Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has made an urgent and heartfelt plea for citizens to reduce the tension and political rhetoric contributing to the escalating crime wave in the country.
He called for “peace and tranquility” to foster law and order.
Amid the ongoing crime dilemma, particularly the gun violence affecting communities across Saint Lucia, the Prime Minister revealed that the newly appointed acting Police Commissioner, Verne Garde, has presented the Crime Prevention Strategy for 2024/25 to him. He mentioned that there will be follow-up discussions with the hierarchy of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) to address the issue.
PM Pierre emphasized the need for societal cohesion, stating that there is no “one-way solution” to tackling crime. He also warned against engaging in “wanton criminality.”
“We should watch the rhetoric as it pertains to crime. We seem to be developing a society where some of the words spoken create animosity, distrust, and anger that doesn’t augur well for our society,” the National Security Minister noted.
The Prime Minister believes that everyone should play their part in the fight against crime, stressing that there is no need to create increased animosity or hatred.
He acknowledged that the current era, marked by a rise in gun violence, is detrimental to the country, even though reports indicate a 20% reduction in summary offenses.
The Prime Minister highlighted that through its network of social programs, the government has implemented several Crime Intervention Strategies to deter young people from engaging in criminal activities.
PM Pierre mentioned the SEEDS Project, which involves social interventions to improve the environment and reduce crime. He also spoke of the ACTS Project, funded through the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), to promote crime prevention strategies.
Additionally, he noted the establishment of the inaugural Saint Lucia Semi-Professional Football League (SPFL), which uses sports as a means to combat violence in the country.
The Prime Minister also cautioned against reckless driving, which results in “carnage on the streets.” He urged personal responsibility, emphasizing the need for drivers and motorcyclists to observe simple measures like wearing crash helmets and avoiding unnecessary overtaking.
PM Pierre asserted that these reckless accidents can be avoided by exercising more personal responsibility and using moral persuasion to encourage citizens to be mindful of their words to help combat the problem.