In the headlines: Students and faculty of the Sir. Arthur Lewis Community College pay tribute to Nobel Laureates Sir. Arthur Lewis and Sir. Derek Walcott and; Saint Lucia joins the observance of World Cancer Day under the subtheme "Saint Lucia moves to conquer cancer" For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

As we observe World Cancer Day this year, we are reminded of the impacts of cancer on families throughout St Lucia. We fear cancer because more often than not, we associate cancer with prolonged suffering and death.

A cohort of farmers have completed a Farmer Field School (FFS) program organized by the agriculture Ministry in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization, a pivotal move in promoting sustainability and addressing challenges posed by shifts in the agricultural landscape.

In the headlines: Celebrity Beyond, recently made its inaugural call to Port Castries and; The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports implement processes to aid in the training of youth workers. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Government of Saint Lucia and the National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee (NAMLOC) have much to be proud following Saint Lucia’s success application for re-rating of the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) recommendations for the prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing. The country was subject to the enhanced follow-up process due to some significant inadequacies in relation to the FATF 40 Recommendations.

In the headlines: The Micoud North Constituency has commenced a series of enhancements to their communal playing field and; Export Saint Lucia gears up to host the second edition of the National Business Expo. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Second staging of the Central Library’s Literary Festival also known as Litfest has been dubbed a huge success. The activity came off at the Central Library last week Friday

In the headlines: The National Housing Refurbishment program and Sports development benefit from a Republic of China Taiwan grant donation and; Stakeholders and Residents of Piaye gather for a handover and plaque unveiling ceremony for the Piaye Bridge. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Health seems to be a topic which always brings nations together. Furthermore, the Cancer as a disease continues to lead the global discussions as the number one killer among nations. This February 4th, the world unites again under one voice, observing World Cancer Day under the Theme “Closing the Care Gap”. St. Lucia will also join the observance, under the subtheme “Saint Lucia Moves to Conquer Cancer”.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs continues to note an increase in the number of persons presenting with flu-like illnesses at the Emergency Departments, Wellness Centers and private doctors’ offices. This is due to new COVID-19 variants, Influenza A and B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Over the last 14 days, an increase in hospitalizations and deaths due to COVID-19 were also noted. During the period January 15-25, 2024 three COVID-19 deaths were recorded. The elderly, persons with chronic health conditions and the unvaccinated are most affected at this time. The Ministry of Health has begun preparation in the event that cases continue to increase. The hospitals are on alert to ensure supplies, equipment and medication is available. PCR and rapid testing are available free of charge to the public at the various Wellness Centers and Community Hospitals and Polyclinic. The regional public health agencies are working to source and supply the region with the necessary vaccines. The public is encouraged to reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses by the following measures: ·       Maintain a healthy lifestyle, through diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, reduced stress and toxic habits ·       Ensure compliance by taking prescribed medication if you suffer from any chronic health conditions ·       Strengthen sanitary measures at home and work and maintain proper hand hygiene with regular hand washing ·       Wear a face mask when presenting flu like symptoms ·       Consult a healthcare professional if flu like symptoms linger or worsen   All persons with chronic health conditions are strongly advised to wear a facemask when in public, in crowded conditions, and avoid contact with others who are sick. Personal responsibility is important at this time. Facemasks are available at all the public health facilities to patients who may need. General updated guidelines have been prepared for all of the main agencies. The Ministry of Health reminds the general public that we are presently in the flu season which runs from October to March and as such, would like to encourage the use of the flu vaccine which is available free of charge at the various wellness centers. The COVID-19 Janssen vaccine is also available and can be taken as a booster especially for persons with risks factors or chronic illness. The Ministry of Health will continue to provide regular updates and health education to the general public to take the necessary measures to reduce the impact of respiratory illness at this time.

In the headlines: The Inland Revenue Department sheds light on the Tax Administration Procedures Act and; A recently held School-Supervision retreat of the Ministry of Education is being viewed as significant to improving school management within the education sector. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Soufriere Regional Development Foundation (SRDF) is pleased to announce its upcoming event, "SRDF Celebrates the Arts," as part of Nobel Laureate Festival activities. This celebration of artistic talent will take place on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at the Soufriere Primary School Grounds, commencing at 4 pm. The event aims to pay tribute to Saint Lucia's esteemed Nobel Laureates, Sir Arthur Lewis, and Sir Derek Walcott, by showcasing the creative prowess of youth in the literary and performing arts. Six schools within Soufriere will participate, bringing forth performances that reflect the richness of our cultural heritage and the influence of these two iconic figures. Date: Sunday, January 28, 2024Time: 4:00 pmVenue: Soufriere Primary School Grounds Featured Schools: Soufriere Infant SchoolSoufriere Primary SchoolLes Etangs Combined SchoolFond St Jacques Primary SchoolSoufriere Comprehensive Secondary SchoolBouton Primary School The event has received endorsement and support from the National Nobel Laureate Committee, chaired by Governor General Emerita, Dame Pearlette Louisy. This collaboration underscores the significance of fostering educational, cultural, and youth development initiatives in the region. Corporate Communications and Marketing Manager at SRDF, Mrs. Lovely St. Aime-Joseph, says the SRDF believes that fostering artistic expression is crucial for the holistic development of the community. "SRDF Celebrates the Arts" is not just a tribute to our Nobel Laureates but also a platform to empower and inspire the next generation of artists.

World Leprosy Day is held annually on the last Sunday of January. This day aims to raise awareness about leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease. World Leprosy Day is a call to action and seeks to promote efforts to combat the stigma and discrimination that persons affected by leprosy often face. This year World Leprosy Day falls on January 28, 2024. The theme for 2024 is “Ending Stigma, Embracing Dignity”. Leprosy is a chronic disease which affects the skin, nerves and eyes and is caused by a bacterium (Mycobacterium Leprae). Leprosy is curable using a combination of drugs which are available free of charge within the public health system. Leprosy is not an illness of the past, it still affects millions of persons around the world and scores of St. Lucians today! In 2023 the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs registered 11 new cases and at the start of 2024 has already diagnosed new cases. This infection may be transmitted mainly through droplets from the nose and mouth during prolonged close contact with untreated leprosy cases. It has a long incubation period, on average, at least 5 years. That means someone could be infected with leprosy but NOT show any signs (lesions on the body) or symptoms (loss of feeling and decreased sweating in the lesions) for up to 5 years. When we speak of stigma, we refer to any negative thoughts or beliefs associated with the illness, and discrimination is any action taken based on those beliefs. One example may be that we would not want to sit next to a person that we think has Leprosy on a bus because we are afraid that we may catch it from them. Leprosy appears to affect men and other persons who live with or have prolonged contact with untreated persons with Leprosy. This year we intend to introduce treatment for persons who have had close contact with someone with leprosy. This medication will help in reducing the chances of getting Leprosy. One single dose of Rifampicin can lower the possibility of you getting Leprosy if you have been in close contact with an infected person. The MOH urges all to take a close look at yourself and family members. If you see a light coloured spot with decreased sensation or feeling, or getting non- healing recurrent burns and ulcers to the hands and feet, please visit your nearest health care facility. The first step in preventing complications is getting a correct diagnosis and starting treatment early. If left untreated, leprosy can cause deformities such as clawing of the hands, the loss of fingers and toes due to loss of sensation to the hands and feet. It may even cause blindness. However, early detection and access to proper treatment can prevent disability. Let us all join hands to end the stigma associated with Leprosy and promote the dignity of people affected by the disease. Together we can make a difference!

The Castries Comprehensive Secondary School celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. The educational institution opened its doors in 1974 and has molded the minds and careers of thousands of students over the years. In celebration of this milestone, the CCSS Alumni have planned several activities among which is a Walk to 50 to be held this Sunday, January 28th 

In the headlines: The Government of St. Lucia receives funding for projects from the Republic of China Taiwan and; The Ministry of Agriculture is on course to identifying vulnerabilities in the farming community. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Education Minister Shawn Edward has pledged his Ministry's continued support to uniform groups like the Saint Lucia Cadet Corps (SLCC) in playing their Significant role in the development of the country and indeed the lives of young Saint Lucians. The Cadet Corp recently hosted its second Commandant's Parade, at the NEMO grounds in Bisee.

Limelight is being placed on challenges faced within the agriculture, as the Ministry of Agriculture, teams up with stakeholders to continue resilience improvement measures. This, as The Building Resilience for Adaptation to Climate Change and Climate Variability in Agriculture in Saint Lucia (BRACCCVAS) is on the forefront, actively engaging in a thorough analysis to map and tackle vulnerabilities across Saint Lucia.

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has welcomed the recent media coverage and public discourse of the Draft Tax Administration Procedures Act, which was circulated to select stakeholders for comment from last year 2023. The Comptroller and Senior Legal Officer at the IRD have sought to clarify some of the issues surrounding the draft legislation.   For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The community of Mon Repos gathers to witness the sod turning ceremony for the areas new state-of-the-art cemetery and; COTA is to hold its Annual General Assembly for Tax Administrators in Saint Lucia. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

A recently held School-Supervision retreat of the Ministry of Education is being viewed as significant to improving school management within the education sector. The retreat held at the Royalton Hotel brought together education officers within the various School districts and units on the island.

 The Ministry of Agriculture,Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development through the Building Resilience for Adaptation to Climate Change and Climate Variability in Agriculture in Saint Lucia (BRACCCVAS) Project is on the course of identifying vulnerabilities in the farming community as the focus in on developing a Geographic Information System.

In the headlines: The Town of Soufriere will play host to this year’s annual National Independence Rally and Independence show case and; The Taiwanese Embassy Brings Hope to Marginalized Families For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Soufriere Regional Development Foundation (SRDF) mourns the passing of a distinguished former director on the board of the organization, Mr. Innocent Aimable. Mr. Aimable served with dedication and passion during his tenure from 2021 to 2023, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and the community at large. He was also an esteemed founding member of the Soufriere Action Theatre, where his commitment to arts and culture was evident. His influence reached beyond the boardroom, making a significant impact on the cultural landscape of the region, and reflecting his belief in the power of creativity to bring communities together. In addition to his contributions to the arts, Mr. Aimable was a stalwart figure in the local community, having served as a teacher and leaving an enduring legacy of education and mentorship. His commitment to fostering knowledge and empowering others underscored his belief in the transformative power of education. As a local contractor, Mr. Aimable contributed to the development and infrastructure of the Soufriere community and surrounding areas. The loss of Mr. Aimable is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we carry forward the values he championed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire community during this difficult time. In memory of a remarkable community leader and advocate for arts, culture, education, and community development, the board, management and staff of the SRDF pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Mr. Innocent Aimable. 

