The very first group of foreign nationals who are part of the Third Country Refugee program of the United States were scheduled to land on St. Lucian soil this week.
Foreign Minister Alva Baptiste made the announcement Monday while addressing media personnel at the office of the Prime Minister (OPM).
The first group, which consist of five male and one female, are believed to be individuals rounded up by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) for varying infractions on US soil.
St. Lucia is among a number of Caribbean islands participating in this agreement with the United States following a concentrated effort by the Trump administration to rid the US of “Violent Criminals.” Over the next two years, St. Lucia has agreed to accept up to 10 persons per quarter.
However Foreign Minister Baptiste has clarified that St. Lucia will only be receiving non-violent individuals as per the agreement with the US, a position that was previously outlined by Prime Minister Philip Pierre.
“The United States remains a strong and valued partner to St. Lucia. Our relationship is built on cooperation and a shared commitment to addressing regional and international challenges responsibly. On the request of the United States government, we have been discussing how we can assist in implementing the Third Country Nationals Program. I know this matter has raised concerns so let me address them directly. These individuals are not criminals; their circumstances are administrative. They were unable to establish normalcy in their immigration status in the United States and were therefore identified for removal.”
The foreign minister also revealed that the government was working closely with the International Organization for Migration {IOM} as they explore two clear options. “one, voluntary repatriation to their countries of origin of those who choose to remain to follow the appropriate laws and receive support for their integration into St. Lucian society.”
The foreign minister says the decision to participate in this program reflects the values we uphold as a nation. He insisted that the nation will be kept up to date at every tune on this issue. He reiterated that the individuals being received, should be treated with respect and dignity, particularly they are not prisoners.
Baptiste explained that the discussion and the decision process commenced last year clarifying what can and cannot afford to do from St. Lucia perspective.
Asked about the financial burden to St. Lucia, the foreign minister indicated that as per the agreement, St. Lucia was not expected to foot the bill.