THE ST. LUCIA GOVERNMENT IMPASSE NOW SETTLED
June 10, 2008
EDWARD HARRIS AT LARGE!
THE ST. LUCIA GOVERNMENT IMPASSE NOW SETTLED
HON. RUFUS BOUSQUET IS BACK IN THE CABINET!!!
The period of uncertainty has ended and some semblance of normalcy has returned to the nation. Hon. Rufus Bousquet was assigned the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Commerce, Consumer Affairs and Investment with responsibility for the National Development Corporation. It was rumoured that Hon. Marcus Nicholas would have been given a Ministry, however the current position is that he is still the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly. Senator, Hon. Guy Mayers who held the portfolios of Trade, Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs has been given the portfolios of Home Affairs and Internal Security.
Senator, Hon. Guy Mayers participated in the successful negotiation of the Economic Partnership Agreement between the European Union and Cariforum which was signed towards the end of 2007 and is expected to come into effect shortly. His experience as President of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture having served several terms equipped him to make a substantial contribution to the negotiations. His experience as President of the Chamber will also put him in a good position to deal with his new portfolios as he led several private sector delegations that dealt with the issue of crime on the island in recent years. However, the issues of the Police will be a serious test for the newly appointed Minister. The next 90 days should give a clear indication regarding the future of the Police Force.
The Prime Minister in an address to the nation this week alluded to the many projects in the pipe line. A substantial amount of the projects would be implemented in the last quarter of 2008. There is no doubt that St. Lucia is poised to achieve great advances in its economic activities but the Government will have to give leadership and settle down to serving the needs of all the people of St. Lucia. The next 90 days will give a clear indication of the way forward. While there is calm on the surface, it is not all peace in the valley. The people of St. Lucia have exhibited great patience with their Government. The time has come for the nation to move forward and get on with the business at hand.
It is interesting to note that St. Lucia is attracting a number of regional and international conferences and workshops. Businesses are doing their best to meet the challenges of reduced sales in most cases and high operating costs experienced generally. Companies are improving efficiency by confirming to international standards and subscribing to bench marking in an effort to be competitive.
Discussion on the Labour Code is being put on the front burner as the Private Sector is getting its team together to begin negotiating the terms and conditions of the code that will be mutually acceptable. The Trade Unions are pressing for the early implementation of the Code.
Guyanese resident in St. Lucia celebrated the 42nd Independence Anniversary of Guyana’s Independence with a Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Saturday 24th May, 2008 at the Spinners Entertainment & Conference Centre, Union, Castries. The event was well attended and Guyanese turned in their numbers to celebrate. The Master of Ceremony was Mr. Joseph “Reds†Perreira. Mrs. Alyson Chester expressed satisfaction with the response of Guyanese. The Association held its 10th Annual General Meeting on Sunday 8th June, 2008 at the Rex St. Lucian Hotel at Reduit, Gros Islet. Mrs. Chester was elected to continue as President of the Association.
Mr. David Singh, Chairman of the Destiny Group of Companies based in Toronto, Canada is promoting St. Lucia as an ideal destination for Investors. He launched Caribe IN.PULSE Magazine in May, 2008 targeting members of the Caribbean Diaspora. You can subscribe to this FREE magazine on-line at http://www.inpulsemagazine.com
In spite of the recent political impasse in St. Lucia, the economy continues to be active and employment in the construction sector will be sustained at the 2006/2007 levels.
Don’t miss Carnival 2008. It will be Great! The action dates are July 18 – 22, 2008. In the meantime, the tents are rocking as Calypsonians and Soca Artistes get ready for the finals.
Keep the Faith, God is in Charge, Dream Big and Expect Miracles all the time!!!
Edward Harris
Biblicist, Freelance Journalist, Author, Business & PR Consultant, Realtor, Sales & Marketing Specialist, Networker, Private Sector Advocate, Motivational Speaker
Email: eaharrisdestiny@gmail.com
Websites: http://www.Edwardharris.ws http://www.stluciasimplybeautiful.com http://www.stluciarealtors.com http://EdwardHarris.myvisalus.com