COVID-19 Update   The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has noted an increase in the number of persons presenting with flu-like illnesses during the last 2 months. The increase is observed both in visits to the emergency departments and Wellness Centers. This is particularly the case for children less than 5 years of age. On a global level, in January, 2024, the WHO Director-General indicated that in December, 2023 there was a 42 percent increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations and a 62 percent increase in ICU admissions compared to the previous month. Nationally, in addition to COVID-19, the Epidemiology Unit at the Ministry of Health has recorded an increase in confirmed cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Influenza, for the period October 08 to December, 2023. Similar trends were detected globally mainly in parts of Europe, Central Asia and North America due to changes in the temperate Northern hemisphere. On January 17, 2024 the Ministry of Health received laboratory results from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) confirming the presence of Omicron variant HV.1 in samples submitted by the national reference Ezra Long Laboratory. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that HV.1 has become the most dominant variant in the United States, with symptoms closely resembling a cold or the flu. These symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and congestion. Despite the fact that HV.1 seems to be highly transmissible, experts agree that the new subvariant is not known to cause severe disease. This is the likely cause for the increased respiratory illness noted in country. The public is encouraged to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses by the following measures: • maintain proper hand hygiene with regular hand washing • cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing • wash hands thoroughly after coughing or sneezing • wear a face mask where possible in crowded places and when presenting flu like symptoms • avoid sharing cups and utensils • avoid close contact with others who are sick • clean surfaces and objects using household detergent • refrain from sending sick children to school or daycare centers until they are resolved • If symptomatic, avoid contact with people at higher risk of severe illness such as infants, older people and those who are immunocompromised   • educational institutions, work places, business places, and healthcare facilities are advised to strengthen sanitary protocols to reduce transmission • consult a healthcare professional if flu like symptoms linger or worsen The Ministry of Health reminds the general public that we are presently in the flu season which runs from October to March and as such, would like to encourage the use of the flu vaccine which is available free of charge at the various wellness centers. The COVID-19 Janssen vaccine is also available and can be taken as a booster especially for persons with risk factors or chronic illness. COVID-19 testing is also available free of charge at the Wellness Centers. The Ministry of Health alerts the general public to take the necessary measures to reduce the impact of respiratory illness at this time. Further updates will be provided.

In the headlines: The Youth Economy Agency takes further steps in aiding young entrepreneurs and; The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports educates on climate change and its impact on health. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Department of Infrastructure recently gave an update on the Commencement of Works on the West Coast Road Rehabilitation project and the Anse La Raye Bridge Reconstruction and; The quality of health services provided to Saint Lucians through Universal Health Coverage will be improved significantly following a recent handover to the Ministry of Health.  For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Hon. Wayne Girard highlights the government's commitment to prioritizing infrastructure construction in 2024, and the Ministry of Education is engaging teachers in the effective use of digital content for enhancing classroom instruction. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Export Saint Lucia's CEO, Sunita Daniel, along with team members, conducted a comprehensive review on January 16, 2024, of the resounding success achieved during Phase One of the Apiculture Project at the Bordelais Correctional Facility. Initiated in 2022 in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the groundbreaking Apiculture Project engaged seven female inmates in an enriching beekeeping workshop, providing them with valuable skills, opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation. The recent visit by the Export Saint Lucia team underscored the commendable achievements of Phase One and laid the foundation for the eagerly anticipated implementation of Phase Two. “We're set to supply additional hives to the Bordelais Correctional Facility. Moreover, a branding and marketing initiative is in the pipeline. Soon, St. Lucia can expect to find honey-branded products on supermarket shelves and for export, originating from the Bordelais Correctional Facility. The goal is to equip inmates with agricultural and entrepreneurial skills that will reduce the likelihood of recommitting once they leave the prison” remarks Sunita Daniel, Chief Executive Officer of Export Saint Lucia. Phase Two of the Apiculture Project is set to be a transformative extension, focusing on the expansion of training initiatives and the conversion of raw honey into high-value products. This strategic move aligns with Export Saint Lucia's ambitious journey to substantially boost exports of local honey. Officials at the Bordelais Correctional Facility expressed strong endorsement for the Apiculture Project, acknowledging its positive impact on the participating inmates and recognizing the potential for broader community benefits.

Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport Progress Update on Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Reconstruction Project The Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport is pleased to update the public on the ongoing progress of the Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Reconstruction Project (MHWCRP), a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and connectivity between the Capital and the West to Southwestern part of the island. 1. WEST COAST ROAD Trinidad-based firm NAMALCO Inc. has been awarded the contract for the West Coast Road reconstruction project. Currently, the focus is on retaining wall construction and roadway maintenance spanning from the Anse La Raye Bridge to Canaries.    2. ANSE LA RAYE BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION O.B. Sadoo Engineering Services has been entrusted with the crucial task of reconstructing the Anse La Raye Bridge. Demolition works have commenced in the bridge's vicinity, with steel fabrications for a temporary bypass bridge being assembled on-site.    3.  THE MILLENNIUM HIGHWAY TO CUL DE SAC ROUNDABOUT C.O. Williams Construction Ltd. is advancing the Millennium Highway component of the project. The current emphasis is on the construction of the Cul de Sac Roundabout, sidewalks, and structural works. Paving works are slated to commence following the completion of these key elements. Single lane closures may also be experienced while works also continue along sections of the Millennium Highway. The Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport emphasizes the importance of safety for both motorists and pedestrians in the vicinity of the project sites. Extreme caution is advised, and all are urged to adhere to the associated signs, signals, and cautionary devices in place. The MHWCRP is a vital investment in Saint Lucia's infrastructure, and the Department expresses gratitude for the public's cooperation and understanding during these crucial developments.

The Building Resilience for Adaptation to Climate Change and Climate Variability in Agriculture in Saint Lucia (BRACCVAS) project is actively addressing the escalating vulnerabilities in the agriculture sector through an ongoing analysis aimed at mapping challenges across Saint Lucia. This initiative seeks to enhance resilience and effectively combat climate change, with a specific focus on Geographic Information Services within the agriculture sector.

In today’s headlines: The Minister for Justice and National Security aims to strengthen national security measures in 2024, and the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers 2023 comes to an official end. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The following is an audio statement by Director of Consumer Affairs, Mrs. Wendy Frederick . . . The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs wishes to inform the general public that Saint Lucia's sugar suppliers have registered some difficulty in meeting the usual demand for the commodity. Unfavorable weather patterns led to poor crop yields and lower production quality, which resulted in generally low stock levels within the region. The Department of Consumer Affairs is currently in the process of securing shipments from alternative suppliers with a shipment expected as early as next week (Jan. 22 to 28). The public is assured that measures have already been put in place to lessen the impact of any future shortages. Until then, consumers are encouraged to carefully manage their personal stock.

In the headlines: The Minister for Agriculture presents an overview of the sector’ s accomplishments and challenges in 2023; and The St. Lucia Bureau of Standards launches an academic course on Quality for Organizational Effectiveness. For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

154th Session of the Executive Board of the World Health Organization Statement on Taiwan’s Participation in the World Health Organization (WHO)   In November 2023, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that threats to health are increasing. No country or institution can address the challenges alone. We need collective and coordinated action. The director-general’s statement underscores the importance of public health stakeholders worldwide, including Taiwan, working together to counter the next health emergency.   Taiwan has proven itself to be a valuable partner. It has supported WHO’s Triple Billion targets and health-related SDGs and contributed to the global fight against communicable and non- communicable diseases (NCDs). Therefore, Saint Lucia calls on the World Health Organization to include Taiwan in all technical meetings, activities, and mechanisms and invite Taiwan to participate in the World Health Assembly as an observer.   Taiwan has always been vigilant in its approach toward NCD prevention and management. It has successfully implemented a range of associated programs, including initiatives focusing on cancer prevention and screening, education and action on tobacco use, and metabolic syndrome diagnosis. For many years, Taiwan has also collaborated with its diplomatic allies and partners around the world to improve the capacity of local primary healthcare and medical services. Among other things, this has involved training physicians and medical workers, establishing and updating medical information systems, creating emergency response systems, and implementing projects that focus on NCD prevention. Taiwan has amply demonstrated that it is ready, willing, and able to work with WHO in strengthening the global network to combat NCDs.   Taiwan is fully committed to realizing UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for people of all ages.   For many years, Taiwan has collaborated with its diplomatic allies and partners around the world to improve the health of women, pregnant women, and newborns. Its long-term projects have strengthened medical information and care functions at medical institutions and facilitated the training of physicians and medical professionals.       During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan’s advanced public health system, well-trained epidemic prevention personnel, and comprehensive, cutting-edge disease surveillance, investigation, and analysis system helped contain and slow the spread of the virus. The comprehensive response model established by Taiwan facilitates advance deployment and early response in the event of an epidemic.   Based on the lessons learned from combating COVID-19 and other communicable diseases, Taiwan recognizes the vital role of sharing genetic sequencing information. In order to implement effective pandemic preparedness and response measures, all stakeholders, including Taiwan, must participate in the global information-sharing network. With its advanced technology and healthcare expertise, Taiwan is eager and able to make a global contribution. We urge World Health Organization (WHO) to include Taiwan in all health emergency-related meetings and mechanisms.   Over seventy (76) years, WHO has worked with the global community to address public health emergencies. However, in today’s ever-evolving landscape, we find ourselves confronting an increasing number of health threats. To effectively tackle these challenges, it is critically important that we foster inclusiveness and promote global cooperation. We urge World Health Assembly (WHA) to include Taiwan in all technical meetings, activities, and mechanisms, as well as invite Taiwan to participate in the WHA as an observer.

In the headlines:The Inland Revenue Department has unveiled significant changes in the filing of income tax returns; and A mushroom workshop is held, targeted at vulnerable young males. For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: A bill is soon to be introduced in Parliament which will radically transform the operational landscape of the local tourism Industry; and The Chief Medical Officer, details the diverse health challenges the nation confronted in 2023. For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Tourism officials forecast major developments in the tourism sector for the year 2024; and the Early Childhood Services Unit within the Ministry of Education launches a new TV series aimed at strengthening parent-child relationships. For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The University of Vermont pays a courtesy call to the Minister for Commerce, Hon. Emma Hippolyte; and the OECS Conducts A Successful Tourism Stakeholder Engagement. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Health Issue a reminder to parents of the latest health guidelines as the new school term begins, and; The Ministry of Equity, initiates the first phase of its Mentorship Programme, under the Crime and Violence Interruption Programme (CVIP). For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

Peter and Company Distribution is playing its part by providing assistance to the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in their commitment to public health promotion. The local distribution company donated hand sanitizers to the Ministry, in hopes that the gesture will encourage and renew vigilance following the recent global pandemic.

In today's headlines: The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia has called on all Saint Lucians to recognize that working together as one nation is the only way for Saint Lucia to obtain meaningful, and sustainable development and; The deadline for applications to the Income Support Programme (ISP) via the Safety Nets for Vulnerable Populations Affected by the Coronavirus Project has been extended. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In November, Health officials in St. Lucia participated in a health surveillance system rapid assessment exercise, through a one-day workshop. The workshop is one of many put on within the region, as PAHO continues to monitor adverse events that may occur following immunization. The session will serve to enhance surveillance of the region’s vaccination systems.

