Government of Saint Lucia

The Saint Lucia Association of Retired Persons (SLARP) is encouraging seniors to embrace retirement as a new phase of opportunity, offering programs that foster social engagement, lifelong learning, wellness, and active aging while combating isolation and depression.

Twenty-four residents of Babonneau have successfully completed a four-week traditional dance workshop under the Taiwan Technical Mission's Community Business Revitalization Project, leading to the formation of the Babonneau Cultural Ambassadors to preserve the community's cultural heritage.

The U.S.-based Lift Her Initiative will provide undergarments, personal care items, and emotional support to incarcerated women at the Bordelais Correctional Facility through a collaborative outreach program aimed at restoring dignity, confidence, and hope.

A record cohort of 48 Saint Lucian students has received scholarships to pursue higher education in Taiwan, reinforcing the long-standing educational partnership between the two countries and preparing the scholars to contribute to national development upon their return.

In the headlines: Forty-Eight Saint Lucian Scholars are set to pursue higher education In Taiwan and a philanthropic organization makes historic donation to women incarcerated at the Bordelais Correctional facility For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Forty-eight Saint Lucians are preparing to exchange one island classroom for another; travelling thousands of miles to Taiwan in pursuit of higher education. This year’s record-breaking cohort also reflects a broader national idea: that education must prepare citizens not merely to earn qualifications, but to help shape the future of their country.

Public officers from government ministries and agencies have completed a week-long strategic policy planning workshop organized by the Department of Economic Development in collaboration with ECLAC. The training aims to strengthen evidence-based policymaking, improve policy coordination, and enhance the government's capacity to develop and implement effective national and sectoral development plans.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is urging the public to purchase prescription medications, including GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic, only from licensed pharmacies. Officials warn that medications obtained through social media, beauty establishments, or other unauthorized vendors may be counterfeit, contaminated, improperly stored, or unsafe, posing serious health risks.

The Laborie Development Foundation has unveiled the refurbished Iconic Laborian Centre, showcasing the history and achievements of the community through interactive exhibits and audio-guided displays. Six additional distinguished Laborians were honoured, bringing the total number of Iconic Laborians to 13, while Taiwan's support for the revitalization project was recognized for helping preserve the community's heritage and promote local economic development.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has praised police officers, business owners, commuters, revellers, and the wider public for their cooperation in ensuring a safe, secure, and incident-free Carnival 2026. Acting Police Commissioner Albert Charlery thanked all stakeholders for their professionalism, patience, and responsible conduct, which contributed to the successful staging of the national celebration.

A new community outreach initiative, Lift Her, has been launched in partnership with the Saint Lucia Crisis Centre to provide vulnerable women and girls with properly fitted bras while promoting breast health, dignity, and self-confidence. The programme also focuses on advocacy against domestic violence and aims to empower women through partnerships with local organizations.

In the headlines: The Lift Her Bra Initiative has been launched and police commend public cooperation during Carnival 2026 For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Taiwan Technical Mission, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Security, recently hosted a harvesting exercise and officially commissioned a new seedling nursery dedicated to the propagation of dragon fruit and grafted guava. The initiative forms part of the Enhancement of the Efficiency of Production and Distribution Supply Chain in the Fruits and Vegetables Sector Project, commonly known as the Seven Crops Project. More info: https://www.govt.lc/news/taiwan-technical-mission-and-department-of-agriculture-advance-food-security-with-dragon-fruit-and-guava-harvest

Hundreds of young people across Saint Lucia have begun benefiting from a series of summer camps designed to build confidence, strengthen life skills, and create positive pathways for personal development. More info: https://www.govt.lc/news/summer-camps-open-across-saint-lucia-equipping-youth-with-skills-for-success

The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has announced reforms to its School-Based Assessment (SBA) system to protect academic integrity amid the growing use of artificial intelligence. Traditional SBAs will be replaced with an enhanced Paper 3/2 assessment for non-practical subjects, allowing students to prepare in advance and bring reference notes into supervised examinations. The phased rollout will provide schools, teachers, and students with time and guidance to adapt to the new assessment model.

Government officials, regional experts, and stakeholders gathered at a cybersecurity forum aimed at strengthening cyber resilience as Saint Lucia advances its digital transformation agenda. ICT Project Manager Johannith Khodra emphasized that strong cyber governance and collaboration across government, organizations, and communities are essential to protecting critical digital infrastructure and maintaining public trust.

Investment Minister Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire says revenue generated through Saint Lucia's Citizenship by Investment Programme remains an important source of non-tax income that helps finance healthcare, infrastructure, and other national development priorities. While CIP contributes less than ten percent of government revenue, he noted that the programme reduces pressure on taxpayers and acknowledged the need for greater public awareness of how these funds are invested.

The Government of Saint Lucia will pursue further diplomatic engagement with the European Union following its latest position on Caribbean Citizenship by Investment (CIP) programmes. Deputy Prime Minister and Investment Minister Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire said Saint Lucia has already strengthened its programme through legislative reforms, including minimum net worth requirements, annual quotas, residential obligations, and enhanced value metrics, while regional leaders seek continued dialogue before determining their next steps.

