Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, just back from a top-level meeting in Washington DC with representatives of the US State Department, has invited the parliamentary opposition to join the conversation on the reduction of fuel prices on the local scene.
The invitation came against the backdrop of the increasing price of oil internationally and the pressure being applied by the opposition concerning fuel prices locally.
Prime Minister Pierre acknowledged the adverse effects of the rising prices, highlighting that it touches every part of existence in St. Lucia not excluding the health facilities, WASCO and statutory bodies across the island. He reiterated that St. Lucia has no control over the price of oil, much like other regional territories who are suffering the same dilemma. He further highlighted that the government will continue to subsidize fuel as is financially feasible, pointing to a first-time subsidy on the 100 pounds cylinder, as evidence of that commitment. He pointed to the enactment of the Energy Supply Act which removes duties on solar panels as another effort by the government to offer more avenues to reduce costs.
The prime minister went further to clarify that a comparison between St. Lucia and other regional territories may not be accurate primarily because all regional countries do not hold the same economic strength, or fiscal space of VAT arrangement.
Pierre also revealed that discussions will soon be held with LUCELEC to look at the cost of electricity locally.
The prime minister contends that the current situation requires a national approach and invited all with “feasible” suggestions to come forward in the fight for better fuel prices, including the opposition. He rejected the premise that individuals should play petty politics with this issue as it is of grave national concern. He went on to point out that the St. Lucia Labour Party, as an organization, has a long history of expressing their desire to working with the other side and is ready and willing to continue along those lines but that participation must exclude what he described as “vitriol.”
The invitation from the prime minister came Monday as he briefed members of the media on the Washington meeting dubbed US Caribbean Dialogue where the topics raised included beneficial partnerships, more affordable energy, greater investment and employment, safety and security, stronger health care and adequate preparation for disasters. As part of the discussion, the US announced regional financial commitments totaling $340.8 million, signaling according to the prime minister, “potential opportunities for deeper cooperation and development across the Caribbean.”