In preparation for the new school term, January-March 2024, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs takes this opportunity to remind parents to be vigilant and stay updated with the latest health information and guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health, educational institutions and other government authorities to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases. Presently, we have noted an increase in gastroenteritis and respiratory cases. It is critical that we take measures to prevent the spread of these infections. To do this, you must: 1.   Ensure that your child has hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and a bottle of hand soap when attending school. Involve your child in the process to instill a sense of responsibility and ownership. 2.   Encourage your child to get sufficient sleep, eat nutritious meals, practice good oral hygiene, and get enough physical activity to keep their bodies healthy. 3.   Provide a daily supply of water so that your child remains hydrated. When preparing lunch bags, limit packaged snacks and sugar sweetened beverages. Make use of seasonal fruits and vegetables to encourage healthier eating habits. 4.   Utilize infection prevention and control methods such as: ·      Encouraging frequent hand washing before and after eating, using the washroom and playing outside, to help prevent the spread of germs and viruses. ·      Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting surfaces, and limit the sharing of personal belongings. ·      Teaching your child to cough and sneeze in their elbows or into a tissue. 5.   If your child develops symptoms including coughing, runny nose, sore throat, fever, vomiting or diarrhea, seek medical care and do not send the child to school until the symptoms have resolved. Reinforce the idea that those measures are in place to protect their health and the well-being of others. 6. Ensure that all medication provided to your child is given as prescribed and follow the advice of your medical professional. As the new school term commences, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs would like to wish parents/guardians, principals, teachers, care givers, auxiliary staff and students a happy, prosperous and productive new year.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, through its processes of disease surveillance, has noted an increase in the number of individuals presenting at health care facilities with symptoms of gastroenteritis. In comparison to the previous week, a 14% increase in cases has been recorded. It has also been observed that children have been the most affected, as compared to adults in previous weeks. Most of the affected individuals experience sudden onset vomiting and diarrhea, which usually resolve with treatment of the symptoms. Acute gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and the intestines and can be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, chemicals or medications. Symptoms of gastroenteritis include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, headache or muscle aches. The very contagious Norovirus also referred to as the “stomach flu” most prevalent during the winter season has been circulating and has been the cause of many cases of gastroenteritis globally. The public is reminded to remain mindful of the following measures to avoid contracting and spreading gastroenteritis: • Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, especially after vomiting, after a bowel movement and before handling food; • Do not prepare meals for others if you are vomiting or have diarrhea; • Do not eat undercooked foods; • Disinfect contaminated surfaces and objects frequently to eliminate the virus/bacteria; • If you are sick, avoid going to work/school until 24 hours after your symptoms have passed. If you have symptoms of gastroenteritis, please seek medical care at your nearest Wellness Centre. You may be asked to produce a stool sample. The Ministry also wishes to remind the public that we are currently in the flu season, and persons may experience respiratory symptoms. To date, both respiratory syncytial virus and influenza type A have been isolated. The public is encouraged to help stop the spread of respiratory illnesses by: • Maintaining proper hand hygiene; • Washing hands thoroughly after coughing or sneezing; • Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing; • Wearing a mask where possible in crowded places; • Disinfecting contaminated surfaces and objects frequently to eliminate the virus/bacteria; • Not attending work or sending sick children to school or day care centres until symptoms have passed; • Avoiding contact with people at higher risk of contracting severe illness such as infants, older people and those who are immunocompromised until your symptoms have passed; • Consulting a healthcare professional if your flu like symptoms linger or worsens. Let us work collectively during this festive season to prevent further increases in cases. Let us work to safeguard our health. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Elderly affairs wishes all citizens a safe and enjoyable season and a productive 2024.

Relocation of Services from the Castries Wellness Centre The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs informs the public of the continued closure of Castries Wellness Centre from Tuesday 19 December, 2023. This closure is necessary as the Ministry seeks to ensure a healthy environment for clients and staff.   In an effort to ensure that quality healthcare services remain available to the public, services which were offered at the Castries Wellness Centre have been redirected as follows:   Medical Clinics and all Primary Health Care Clinics including Antenatal and Child Health clinics, dressings and pap smears, among others, have been redirected to the La Clery Wellness Centre. Clinic days remain the same as were previously conducted at the Castries Wellness Centre, that is from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. In addition, the Medical Clinic is available on Saturday from 8:00 am – 12:00 p.m.   The Dermatology Clinic has been redirected to the Gros Islet Polyclinic. The Podiatry Clinic, Obstetrics/Gynecology Clinic and Phlebotomy Service can be accessed at the Entrepot Wellness Centre. The Medical Internist Clinic will be available at the Grande Riviere Wellness Centre, Monchy Wellness Centre and the Gros Islet Polyclinic.   The Diabetic Retinopathy Clinic and Colposcopy services will remain unavailable at this time, and the Ministry will inform the public of the resumption of these services in a subsequent communication.   Clients are urged to visit the appropriate Wellness Centre for healthcare services, and to utilize their nearest community Wellness Centre for care in order to preserve or improve their health.   The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs apologizes for any inconvenience that these changes may cause, and thanks the public for its cooperation as we strive to resolve the situation. For further information, please contact the Community Health Services Unit at telephone number 468-5321, 468-5381 or 4685383.     SERVICE NEW LOCATION SCHEDULED DAYS Medical Clinic La Clery Wellness Centre Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Primary Health services including: ·       Antenatal clinic ·       Child Health clinic ·       Family Planning ·       Dressings ·       Pap Smear La Clery Wellness Centre Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Ciceron Wellness Centre Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Dermatology Clinic Gros Islet Polyclinic Wednesdays, except the 3rd Wednesday each month. Podiatry Clinic Entrepot Wellness Centre 3rd Wednesday and 4th Friday each month Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic Entrepot Wellness Centre 4th Monday and 3rd Friday each month Phlebotomy Services Entrepot Wellness Centre Wednesday and Thursday, except the 3rd Wednesday each month Medical Internist Clinic Gros Islet Polyclinic 2nd and 4th Monday each month Medical Internist Clinic Grand Riviere Wellness Centre 1st Friday each month Medical Internist Clinic Monchy Wellness Centre 1st Tuesday each month Pharmacy Services La Clery Wellness Centre Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  

In today’s headlines: Leaders from Community Based Organizations in Babonneau and Gros-Islet benefit from a comprehensive capacity-building training exercise, and the OECS launches a project aimed at deepening regional integration. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Ministry of Health is providing food safety tips for a healthy festive season and; The National Youth Awards recognize a multitude of young go-getters. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Ministry of Equity strengthens Social Protection Systems and; ECTEL Welcomes a New Chairperson. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Central Statistics Office has organized a two-week regional training workshop. The overall objective of this workshop is to train statisticians and experts in statistical computing from the Bahamas and Saint Lucia in the use of the REDATAM software for online dissemination of census and survey microdata.

In the headlines: The Constituency of Gros Islet hosts a Groundbreaking for the Development of the Gros Islet Waterfront and; Earlier this week, the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers saw the first participating boat reaching Saint Lucian shores. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

During the festive season, people usually purchase and consume more foods than usual. The best way to ensure that food is safe for consumption is by handling, preparing and storing in a way that will prevent food borne illness. Consequently, The Ministry of Health Wellness and Elderly Affairs would like to take the opportunity to remind the public of the following food safety tips:  Examine all foods carefully prior to purchase, check for damages and expiration dates.  Do not purchase canned foods that are unlabeled, dented, leaking, bulging, or rusted.  Keep food out of the “danger zone.” Germs can grow rapidly in the danger zone between 40°F (4oC) and 140°F (60oC). After food is prepared, keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. These foods must not be stored at atmospheric temperature.  When reheating food ensure that it is steaming hot all the way through, at least 165oF or 75oC, or bring to a rolling boil.  When large portions of foods are cooked in advance, divide into smaller portions or in shallow containers, then cover and place in the fridge or freezer. Make sure there is good air circulation around the containers.  When handling foods such as raw meat, chicken, other poultry products, and seafood, ensure that it is separated from cooked or ready to eat foods such as bread, fruits and vegetables.  Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and ready to eat foods.  Use separate utensils for serving different dishes especially when serving foods with a potential to cause allergic reactions. Sir Stanislaus James Building Waterfront, Castries Saint Lucia, West Indies Communications on this subject should be addressed to: Permanent Secretary  Before preparing foods and between handling raw meat or raw chicken, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry thoroughly.  When purchasing local meat products from butchers look for the INSPECTED & PASSED stamp which indicates that the meat has been inspected for wholesomeness by officers of the Environmental Health Division. The Department of Environmental Health would like to encourage persons to follow these food safety measures as you look forward to having an enjoyable season.

The Government of Saint Lucia has partnered with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to strengthen its social protection systems to better respond to the challenges posed by climate change and natural hazards. The Government and WFP recently signed an agreement to improve institutional capacity to deliver assistance to the most vulnerable people by linking social protection systems to pay-outs made by the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF SPC). 

In the headlines: Cabinet approves a package of benefits from diverse sectors, and the Security Interests in Moveable Properties (Collateral) Registry by the OECS Regional Tourism Competitiveness Project is launched. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Government plans to address noise concerns in the north of the island; and Saint Lucia recognizes World AIDS Day. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, attends COP28 in Dubai, and the Customs and Excise department eases festive season burdens for citizens. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Oceania Vista’s arrival to Saint Lucia earlier this week marked the 6th inaugural cruise ship call to the island; and a resolution paving the way for the renovation of schools damaged by Tropical Storm Bret, has been passed. For details on these and other government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

This year, 2023, marks the 35th commemoration of “World AIDS Day” with the chosen theme “Let Communities Lead”. Saint Lucia documented its first known case of HIV in 1985. Back then HIV/AIDS were highly stigmatized and many persons living with HIV and their families’ experienced discrimination. Unfortunately, today, stigma and discrimination both still affect persons living with HIV and the communities who have a higher risk of acquiring HIV. HIV has no face, race, color or sex. That person with HIV could be your mother, father, brother, sister, daughter, son, friend, spouse or partner. As a nation, we have transitioned from not having any medication to managing HIV, to anti-retroviral therapy, that is, HIV treatment; available and free of cost to the patient. A screening test, 15 minutes, can help you understand whether you may have HIV, and that test can be confirmed. If you have multiple sexual partners and are engaging in unprotected sex or have an HIV positive sexual partner, you can protect yourself and reduce your risk of getting HIV by taking 1 pill a day called PrEP – pre-exposure prophylaxis. The amount of virus in your body can be measured with a single lab test, a viral load, performed at our own Ezra Long Laboratory. In 2023, the early 21st century, no one should be dying as a result of AIDS in Saint Lucia. In 2022, globally, 630,000 persons died from AIDS related illnesses. From January 2023 until the end of September, 15 persons have died as a result of AIDS related illnesses in-country. HIV is a chronic disease and it requires anti-retroviral therapy treatment for effective management. Of the 294 persons actively collecting HIV medication, 46% are virally suppressed. We can do better. Persons have been dying from AIDS related illnesses because they have been diagnosed at a late stage in the disease or they have not accepted that they have the HIV infection. The blunt facts about HIV are as follows: ·       HIV is not a myth; it still exists; ·       There is no cure for HIV (yet); ·       If you are sexually active, you are at risk for getting HIV; ·       With consistent, daily medication you can live well and live a long life with HIV; ·       To get diagnosed early, you need to take the test; Let this day, December 1st, 2023 put HIV first and foremost in your mind. Have a frank conversation with your healthcare provider. Find out what are your options? ·       Where to get screened for HIV ·       How to prevent getting the HIV infection ·       And, if you have HIV, how you can live a long, healthy life No one should be dying from AIDS. Do not let yourself become another AIDS statistic in Saint Lucia. For more information, please contact the Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinic at the Castries Wellness Center: 468-8886 or 8887 and at the Vieux Fort Wellness Center: 468-7985 or 7986.

In the headlines: The Immigration Department has relocated to a new office and the Minister of Equity commissions an interactive two-day media training exercise. For details on these and other government developments, visit www.govt.lc.

