia’s pride and joy have surged due to Julien Alfred’s outstanding performance at the Olympic Games and international athletics competitions.
“This deep sense of pride sets a robust foundation for our nation’s future and empowers my government to build a society of achievers,” he declared. This pride reinforces the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Saint Lucian economy, enhancing healthcare, ensuring the safety and security of citizens, and increasing employment and job creation.
Later this week, Saint Lucian legislators will debate the country’s largest budget, highlighting recurrent and capital expenditure of $2.1 billion for the fiscal year 2025-2026.
“The 2025-2026 Budget is a reflection of the favorable performance of the Saint Lucian economy, which boasts an average annual growth rate exceeding 3% over the past three years, a primary current account surplus, and, for the first time, unemployment rates dipping below 10%,” noted the Governor General.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant regarding international trade tariffs that create significant unpredictability in global markets. “These tariffs have already introduced an uncertain global economic landscape that we must navigate with skill to shield our people from the consequences of rising inflation,” Sir Errol asserted.
Nevertheless, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare and announced that the St. Jude Hospital (SJH) will be completed and commissioned soon. “Fifteen years after the devastating fire, the time has come—Saint Jude Hospital will be completed and commissioned for the benefit of patients, doctors, nurses, and support staff,” Governor General Charles proclaimed.
Additionally, a fifth wing will be constructed at the OKEU Hospital to enhance services and increase bed capacity at the country’s primary healthcare facility. The government is also set to expand the Universal Health Care Programme, currently providing “free cervical, prostate, and kidney disease screenings, among other services,” to integrate and improve efficiency in healthcare delivery.
In recent months, consultants have actively engaged with stakeholders to propel this initiative forward.
Addressing the pressing issue of crime, the Governor general said, “The prevalence of crime reflects deeper societal issues that must be confronted. As a nation, we must cultivate a greater respect for the sanctity of human life.”
He stated that the government has launched multiple social initiatives aimed at empowering vulnerable groups, ensuring they can attain self-sufficiency and live with dignity while maintaining a steadfast commitment to enhancing citizen safety and reducing crime.
Governor General Charles emphasized the urgent need for an efficient judicial system to ensure timely justice. “The government’s SWIFT Justice project was launched last year and has already addressed over one hundred criminal cases pending before the High Court,” he explained.
He added, “My government consistently provides unparalleled support for law enforcement by equipping them with necessary training, tools, and conducive working conditions to foster their motivation and capability in preventing and addressing crime.”
Furthermore, he announced the state-of-the-art Gros Islet Divisional Headquarters, currently under construction, will be completed in the last quarter of 2025.
On the topic of Food Security, the Governor General called for robust support for local agriculture. “We must prioritize local production, grow what we eat, and eat what we grow. It is imperative that we effectively utilize our available resources,” he insisted.
“Our food security must evolve beyond mere rhetoric and take center stage in our national development. We stand at a pivotal juncture in our progress, which demands immediate action to ensure our survival as a nation,” he stated.
The Governor General asserted firmly, “We must initiate that shift now for ourselves and future generations.”