The Government of Saint Lucia will appoint a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the July 18, 2026 marine collision at Anse Cochon that claimed at least two lives. Chaired by a former senior judicial official and supported by marine safety experts and a police investigator, the Commission will examine the incident, recommend improvements to maritime safety regulations, strengthen oversight, and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

In the headlines: Prime Minister announces commission of inquiry into Anse Cochon marine collision and Hon. Ernest Hilaire highlights CIP revenue’s contribution to National Development For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Senior Government officials, regional institutions and international agricultural experts convened in Saint Lucia this week for a High-Level Technical Mission aimed at developing a strategic roadmap to modernize the nation's agricultural sector

The Government Information Service is mourning the passing of retired Information Technician Norman "Charlie" Charlemagne, remembering his decades of dedicated public service, valued contributions to Parliament, and passion for music. Tributes highlighted his professionalism, humility, and the lasting impact he made on colleagues and the nation's democratic institutions.

Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre has extended condolences to the family of Barbadian National Hero Sir Garfield Sobers, describing his passing as a tremendous loss to Barbados, West Indies cricket, and the Caribbean. The Prime Minister paid tribute to Sir Garfield's remarkable achievements and lasting contribution to regional pride and sporting excellence.

Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre has expressed heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragic marine collision at Anse Cochon. He also wished the injured a speedy recovery, commended emergency responders for their efforts, and reaffirmed the Government's support for ongoing rescue operations and investigations.

Saint Lucian sprint star Julien Alfred delivered another world-class performance, winning the women's 200 metres at the London Diamond League in a meeting record time of 21.66 seconds. Alfred held off Olympic champion Gabby Thomas to secure victory, further cementing her place among the world's elite sprinters.

Organizers have declared Lucian Carnival 2026 a major success, unveiling the winners across the festival's various competitions. XUVO Carnival Band captured Band of the Year, Sharon Tanner was crowned Individual of the Year, and Andrew claimed the Road March title with "Biscuit". Officials praised the continued growth of the festival and thanked all stakeholders for contributing to another successful carnival season.

In the headlines: Lucian Carnival 2026 Results have been announced and Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre expresses condolences following Anse Cochon marine collision For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

A comprehensive review of judging procedures across Saint Lucia's national carnival competitions is planned. Proposed reforms include updated electronic scoring systems, clearer tie-breaking rules, and measures to reduce judging bias, with officials also examining best practices from other Caribbean territories to strengthen future competitions.

Following the unprecedented crowning of two National Carnival Queens, the Carnival Planning and Management Committee will review the pageant's rules ahead of next year's competition. Government says clearer tie-breaking procedures will be introduced after organizers opted against creating new rules after judging had already concluded.

Government is exploring ways to broaden Saint Lucia's carnival offerings by hosting more regional events and competitions. Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire believes the island has the infrastructure and expertise to stage major regional pageants and competitions, while plans are also underway to blend experienced carnival administrators with a new generation of organizers.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire says Saint Lucia must modernize how it manages crowds during major events if it hopes to strengthen its reputation as the Caribbean's event capital. He stressed the need for improved planning, extended visitor services, enhanced public safety, and a better overall experience for both locals and tourists.

The 2026 Lucian Carnival celebrations came to a vibrant close as 15 carnival bands, including five junior bands, paraded through the streets of Castries. Thousands of spectators witnessed colourful costumes, creative portrayals, and energetic performances, while anticipation builds for the announcement of competition winners, including Road March, Band of the Year, and Old Mas results.

In the headlines: Carnival celebrations culminate after the 2 day parade and a call for a new approach to Carnival crowd management For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Substance Abuse Advisory Council Secretariat within the Ministry of Health is urging the public to remain vigilant about the presence and use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) during the Carnival season. New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) such as Molly, Ecstasy and other drugs can pose severe health risks to an individual and can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, confusion and severe anxiety. If you or someone you know begins to feel unwell and is experiencing these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention at a health facility.

The Ministry responsible for Civil Aviation is reminding the public that unauthorized drone operations are prohibited near George F.L. Charles Airport during the Parade of the Bands, with only Ministry-authorized and Carnival Planning and Management Committee-approved operators permitted to conduct aerial filming in the interest of public and aviation safety.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is urging revelers to make responsible choices by practicing safe sex, carrying condoms, avoiding risky sexual behaviour, and seeking testing when necessary to help protect themselves, their partners, and the wider community throughout Carnival.

The Environmental Health Division is encouraging food vendors and patrons to prioritize food safety by following proper hygiene and food handling practices, obtaining the necessary food handlers' licences, and taking precautions to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses during the Carnival festivities.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has launched heightened security operations, urging the public to celebrate responsibly while officers maintain an increased presence across the island to ensure a safe Carnival.

Residents and visitors will regain access to the Castries Waterfront as redevelopment works pause temporarily for the Carnival weekend, with construction set to resume once the festivities conclude.

In the headlines: The Castries Waterfront reopens for Carnival weekend and the RSLPF appeals for a peaceful Carnival For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Government of Saint Lucia is strengthening its capacity for strategic, evidence-based decision-making through a week-long Strategic Policy Planning Workshop designed to equip public officers with the knowledge and tools to develop, implement and monitor national policies that deliver measurable results.

Saint Lucian Olympic champion Julien Alfred continued her outstanding form by winning the women's 100 metres in Budapest with a season's best time of 10.87 seconds, following her record-breaking victory in the 200 metres at the Monaco Diamond League.