In the headlines: The Ministry of Equity and Partners hosts a "Parent Enrichment" programme and; The Caribbean Development Bank gets set to lobby for climate financing at COP28. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Rotary Club of Gros-Islet, in collaboration with the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment, is pleased to announce the commencement of a Parent Enrichment  Programme in the northern town of Gros-Islet. The programme started off on November 21, 2023, at the Gros-Islet Human Resource Centre. The training will be held every Tuesday and  Thursday for the next three weeks, from 5 PM to 7 PM. The participants, meticulously identified by the Social Transformation Officers (STO), Welfare Officer, and Family Case Worker, represent a diverse group committed to enhancing their parenting skills

In the headlines: The Twenty-Sixth Meeting of the Council for National Security and Law Enforcement recently took place in Saint Lucia; and, The FRC Celebrate the Successes of Creole Heritage Month 2023 For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The US Government has outlined concrete measures to combat the trafficking of illegal firearms into the island, and Mr. Robert Innocent has been appointed as Special Prosecutor. For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc.

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Nov. 23, 2023) In the headlines: The transition from data collection to data processing has commenced for the National Population and Housing Census, and the Environmental Health Department focuses on keeping the mosquito population at a minimum. For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc.

Globally, November 19 is acknowledged as the International Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse, while November 20 is celebrated as International Children’s Day. The momentous days both aim to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children, including their rights to education, healthcare, and protection from abuse. In honor of these events, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment launched the Sidewalk Chalk Activities at the Gros Islet Primary, Vieux Fort Primary, and Beanfield Secondary Schools. The Division of Human Services carried out this initiative. The Community Services Unit also organized an island-wide Self-Awareness Day for children participating in the Community After-School Program (CASP).

The OECS Regional Health Project, funded by the World Bank continues its mandate to ensure the improvement of health facilities and lab capacity in Saint Lucia by providing support to the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs.  Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XI2dW3pXjXo&t=3s

In the headlines: ARC 2023 is launched, and; Saint Lucian men and their Caribbean counterparts are challenged to live to their full potential to positively impact the world. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Saint Lucia recognizes Diabetes Awareness month, and vulnerable families are empowered through education. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc

On the occasion of International Men’s Day observed annually on November 19, Saint Lucian men and their counterparts in the Caribbean have been left with an enthralling challenge to live up to their full potential and do more to positively impact the world. The latest challenge has come from Minister for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment Hon. Joachim Henry, who led Saint Lucia’s delegation and was the keynote speaker at the first-ever hosting of the International Men's Day Regional Conference convened in Grenada from November 15 – 19, 2023, Minister Henry told his audience that it was not a curse that statically men died before their spouses. That fact he said should galvanize men in seeing themselves as the bridge in helping to set their children and families on an economically successful path towards the creation of generational wealth, thus mitigating the effects of colonization and slavery. Minister Henry also appealed to men to no longer remain passive observers within the family and society but to instead rise to the occasion, as now more than ever, the world needed leaders of good faith and character. He called upon men in attendance at the inaugural regional conference to work side by side with their female counterparts, in helping to stem the tide and root out the prevailing attitude of juvenile delinquency and outright disregard for authority plaguing Caribbean societies. Minister Henry was accompanied by Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary, Celia Charles-Arthur, Stephen Edward, Family Case Worker of the Division of Human Services and Family Affairs, and Reynel Stephen, Coordinator of the Boys Matter Programme, of the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF). International Men’s Day is dedicated to men and their contributions to society. The observance seeks to celebrate the success and progress made by men in economic, social, cultural, and political spheres while highlighting their contributions to family, institutions, and society at large.

The Central Statistics Office provided a recent update on the National Population and Housing Census 2022. After numerous setbacks and delays on the project, the data collection process is near completion and data processing has now begun.

In the headlines: UNESCO and the Department of Culture collaborate to preserve cultural diversity, and the Ministry of Agriculture officially transfers management of a Banana Ripening Facility to the National Fair Trade Organization.

In the headlines: the British High Commission’s solid commitment to partnership with Saint Lucia is highlighted; and the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia attends the CARICOM-Saudi Summit. For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Ministry of Education continues to raise awareness and foster Acceptance of Students with Special Education needs, and; Local artisans engage in bamboo craft design training. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Attention has been brought to Dennery South as the Agriculture Ministry collaborates with the Taiwan Technical Mission under the Seven Crops Project to introduce new technologies and crop varieties to local farmers.

A General Technical Cooperation agreement between the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF)is set to usher in a new era of economic and social development, offering opportunities for the agriculture sector.

In the headlines: Preparations for the 2023/2024 budget are underway, and the Ministry of Equity launches a new initiative to encourage the nation’s elderly to take up golf. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: A mock Parliamentary exercise, forms part of the Caribbean Women in Leadership Training, and; Education officials collaborate to transform the education system.  For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health during the month of October received generous donations of medical supplies from the Rotary Club of Lamentin Martinique. The donations in sum of 70 thousand plus Euros were facilitated by the Rotary Club of St. Lucia, who is also a frequent donor to the island’s health agency.

In the headlines: Mr. Cletus Springer has been appointed as the Honorary Consul of Japan in Saint Lucia, and Saint Lucia will be taking part in the alternative sport of drag racing later this month. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment launched a new initiative to encourage the nation’s older persons to take up golf as a way to improve their physical and mental health. The ‘Golf for Older Persons’ initiative is a collaboration between the Marian Home, HelpAge St. Lucia, and the Sandals Foundation. The aim is to provide older persons access to a golf course, equipment, and coaching and create a supportive and friendly environment while enjoying the outdoors. On October 31, 2023, all suited in their golf attire, older persons embarked on their one-hour activity at the Sandals Golf Club in Cap Estate, Gros Islet. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-equity-rolls-out-golf-for-older-persons-initiative Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zMSOhClYXA

The formulation of the FSRA's strategic plan was a thorough and cooperative endeavor, guided by established principles in the realm of strategic planning. The strategic plan is a forward-thinking yet pragmatic roadmap for the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). The primary goal is to ensure that this plan remains dedicated to serving the public interest by upholding the integrity and stability of the financial services industry. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/frsa-has-new-strategic-plan Watch video statement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76dtL7FKenM

In today’s headlines: Digitalization of small enterprises featured prominently at this years Taiwan Saint Lucia Trade show and; The Tourism Advisory Council work towards Enhancing the Visitor Experience. For details on these and more, visit www.govt.lc

In today’s headlines: The Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards and the British Standards Institute steer the development of an international standard against modern slavery; and the Department of Education activates the Education Trust Fund. For details on these and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: ParlAmericas and the Parliament of Saint Lucia, hold a multi-stakeholder Dialogue on Gender Equality and Sustainable Development and; Vulnerable Families benefit from training in Gardening For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: the First-Generation Scholarship Programme is being hailed as a major achievement; and the Government of Saint Lucia and the Embassy of the Republic of China Taiwan sign a Treaty of Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Faux A Chaud residents continue to benefit from a series of theoretical and practical training geared at improving the economic empowerment of parents enrolled in the Community After School Backyard Kitchen Garden Program. The empowerment comes from months of agricultural training that saw participants learning crop cultivation techniques, resulting in the eventual harvesting of fresh produce that their households will consume.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Health facilitates a COVID-19 After-Action Review; and the Ministry of Agriculture analyzes strategies to improve operations at the National Agriculture Diagnostic Facility. For details on these stores and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs through routine surveillance has noted an increase in the number of individuals presenting with flu-like symptoms. The increase is observed both in visits to the emergency departments and hospital admissions. This is particularly true for children less than 5 years of age. Our Surveillance systems have been able to identify Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Influenza type A as the two most common viral infections at this time. We have also noted that RSV has been identified in the majority of samples tested. RSV is a highly infectious and common respiratory infection which mostly affects young children but can also occur in adults. Although RSV symptoms are usually mild, some people are at a higher risk for developing more severe illness and hospitalization especially: ·       Infants (0 – 12 months) ·       older persons (65 years of age or older) ·       individuals who are immunocompromised ·       individuals with chronic heart or lung disease Similar to other respiratory viruses, symptoms of RSV infection include runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, decreased appetite, and wheezing. In very young infants, the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties. Similar to other respiratory viruses, RSV is spread through: ·       large droplets when someone coughs or sneezes ·       touching a surface or object that has been contaminated with the virus and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. There are currently no vaccines available for RSV in Saint Lucia. The public is encouraged to stop the spread of respiratory illnesses by: ·       maintaining proper hand hygiene, ·       covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, ·       washing hands thoroughly after coughing or sneezing, ·       wearing a mask where possible in crowded places, ·       avoiding sharing cups and utensils, ·       avoiding close contact with others who are sick, ·       cleaning surfaces and objects such as toys using a household detergent, especially if they have been sneezed upon ·       not attending work or sending sick children to school or daycare centers until they are better, ·       avoiding contact with people at higher risk of severe illness such as infants, older people and those who are immunocompromised until you feel better, ·       consulting a healthcare professional if flu-like symptoms linger or worsen. The Ministry of Health would also like to remind the general public that we are presently in the flu season which runs from October to March and as such, would like to encourage everyone to take the necessary measures to avoid getting infected. The Ministry of Health is thankful for your usual cooperation in helping keep Saint Lucia safe and healthy For further information, contact the Epidemiology Unit at 468 5325 or 468 5326.

In today’s headlines: Energy Awareness Month begins and Education District Three stages the 2023 Mathematics Symposium. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

The First-Generation Scholarship Programme is being hailed as one of the major achievements under the mantra of the Ministry of Education. The campaign, launched several years ago, has done much to shape the new image of education on the island. Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYynQ4BYzJ8

The Government of Saint Lucia introduced the Health and Citizen Security Levy (The Levy) to raise additional revenue to finance health and security projects for the benefit of Saint Lucians and visitors to our island. The revenue from the Health and Citizen Security Levy will go toward the maintenance of police stations around the island, providing additional tools and equipment for law enforcement officers; and will also fund the implementation of the government’s Universal Health Care (UHC) project to make public health care more affordable and accessible for the average Saint Lucian. Read more: Health and Citizen Security Levy is working in your interest: https://www.govt.lc/news/health-and-citizen-security-levy-is-working-in-your-interest Implementation of the Health and Citizen Security Levy: https://www.govt.lc/news/implementation-of-the-health-and-citizen-security-levy Health and Security Levy zero-rated on services until Oct. 2: https://www.govt.lc/news/health-and-security-levy-zero-rated-on-services-until-oct-2 IRD to implement health and citizen security levy: https://www.govt.lc/news/ird-to-implement-health-and-citizen-security-levy

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development intensify Fusarium Wilt awareness activities; and competitive Bill Fishing returns to Saint Lucia. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The COVID-19 Steering Committee along with other stakeholders and officials from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), gathered at the Cocoa Palm Hotel on Oct. 27, for a five-day COVID-19 After Action Review. The review aimed to analyze the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic in order to strengthen preparation for future pandemics. Read press release: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-paho-undertake-covid-19-review Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jheB5_QV5nQ

In the headlines: The Ambassador Designate for Poland presents his Credentials in Saint Lucia, and Government's First-Generation Scholarship programme is into its second year. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Blueprints for Gender Equality Project  holds a community engagement session and; The IICA Delegation in Saint Lucia host a 40-Year Anniversary and Accountability Seminar. For details on these and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development continues to prioritize capacity building as they collaborate with Massy Stores and the Taiwan Technical Mission to host a training program on receiving and dispatching containers

In the headlines: Traffic arrangements for Jounen Kweyol have been finalized and; Intersec school sports competition is set to undergo a transformation. For details on these and more, visit www.govt.lc

Education District Three is seeking new ways to inspire students’ interest and progress in mathematics with the staging of the 2023 edition of its Mathematics Symposium.

In the headlines: The sod turning ceremony for the the Northern Divisional Police Headquarters Project is held and; Tourism Ambassadors are soon to be introduced as an added feature of the Cruise Tourism Product For details on these and more, visit www.govt.lc

Government's First-Generation Scholarship programme is into its second year with another fifty scholarships provided to Saint Lucians in a joint effort between the Ministry of Education and Monroe College. 

The TR4 Awareness Activities continue as the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development partners with telecommunications companies Digicel and Flow to support TR4 awareness activities.

Participants of the Millennium Heights Medical Complex –MHMC town hall meeting hosted at the Gros Islet Human Resource Development Centre on Tuesday 17th October,  expressed much enthusiasm as they engaged management of the MHMC in discussion.

In the headlines: The Castries Central Library encourages kweyol orthography and speech and; The Taiwan Embassy has hosted an information session for students desiring to study in Taiwan.  For details on these and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: a new housing model could spell economic relief for the most vulnerable, and the National Laboratory Policy, Legislation and Regulations are reviewed. For details on these and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Dugard Combined School honoured students who have excelled in various classes and in sport when the Institution hosted an award ceremony at the school’s premises in Choiseul recently to the theme; Igniting Young minds, Making a Global Impact.

In an exceptional collaborative endeavour, Procasur and The Farmers' Organizations for Africa, Caribbean, and Pacific (FO4ACP) have initiated the "Learning Route” program, this, as the agriculture ministry continues to revamp and diversify rural technical advisory services. Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcUggCckHdA

In a vibrant celebration of World Food Day 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture, supported by the Taiwan Technical Mission hosted a Cocoa Festival in the picturesque town of Soufriere. Cocoa enthusiasts and the wider public gathered to celebrate the country's rich cocoa heritage through a wide array of activities, including live cooking demonstrations, and local musical entertainment. Visitors had the opportunity to sample and purchase various cocoa-based products, from exquisite chocolates to cocoa-infused culinary delights. Read More: https://moaslu.govt.lc/cocoa-festival/

In recognition of its 40-year anniversary, the IICA Delegation in Saint Lucia hosted a 40-Year Anniversary and Accountability Seminar. Watch video report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5uC1fSbPUs

In the headlines: the ministry of equity assists in the delivery of a new duplex home for the less fortunate, and the Forensic Services Unit is equipped with cutting-edge firearms analysis capabilities. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization hosted a half-day Inter-Ministerial Climate Change and Health workshop on Oct. 16, at the Bay Gardens Hotel. Monday’s workshop brought together a diverse group of stakeholders representing key organizations from the public and private sectors, with the aim of enhancing the coordination and stakeholder engagement for the integration of health concerns into climate change planning and implementation. Read full article: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-hosts-inter-ministerial-climate-change-and-health-workshop Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oi1SZseSEDg

The Comfort Bay Senior Citizens Home is the recipient of a $1,500 donation by the Civil Service Association (CSA) in observance of Caribbean Public Service and Solidarity Day, observed annually on Oct. 4. Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLj38IEVPSE Read full article: https://www.govt.lc/news/csa-donates-to-comfort-bay-senior-citizens-home

The Ministry of Agriculture convenes a workshop to conduct a comprehensive ginger value-chain assessment, and Fèsten Tanbou comes to Belle Vue, Vieux Fort. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: the Monsignor Patrick Folk Research Centre engages the younger generation in celebrating Saint Lucia’s rich cultural heritage, and students commend the 2023 Summer Employment Programme. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, attends the Canada-CARICOM Summit, and the Government of Saint Lucia expands its post-COVID-19 feeding programme. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: A progress Report is given concerning the Government’s Loan grant facility for small businesses and; The theme for this years World Standards Day 2023 is Shared Vision for a Better World,"  For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Social Information Systems make an impact on Social Service Delivery in Saint Lucia and; The Government of Saint Lucia has hosted the Caribbean Center of Excellence Regional Leadership Summit. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: West Coast Sea users are being urged to follow guidelines for use of the coastal marine area and; Saint Lucia is triumphant at the Windward Islands super 50 cup. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

October is a month of many observances in St Lucia and Arthritis Awareness is one of them. World Arthritis Day (WAD), was established in 1996 and is held annually on October 12th. The purpose of this day is to bring awareness to this disease, highlighting its impact and ways of prevention and management. The theme for this year is, ‘Living with an RMD (rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease) At All Stages of Life’. Arthritis is a non-communicable, often chronic and sometimes degenerative disease that impacts quality of life, sometimes rendering persons incapable of normal movement and leading to disability. The signs of arthritis include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, redness, warmth and loss of mobility/function. Most people think all arthritis is the same, but there are over 100 types of arthritis known. A large part of the world’s population is affected by this disease and St. Lucia is no different. In the US between 2016-2018 it was estimated that about 24% of the population had been diagnosed with some type of arthritis. That is to say for every 4 persons 1 was diagnosed with arthritis. Arthritis accounts for one of the largest causes of disability worldwide and poses a heavy burden on our society. We know that almost everyone has heard of or experienced arthritis in some form or another. However, the understanding of the different types and how management and complications can vary, may not be well known to most. The most commonly known types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (about 530 million people worldwide in 2019) and rheumatoid arthritis (about 18 million). However, there are also important causes like lupus, gout, fibromyalgia, sexually transmitted infections, spondyloarthritis and juvenile arthritis among others. The treatment of each varies across the board. While arthritis mostly affects persons older than 55, as well as women, children can also get arthritis; and some causes like Gout, are more common in men. As with most NCDs there are preventable and non-preventable risk factors. For arthritis, the preventable ones include: not smoking, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, little or no alcohol consumption, avoiding joint injuries, safe sex practices. This month, SLALA will begin arthritis awareness activities with a church service at the St. Benedict Parish on Morne Fortune at 8:30am. Arthritis will be the focus of the SLMDA talk show HealthWise on Wednesday 11th October. The SLALA will also be sharing facts about arthritis and its management on its Facebook and Instagram pages. On World Arthritis Day, Thursday 12th October, we hope you would join us in raising awareness by wearing something blue, wherever you are. And finally, on Thursday October 19th and 26th, we invite you to Get Moving for Arthritis - Sneaker Thursdays by wearing your sneakers, along with something blue. You can share your photos or videos of you moving with us by using the hashtags #wad, #wearblueforarthritis and #getmoving on our social media pages. Exercise and movement are an integral part of preventing and treating arthritis, so we hope you will join us. This is also part of our own contribution to the Ministry of Health’s Let’s Move St Lucia Campaign. Please follow SLALA on Facebook and Instagram for more details on the month’s activities and also information on arthritis throughout the month. Help us make arthritis more visible, but less critical by becoming more physical. Don’t forget to wear your blue this Thursday.  Happy World Arthritis Day!

In the headlines: The 2023/2024 Cruise Ship season has commenced and; Saint Lucia Game Fishing Association's International Billfish tournament is set to take place next week. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The new Morne Fortune Vendors facility is open for business and; The Human Capital Resilience Project Mid-Term Review has begun. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

As part of the overarching "Pork and Ginger Value Chain Assessment" initiative, the Ministry in collaboration with FAO has shifted its focus to the Ginger subsector, recently convening a workshop to conduct a comprehensive Ginger Value Chain Assessment. Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAIo4yY-v6I&t=2s

Consultations on a Health National Adaption Plan have commenced here. The Caribbean initiative is being undertaken collaboratively with input from the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, PAHO, the Department of Economic Development and the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center.

In the headlines: The Government of St. Lucia strengthens the way in which money, borrowed for the the country, is being managed and; The Ministry of Health educates the nation on Breast Cancer Awareness. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

As St. Lucia joins the rest of the world in observing Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has begun mounting up several activities with the focus on education and sensitization. 

In the headlines: the Government of Saint Lucia, allocates $26 million to enhance the capacity of the Saint Lucia Fire Service; and the community of La Clery served as the locale for the second Family Wellness Day. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Teachers are recognized through a week of activities, and the Pork and Ginger sub-sectors are brought into focus. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

Students attending secondary schools in District Three and their parents or guardians are now more prepared to face the digital age following a week-long seminar spearheaded by the Saint Joseph's Convent.

In the headlines: The media launch for Saint Lucia Carnival 2024 is held and; The Ministry of Health wellness and Elderly Affairs facilitates snake bite training. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

Globally, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685, 000 deaths in 2020, making it the most prevalent cancer in the world. In Saint Lucia, breast cancer is the number one cause of death in women and also the main cause of premature death in women. Most of these diagnoses are made in women from the age group 45-55years. The risk of breast cancer is increased with increasing age, obesity, harmful use of alcohol, family history of breast cancer, history of radiation exposure, reproductive history (such as age that menstrual periods began and age at first pregnancy), tobacco use and postmenopausal hormone therapy. Approximately half of breast cancers develop in women who have no identifiable breast cancer risk factor other than gender (female) and age (over 40 years).   The symptoms of breast cancer can include: a breast lump or thickening, often without painchange in size, shape or appearance of the breastdimpling, redness, pitting or other changes in the skinchange in nipple appearance or the skin surrounding the nipple (areola)abnormal or bloody fluid from the nipple.   The treatment for breast cancer depends on the subtype of cancer and how much it has spread outside of the breast to lymph nodes (stages II or III) or to other parts of the body (stage IV). The treatment includes surgery to remove the breast tumour, radiation therapy to reduce recurrence risk in the breast and surrounding tissues, medication to kill cancer cells and prevent spread, including hormonal therapies, chemotherapy or targeted biological therapies.   Healthy lifestyles, regular screening and early detection are key in improving the outcome of the breast cancer diagnosis.   The Ministry of Health together with the rest of the world observes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and intensifies public health education to improve awareness among women of the importance of screening, the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and, understand the importance of early detection and treatment. We anticipate that with accurate information more women would consult medical practitioners when breast cancer is first suspected, and before the cancer is advanced. Early diagnosis needs to be linked to effective and timely cancer treatment that requires specialized cancer care. This October, we invite you to join the Ministry of Health in reducing the impact of breast cancer by doing the following: -       Maintain a healthy lifestyle, healthy foods, regular exercise, adequate sleep, reduced stress, reduced alcohol intake and avoid smoking -       Visit your nearest Wellness Centre to access screening -       Learn to perform monthly breast self- exam. Our team at the nearest wellness center or your physician can provide guidance. -       Visit your healthcare provider with any concerns noted -       Encourage the women in your household, work place, place of worship and friends to do the same -       Contact the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs to schedule an education session, breast screening/health fairs for your team -       Participate in “Pink Fridays” Wear Pink every Friday in October or decorate your work stations in pink to raise the awareness and show support to our women, men and families who are affected by Breast Cancer. -       Participate and support Kick for a Cure which is a special event held during the month of October to launch the Veterans Football Championship. Together we can save the lives of our loved ones.   

Good dental hygiene and confident smiles is what the Montero Medical Mission left behind before leaving the island after a one-week visit.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia readies for Creole Heritage Month, and the diplomatic representative from the Republic of Indonesia presents his letters of credence to the Governor General of Saint Lucia. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Substance Abuse Advisory Council Secreteriat is appealing to parents and guardians to increase thier level of vigilance as it relates to new and emerging drug phenomenon and; A triamphant Female Under 14 Volleyball Team returns home. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia has travelled to Grenada for the second Caribbean Heads of Government meeting on Climate Change and the Environment and; Efforts are intensifying to support Saint Lucia's food security agenfa. For more government developments, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Attorney General’s Chambers has announced Saint Lucia’s completion of its 2022 Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing National Risk Assessment and; Saint Lucia’s Robotics team is gearing up to participate in the prestigious First Global Competition. For more government developments, visit www.govt.lc

When a snake bites, time is of the essence. This is one of the reasons that the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture have come together to ensure the establishment of a Centre for Excellence for Snake Bite Education. Staff of Wellness Centres in Region 7 attended the first of many workshops to come, as the Ministry of Health looks towards formalizing the new Centre for Excellence.

On the heels of the recently held OAS/CICAD facilitated, National Training Seminar for the establishment for an Early Warning System for Drug Threats and Trends in Saint Lucia, the Substance Abuse Advisory Council Secretariat is appealing to parents and guardians to increase their level of vigilance 

In the headlines: technical training designed to equip government technocrats in the skill of geographic mapping takes place in Saint Lucia, and the Ambassador Designate of the Kingdom of Norway to Saint Lucia presents her credentials to the Governor General. For more government developments, visit www.govt.lc

In today's headlines: The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia addresses the General Debate of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly and; Productivity Awareness Week October 2023 is slated for the 9th to 13th October.  For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia is pleased to announce the completion of its 2022 Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing National Risk Assessment. Saint Lucia has instituted an aggressive legislative agenda, not only to ensure that our jurisdiction will not be utilized as a conduit to facilitate illicit activity, but also to ensure a high level of compliance with the international standards as laid out by the Financial Action Task Force.

A commencement date has been set for the migration of existing security interests held by financial institutions to the new Security Interest in Movable Properties Registry. The registry will support the Security Interest in Movable Properties Act, passed by Parliament in November 2022 geared at increasing access to finance for Medium, Small, and Micro Enterprises by using their movable assets such as vehicles, equipment, and inventory, as collateral.

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Sports Academy honours two of its own, and cannabis legislation will soon be introduced in Saint Lucia. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Sports Academy has honoured two of its own and; Cannabis legislation will soon be introduced in Saint Lucia. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

The Montero Medical Mission arrived on the island on Saturday, Sep. 16. The team provided services such as cleanings, fillings and extractions, from Sep. 18 to 20.

The capacity of the farmers within the agriculture sector continues to be enhanced as the Ministry of Agriculture teams up with the Taiwan Technical Mission to host a Dragon Fruit Training and Cultivation Workshop.

Efforts are intensifying to support Saint Lucia's food security agenda, providing much-needed relief to farmers grappling with the escalating costs of agricultural and farming inputs.

The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) will celebrate its 10th Anniversary during Productivity Awareness Week from October 9th to 13th 2023. The Theme for this year’s observance is “Journey to Excellence: Leveraging Opportunities for Collective Advancement.” “Productivity Awareness Week is a signature activity of the NCPC. This activity is held annually to highlight and promote issues of productivity and competitiveness affecting Saint Lucia.”   For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/ncpc-to-celebrate-10-years-during-productivity-awareness-week

In the headlines: The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs observes Childhood Cancer Awareness Day, and the World University Service of Canada’s Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean Project has officially handed over a range of pest and disease management equipment to the Extension Services Division of the Ministry of Agriculture. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

The Barbados-based Maria Holder memorial Trust has donated one wheelchair-accessible vehicle to the Ministry of Education to assist special needs children of the Dennery Childhood Development Center

The Barbados-based Maria Holder memorial Trust has donated one wheelchair-accessible vehicle to the Ministry of Education to assist special needs children of the Dennery Childhood Development Center. 

In today's headlines: The Caribbean Business Enabling Environment Reform project comes to Saint Lucia and; The St. Lucian Government has made an impassioned plea to businesses to honour zero rated vat products. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia is the chosen destination for yet another Medical Mission. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs welcomed the Montero Medical Mission on its inaugural visit to the island on the weekend.  

Globally, Cancer is a leading cause of death in children and adolescents. On a national level between 2019 and 2022 we have diagnosed 9 cases of childhood cancer in country. The most common types diagnosed being leukaemia and lymphomas. Unlike cancer in adults, the vast majority of childhood cancers do not have a known cause. Current data suggests a genetic predisposition in about 10% of the cases. Unfortunately, the likelihood of surviving a diagnosis of childhood cancer depends on the country in which the child lives: in high-income more developed countries, more than 80% of children with cancer are cured, but in many low income less developed countries less than 30% are cured. The lower survival rates are due to reduced capacity of the healthcare system which leads to delays in diagnosis, inaccessible or expensive therapy, non- compliance to treatment, death from toxicity (side effects), and relapse. Although very few cancers in children are caused by environmental or lifestyle factors, it is important to ensure optimal health in all children to improve their chances of survival. This includes healthy diets, regular exercise, full vaccination schedules and ensuring a safe low stress environment at home, school and in our communities. Cancer prevention efforts in children should also focus on behaviours that will prevent the child from developing preventable cancer as an adult. When identified early, cancer is more likely to respond to effective treatment and result in a greater probability of survival, less suffering, and often less expensive and less intensive treatment. It is important that parents and family members recognize the symptoms of childhood cancers. Childhood cancer is associated with a range of warning symptoms, such as fever, severe and persistent headaches, bone pain and weight loss, that can be detected by families and by trained primary health-care providers. One of the most effective strategies to reduce the burden of cancer in children and improve outcomes is to focus on a prompt, correct diagnosis followed by effective, evidence-based therapy with tailored supportive care. This includes accurate and timely clinical evaluations, diagnosis, and staging and access to prompt care. Improving access to childhood cancer care, including to essential medicines and technologies, is highly cost effective, feasible and can improve survival in all settings. The Ministry continues to collaborate with external agencies Sick Kids and the French Health authorities to strengthen diagnosis and treatment. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs observes Childhood Cancer Day on Friday September 22nd to educate families, raise awareness and provide support to our children who are affected. Share our health messages and wear yellow or gold clothing on Friday September 22nd in solidarity with our children and families affected. For more information, contact the Bureau of Health Education at telephone number468-5349 or 468-5342.

The Saint Lucia Sports Academy has honoured two of its students for their exemplary performances and achievements locally and regionally in their various sporting disciplines.

In the headlines: the Minister for Sustainable Development delivers a World Ozone Day Address to the nation, and farmers enhanced their skills with a Dragon Fruit Training and Cultivation Workshop. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

As Saint Lucia’s food security remains at the forefront, the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) Sustainable Agriculture in the Caribbean Project has officially handed over a range of pest and disease management equipment to the Extension Services Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development.

In the headlines: Youth parliamentarians sharpen their skills for the upcoming Youth Parliament, and the Government of Saint Lucia implements another post-COVID-19 Income Support Plan. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

Hon. Shawn Edward, Minister for Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology and Vocational Training, delivers an address on the occasion of World Ozone Day. Watch via: NTN channel 122, youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment, facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment

In today's headlines: Creole classes will soon be introduced to the school curriculum; and the Department of Consumer Affairs continues efforts to educate the public on the rights of the consumer. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

“World Patient Safety Day” will be observed on 17 September 2023, under the theme, “Engaging Patients for Patient Safety”. The theme emphasizes the importance of patient involvement in healthcare decisions and processes, as patients, families, and caregivers play a critical role in the safety of healthcare. Patient Safety Day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to create a culture of safety within the healthcare system. On this occasion, the Ministry of Health , Wellness and Elderly Affairs underscores the critical work of its Quality Assurance Unit which plays a vital role in monitoring, evaluating, and improving the quality of health care delivery. The Quality Assurance Unit of the Ministry of Health takes this opportunity to emphasize its commitment to providing the highest standards of care, and this will be achieved through patient engagement, which is central to achieving safer healthcare outcomes. By involving patients in decisions about their health and treatment, we foster an environment of transparency, trust, and collaboration. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the slogan “Elevate the voice of patients!”, is a call to all stakeholders to take action to ensure that patients are involved in policy formulation, are represented in governance structures, are engaged in co-designing safety strategies, and are active partners in their own care. Therefore, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs is committed to providing platforms and opportunities for patients, families, and communities to raise their voices, concerns, expectations, and preferences to advance safety, patient-centeredness, trustworthiness, and equity. The Ministry of Health envisions a healthcare system where patients are informed partners in their care journey. Connecting with the clients whom we serve and empowering them to voice their concerns and preferences, not only enhances the overall patient experience but also plays a pivotal role in improving health services and service delivery. As St. Lucia joins the global healthcare community in commemorating Patient Safety Day, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs encourages everyone to play an active role in ensuring patient safety. By working together, we can ensure that healthcare in St. Lucia maintains the highest standards, providing safe, effective, and compassionate care to all.

A grande event at Constitution Park initiated Caribbean Wellness Day Celebrations for St. Lucia. Caribbean Wellness Day is observed annually around the region on September 9 th .This year’s inaugural activity was hosted through a collaborative effort, which ended with a famers market.

In today's headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia is considering broadening its list of priced-control goods to include sanity towels, napkins and related products and; The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly affairs observe World Suicide Prevention Day 2023.  For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Health gears up for Family Fun Day, and the SSDF partners with EQuIP to provide support for students. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

On September 10th, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, joined with the World Health Organization (WHO) in recognizing and supporting World Suicide Prevention Day, under the theme “Creating Hope Through Action”. This theme has been in use from 2021-2023, as a call for action for stronger decision making practices and an understanding that our actions can inspire hope, and increase measures that prevent suicide. We at the Ministry of Health believe that education plays a big part in promoting suicide prevention. Having adequate knowledge can assist with debunking the myths of suicide, promoting help seeking behaviours and can increase resilience among our people. Suicide is preventable and no one should have to go through life’s struggles alone. Throughout the month of September, our programmes and activities will place heavy focus on suicide survivors, prevention and awareness. Suicide continues to be a serious Public Health concern in St. Lucia impacting men in particular. In 2022, 8 men died by suicide and 4 men to date in 2023. That is far too many. Suicide is preventable and the devastating effects involves not only the immediate family but the community and island by extension. In an attempt to address this Public Health and societal concern, the following strategies are being implemented. • Creating protective environments • Improving access to suicide care • Promoting healthy connections • Teaching coping and problem-solving skills • Identifying and supporting people at risk • Lessening harms and preventing future risk. Access to mental health care has been improved with the integration of mental health services into the primary health care services. In 2019, 28 primary health care personnel were trained in the Mental Health Gap Action Program commonly called the mhGAP. This program is specially designed to build capacity to bridge the gap in mental health services by training health care providers and other community members, to deliver psychosocial services relating to prevention, early detection and treatment to individuals needing such care. Access to mental health care has been improved with the integration of mental health services into the primary health care services. In 2019, 28 primary health care personnel were trained in the Mental Health Gap Action Program commonly called the mhGAP. This program is specially designed to build capacity to bridge the gap in mental health services by training health care providers and other community members, to deliver psychosocial services relating to prevention, early detection and treatment to individuals needing such care. We must promote dialogue surrounding mental health, suicide and suicide ideation. We encourage the various organizations to help highlight the problem of suicide and advocate its prevention. A call goes out to the general public to be educated about suicide prevention, to know the signs and symptoms and the ways we can offer help to others. We implore the media to play their part in the education on suicide prevention and to be more responsible in their reporting of suicides. If we learn about suicide and the signs to look for, we can help save lives and prevent its occurrence. Through our actions we can create hope.

Putting health and wellness at the forefront, the Ministry of Agriculture partners with the Ministry of Health and the Taiwan Technical Mission to host a Farmers Market with a dedicated focus on well-being.

The Substance Abuse Advisory Council Secretariat is this week hosting a seminar on the “Early Warning System in Response to Opioids and New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) in Latin America and the Caribbean”. The seminar is being facilitated through the bilateral support of OAS/CICAD and is taking place from September 12 to September 14, 2023 at the Cocoa Palm Hotel.

In today's headlines: The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, receives a first hand progress report on the ongoing Saint Jude Hospital reconstruction project and; The Ministry of Agriculture reaffirms its commitment to the agro-processing industry. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In today's headlines: Participants of the The Taiwan Youth Ambassador Exchange Programme pay courtesy calls on Government House and Parliament and; The Saint Lucia Fire Service (slfs) reaffirms its commitment to safe service For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health will engage residents in the south on Saturday 16th, through their first ever family fun day activity. The activity forms part of Caribbean Wellness Day observances for 2023 under the theme, “Power through collective action”.

In today's headlines: A week of events is launched in recognition of World Tourism Day and; The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports highlights the Saint Lucian finalist participating in the Commonwealth Youth Awards. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

The Sustainable Honey Production Farmer Field School Program's closing ceremony celebrates a transformative journey toward responsible and sustainable beekeeping, uniting 33 enthusiasts in the pursuit of apiculture excellence.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Security reaffirms its unwavering commitment to nurturing, advancing, and fostering the sustained growth and prosperity of the agro-processing industry as they convened with agro-processors to chart a way forward.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has noted an increase in Respiratory Infections over the last four weeks. Generally, the flu season runs from October to March annually, and during period, we normally see an increase in the number of persons with flu-like symptoms, both at the public and private health facilities. As Saint Lucia continues to record confirmed cases of Covid-19, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs encourages persons who have not been vaccinated against Covid19, or are partially vaccinated to visit their nearest wellness centre and get vaccinated. Persons with chronic illnesses and the elderly are particularly advised to get vaccinated. Vaccination remains the best protection against severe COVID-19 illness, hospitalization and death. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs informs the public of the availability of the COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccine at the community wellness centres. Like Covid-19, the flu is a contagious and potentially serious respiratory disease that can result in unfavorable outcomes such as severe illness, hospitalization and death. It is therefore important for persons, especially our vulnerable population and the elderly to be vaccinated against the virus causing the Flu. The Flu virus constantly changes and as a result, the vaccine is updated from one season to the next to protect against newer influenza virus strains. For this reason, it is recommended that persons get vaccinated annually. The Pfizer, Janssen covid-19 vaccines and the Influenza vaccine are available at all wellness centres from Monday, September 11, 2023. It is important to note, both the Covid-19 vaccine and Influenza Vaccine can be administered at the same time. The Pfizer vaccine is available from Monday September 11, to Saturday September 30, 2023. The Jansen vaccine is available until January 31, 2024. The public is advised to access the vaccines during that period as they may not be available after those dates. Persons are encouraged to call or visit their nearest wellness centre to access the available Covid19 and Influenza vaccines. They are available free of charge to the public. For additional information please call the Community Health Services Unit at 468-5321.

Staff of the Dennery Hospital and the Bureau of Health Education engaged clients in the promotion of healthy lifestyle practices in observance of Caribbean Wellness Day.

In today's headlines: The Minister for Education and other education officials welcomes staff and students back to the classroom as the new academic year commences and: Drivers get ready to represent Saint Lucia in motor racing. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In today's headlines: The National Culinary Champion of the Republic of China (Taiwan) displays culinary talent at a recently held bakery training workshop, and Crusita Descartes-Pelius has been appointed Commissioner of Police. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

In today's headlines: The National Culinary Champion of The Republic of China-Taiwan displayed his culinary talent at a recently held Bakery Training Workshop and; Cruscita Descartes-Pelius is the Commissioner of Police. For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Ministry officials are reporting a good start to the new academic year after Minister for Education Shawn Edward and other education officials visited schools on the island to welcome back students and school staff to the classroom.

In today's headlines: The Ministrty of Health Wellness and Elderly Affairs holds the first ever Transport sub-unit capacity building workshop and; The Rotary Club of Gros-islet and Diamonds International donate backpacks for needy students for the 2023/2024 Academic year. For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In today's headlines: Forty students from the Republic of China-Taiwan, are in Saint Lucia as part of the Youth Ambassadors Exchange Programme and; The Ministry of Agriculture, recently hosted the first-ever Coconut and Cassava Festival. For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In its commitment to mitigate the effects of climate change and address rising costs within the fishing industry, the Department of Fisheries has initiated the deployment of a new Floating Aggregating Device (FAD) in collaboration with the Soufriere Fishermen's Cooperative. This contributes to the ongoing FAD development program, which aims to maintain ten strategically positioned FADs around the island, offering essential support to the local fisherfolk.

The Department of Environmental Health as part of proactive measures to keep dengue fever at bay, has embarked on an adulticiding exercise, commonly referred to as fogging of school compounds around the island, ahead of the reopening of school on Monday, September 04,2023.

Shedding light on the exceptional importance and versatility of local agricultural produce, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development recently hosted the first-ever Coconut and Cassava Festival.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs offer guidelines to parents and guardians as the academic year begins and; Form One and Form Two students of the Saint Mary’s College are soon to engage in a new robotics programme. For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Drivers of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, numbering in excess of 40, gathered at Stony Hill for a capacity building workshop that was organized to enhance their skills sets and improve service delivery. The workshop focused on key areas such as specimen sample handling, vehicle management policy, and maintenance. https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-hosts-capacity-building-workshop-for-drivers

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs encourages parents/guardians to consider the following suggestions: Ensure that you inquire about the school’s reopening plans, safety measures and anY other specific guidelines you may need to follow.Ensure you have the necessary contact information such as the school’s administrativE office and your child’s teacher.Ensure that your child has hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and a bottle of hand soap. Involve your child in the process to instill a sense of responsibility and ownership.Ensure to provide a daily supply of water to remain hydrated. When preparing lunch bags, avoid excessive packaged snacks and sugar sweetened beverages. Make use of seasonal fruits and vegetables to encourage healthier eating habits. Cut down on screen time an encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities such as football, netball, volleyball, cricket, steel pan etc.; activities that will encourage movement.Discuss health and safety measures with your child.Explain the importance of good hand hygiene, and avoid sharing personal belongings.To reduce the spread of infections if your child develops symptoms including coughing, runny nose, sore throat, fever, vomiting and diarrhea seek medical care and do not send the child to school until they have recovered. Reinforce the idea that those measures are in place to protect their health and the well-being of others.The return to school can cause anxiety for some. Be mindful of your child’s emotions and provide a supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing their emotions.Gradually re-introduce regular routines, such as consistent bedtimes, meal schedules and study habits. This will help your child re-adjust and ease into the school routine more smoothly.Practice waking up and getting ready for school at the appropriate times to ensure a seamless transition.Talk to your child about bullying. Let them know it is unacceptable. Make sure the know how to get help if they are being bullied. https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-issues-guidelines-for-new-academic-year

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs would like to again implore the Saint Lucian public to join us in the fight against the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. This request comes in light of the recent reports coming out of our next door neighbor Martinique, where a total of 690 cases of Dengue Fever have been confirmed and 3,000 cases have been suspected. Like Martinique and the rest of the Caribbean, Dengue Fever is also endemic to Saint Lucia. Thus it is imperative that we utilize all possible measures to significantly reduce the mosquito population and prevent an outbreak of Dengue Fever in country.  https://www.govt.lc/news/environmental-health-department-intensifies-mosquito-control-strategies

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (SEP. 1, 2023) In the headlines: More than fifty young entrepreneurs have received a financial grant from the Youth Economy Agency, and the Ministry of Health undertakes a review of its health emergency and disaster risk management resources. For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Rotary Club of Gros Islet and Diamonds International have teamed-up in donating a large number of backpacks for needy students ahead of the start of the 2023/2024 Academic year.

Social Transformation Officers (STOs) can now better access social protection support services and create resilient pathways for community residents by leveraging support from the Youth Resilience, Inclusion, and Empowerment (Y-RIE) Programme. Initiated in 2022 by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Y-RIE aims to enhance community and family support systems for youth at risk by using evidence-based learning methods, referral system evaluations, community mapping surveys, mental health, and psychosocial support services and a sustainable social protection system. https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-equity-leverages-y-rie-to-strengthen-social-protection-support-systems

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 31, 2023) In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Equity seeks to strengthen Saint Lucia’s Social Protection Support Systems, and Saint Lucia is put on alert due to a current outbreak of Dengue Fever. For details on these stories and more, visit: www.govt.lc

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 30, 2023) In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia celebrates the 30th Anniversary of the World Travel Awards with triumphant wins, and another milestone has been achieved for Saint Lucia’s Collateral Registry Project. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 29, 2023) In today’s headlines: The St. Jude Hospital is in receipt of supplies to aid clinical operations, and the Human Services Division of the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, is transitioning to be housed together with the Welfare Division. For more government developments visit: www.govt.lc

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 28, 2023) In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Commerce initiates a Community Revitalization Project to facilitate financial resources for MSMEs, and the public is reminded that the Health and Security Levy is zero-rated on services until Oct. 2. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Ministry of Commerce, initiates the Community Revitalization Project to facilitate financial resources for MSMEs and; The public is reminded that the health and security Levy is Zero Rated on Services until October 2nd. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 25, 2023) In today's headlines: The coconut and casava festival comes to Micoud, and Saint Lucians are to access the CCJ as the final court of appeal. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia’s Collateral Registry of Movable Assets has reached another milestone in the implementation phase. Phase two of the project, the installation of hardware necessary for the management of Saint Lucia’s Collateral Registry of Movable Assets, begins today. For details: https://www.govt.lc/news/another-milestone-achieved-in-collateral-registry-project

Saint Lucia has integrated the care and management of COVID-19 into the health care system as we learn to live safely with COVID-19. Over the past year, we have continued to note the introduction of new variants and have managed COVID-19 cases in country. The new variants introduced seem more contagious than regular influenza, causing respiratory illness lasting between 5-7 days. Generally, the testing rate is very low at this time, with most patients managing the symptoms at home, self-treating until recovery. The majority of patients make a full recovery without hospitalization nor deaths. For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/update-on-covid-19-by-chief-medical-officer

The Ministry of Agriculture is gearing up to present the Coconut and Cassava Festival, an exuberant celebration centred around the principles of food security and the support of local producers. View video report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGfoeUmu39A&t=75s

Efforts at ensuring that the St. Jude Hospital is adequately equipped to respond to the health needs of the people in the south of the island are underway following the recent handover of hospital beds, oxygen concentrators, pharmaceuticals, cardiac monitors, lab reagents and consumables to the hospital. The handover of items was made possible by the Project Implementation Unit within the Ministry of Health through the Contingent Emergency Response Component CERC of the Health Systems Strengthening Project HSSP.  For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/sjh-receives-much-needed-supplies

The government’s policy decision to implement a Health and Security Levy of 2.5 percent on select goods and services has the public and key stakeholders requesting clarification and information on the details of its implementation. In response, the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has deployed officers to numerous VAT-registered entities to clarify how the Levy is to be applied. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/health-and-security-levy-zero-rated-on-services-until-oct-2

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 24, 2023) In today's headlines: The Ministry of Education is reimagining the future of TVET and; the Choiseul Primary School is set to receive a new music facility. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

Staff of the Ti-Rocher (Castries) Wellness Centre and the Bureau of Health Education, recently engaged with expectant and nursing mothers in a breastfeeding education and sensitization session. The Aug. 21 session followed two similar meetings at the Bexon and Vieux-Fort Wellness Centres in observance of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, where participants were instructed on the benefits of breast milk to both mother and infant and the proper techniques of breastfeeding. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/breast-feeding-workshop-hosted-at-ti-rocher-wellness-centre

The World Health Organization (WHO), from January to July 2023, recorded over three million cases of dengue fever and over 1,300 deaths in the region of the Americas. Within the region, Saint Lucia’s neighboring isle, Martinique, issued a dengue alert, while Guyana, another Caribbean territory, has already recorded 11 deaths due to dengue fever. In Saint Lucia, to date, 14 confirmed cases of dengue fever have been recorded on island. For symptom and treatment management, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-keeps-close-watch-on-cases-of-dengue-fever

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 22, 2023) In today's headlines: The new principal of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College vows to uphold the institution's academic excellence; and the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports highlights the efforts made to foster sporting talent. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

In a demonstration of enduring diplomatic relations and international cooperation, the Government of Saint Lucia has received a supply of fertilizer from the Kingdom of Morocco. This cooperative gesture provided annually, aims to address soil fertility challenges and elevate crop production across the nation. A consignment of 3975 bags of fertilizer was handed over at the La Caye Inland Reception Distribution Center (IRDC) on August 16, 2023. For details: https://www.govt.lc/news/kingdom-of-morocco-donates-fertilizer

The Department of Fisheries and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have again partnered on the ongoing "Coast Fish Project," aimed at strengthening the sustainable use and management of coastal fisheries resources in CARICOM countries. The project achieved a significant milestone with the conclusion of a comprehensive five-day seminar held in Saint Lucia from August 14 to 18, targeting the enhancement of capabilities of fisheries statisticians from the project's target countries. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/coast-fish-project-seminar-trains-statisticians-in-marine-management-software

With the recent spike in dengue fever cases in neighboring islands, the Environmental Health Division through the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs asks the public to make a concerted effort to reduce the adult mosquito presence on their premises. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/eradication-of-the-aedes-aegypti-mosquito

GOVERNMENT NOTEBOOK (Aug. 22, 2023) In today's headlines: Ministry of Health stresses safe hygiene practices amidst a surge in gastroenteritis cases, and the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project has opened up a world of opportunities for people living with blindness and low vision. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

In today’s headlines: A cohort from Saint Lucia will receive training in Chronic Disease Prevention and Control; and government provides an update on the Millennium Highway Reconstruction Project. For more government updates, visit: www.govt.lc

The recently-concluded second workshop for the development of wastewater guidelines in Saint Lucia, marked a notable advancement in the overarching initiative to elevate wastewater management practices on the island. The project is expected to not only enhance local wastewater practices but also serve as a model for similar initiatives, promoting the well-being of communities and the environment. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/wrma-and-gefs-crew-project-partner-on-sustainable-wastewater-practices

In a significant move to aid the recovery efforts of farmers following the impact of Hurricane Brett, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Rural Development has partnered with the National Fair Trade Organization (NFTO) to provide more than $400,000 of vital input subsidies to banana and plantain farmers.  Through the newly-established subsidy program, both banana and plantain farmers will receive essential supplies including, two 50kg bags of fertilizer per acre and two litres of nematicide per acre.  For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/government-partners-with-nfto-to-provide-agriculture-subsidies

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development, in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and the Taiwan Technical Mission have launched the visionary project "Where Women Bloom: Supporting Sustainable Livelihoods for Women and Youth through Capacity Building and Inclusivity in the Mushroom Industry." As part of the “Where Women Bloom” Project, twenty-five beneficiaries received comprehensive training in small-scale mushroom production, enhancing their capabilities and paving the way for economic independence and self-sufficiency. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/where-women-bloom-project-empowers-women-in-agriculture

In today’s headlines: the Department of Finance has stated that the Health and Security Levy is not a value added tax; and Saint Lucia’s event-based surveillance system is being considered for replication in other Caribbean countries.

A world of opportunities has opened up for persons living with blindness and low vision. The Caribbean Digital Transformation Project in partnership with the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College and the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council has launched the first cohort of a two-week digital training programme in collaboration with the St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association.   For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/cardtp-commences-digital-literacy-training-for-blind-low-vision-children

As the lead agency on the National Homeless Response Committee, the Social Transformation Division of the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, on August 4, 2023, convened a special meeting of stakeholders to evaluate current procedures, perceived weaknesses, and chart the way forward for improvements in the system.  

In today’s headlines: The Psychological Support and Resources Project is launched; and The National Homeless Committee reviews operations and procedures. For more government developments, visit: www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia continues to record confirmed cases of COVID-19 despite a generally low testing rate. Currently the dominant variant of COVID-19 in Saint Lucia is an omicron sub-variant called XBB.1.5. Over the last three weeks, we note increased numbers of persons with respiratory illness presenting at both public and private health facilities. Subsequent to a statement released on July 15 regarding a surge in the number of cases of gastroenteritis, the Ministry of Health continues to record increases. In the weeks post Carnival (July 23 – Aug. 5) a significant increase in cases of gastroenteritis was noted. A 71 percent increase in cases was recorded. For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/covid-19-and-gastroenteritis-update

Five seed trainers are set to leave for Taiwan in September. For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/saint-lucian-delegation-headed-to-taiwan

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Health introduce Performance Based Financing programs at selected Wellness Centres and; The Ministry of Tourism facilitates customer service training for vendors.

In today’s headlines: the Ministry of Health introduces Performance Based Financing programs at eight selected Wellness Centres; and the Ministry of Tourism facilitates customer service training for vendors.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs recognizes the need to undertake various interventions to address the prevalence and impact of Diabetes and Hypertension in Saint Lucia. To this end, the Performance-Based Financing (PBF) Pilot Program was launched on June 29, 2023. This program is aimed at providing screening and treatment services for Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension. Under the PBF Pilot Program, individuals who are 18 years and older will be eligible to access the services of screening and risk assessment and laboratory tests at NO COST. For full statement, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/availability-of-pbf-services-at-eight-wellness-centres

In today’s headlines: the Soufriere Fishermen's Cooperative Society has assumed ownership of the fisheries facility; and the National Population and Housing Census is extended due to low public cooperation and high enumerator drop-outs.

In today's headlines: Crown land residents gain from a road extension project by the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund; and the Government of Saint Lucia has announced the allocation of $5 million for renovation works on schools.

In today’s headlines: Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre asks for co-operation regarding the Value Added Tax exemption policy, and eight United States Peace Corps volunteers are sworn in at a virtual ceremony.

In today's headlines: The Project Implementation Unit within the Ministry of Health begin preparations for rehabilitation works to wellness centres and; The Boys Training Centre, participates in the ConnectED Summer Student Internship initiative. 

In today’s headlines: Hon. Alva Baptiste attends the Third European Union Community of Latin American and Caribbean States Summit, and the Ministry of Agriculture highlights the BRAC VACS project aimed at building resilience among agricultural stakeholders.

In today's headlines: ICT training is provided for over 45 vendors from across the island and; The SSDF Provides Single Mothers with Entrepreneurship Training.

In today's headlines: The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia and Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Fund for Development,  have signed an agreement for the rehabilitation and refurbishment of the St. Jude’s Hospital Project and; The ECCB is seeking Public Input On Updating the Look of EC currency.

In today's headlines: The CDF’s Drum and Dance Festival commences a month of activities in recognition of Emancipation Day and; Saint Lucia’s Agriculture Minister visits Costa Rica's Tropical Agriculture Research and Higher Education Centre.

In the headlines: With the reintroduction of it’s Scholarship and Book Bursary in 2022, the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation continues efforts to foster educational development and empower young minds and; The Upton Girls’ Garden Centre announces the opening of applications to its Development Center for the academic year 2023/24.

Caribbean Wellness Day is held annually in all CARICOM countries, on the second Saturday of September. This event is geared towards increasing awareness and promoting activities to address Non-Communicable Diseases including mental health. The theme for Caribbean Wellness Day is, “Power Through Collective Action”, which spans the period 2020 to 2024.   In keeping with this theme, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs will collaborate with partners throughout the month of August and early September to undertake several precursor activities building up to Caribbean Wellness Day which will be observed on September 9th, 2023. Please take note of this important date. These precursor activities will complement many of the initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Health to improve the health and wellbeing of the nation in accordance with its mandate to improve health for all. Many activities hosted by partnering agencies will contribute to the “St. Lucia Moves” initiative which encourages increase in age-appropriate physical activity across the island and in workplaces. This is in keeping with regional and global health strategies to reduce and to manage non-communicable diseases through exercise. Persons should take advantage of the many health screening programmes that are being conducted at health facilities and through community and workplace outreach activities. This will contribute to the “Know Your Numbers” initiative where all Saint Lucians are encouraged to know their blood pressure, blood sugar, weight and cholesterol level, among others. Knowing these numbers will allow for the early detection and management of chronic health conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which can lead to premature death.  There will also be activities that speaks to our nutrition and mental health. For us to succeed as a nation in the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases, we must contribute in whatever way we can to make this a reality. As a result, the Ministry of Health is calling on all public and private sector agencies, faith-based organization and non-profit organizations to be involved in the many activities leading up to Caribbean Wellness Day.  These activities will include healthy competitions and fun filled and relaxation moments. The precursor activities will commence with a Bike Ride on August 1st, Emancipation Day, which will be hosted by Move2Live of the St. Lucia Mission of Seventh Day Adventists. On the August 11th, the Vieux Fort Wellness Centre will host a workplace wellness health screening session for our Police Officers and Firemen in the south of the island. The technical team at the Ministry of Health will use the various media houses and social media platforms to inform you of the many more activities planned by our partners for August and early September. The Ministry of Health encourages everyone to engage in healthy lifestyle like being physically active, engage in healthy eating, to quit smoking if you do, to reduce your alcohol consumption to recommended safe levels, to get annual checks and to improve your relationship with family and friends.  Let us embrace a culture that values and supports the holistic well-being of every citizen, for a healthier, happier, and more prosperous Saint Lucia.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Agriculture, is supporting the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in their effort to guide children and young people of Saint Lucia towards effective environmental management strategies and; Great Shape Inc 1000 smiles return to Saint Lucia.

In todays's headlines: SLASPA reinforces their commitment To Secure Ports To Prevent the entry of TR4 and; The GGGI announces the successful applicants selected for the Eastern Caribbean Greenpreneurs Incubator Program .

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Culture and the CDF are recognizing emancipation this year with a month full of activities and; The (NCF) has awarded thirty-five full scholarships and four bursaries to successful students of the (CPEA) Examinations. 

In today's headlines: Saint Lucia's House of Assembly is underscoring the vulnerability of small nation states in meeting demands set by international agencies and; A collective agreement between the Saint Lucia Electricity Services and the Civil Service Association is successfully signed.

In today's headlines: The message of renewable energy is being spread via the Central Library’s summer camp program and; The Prime Miniter of Saint Lucia hands over the chairmanship of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Monetary Council.

In today's headlines: Over 40 Apiculture Farmers have received emergency training in beekeeping harvesting and; The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a USD 7.6 million loan to boost youth enterprises in Saint Lucia.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs usually records high vector presence, like mosquito and rats during the rainy season and by extension an increase in vector borne diseases. As a result, Vector Awareness Week is being observed annually to create that understanding among the populace for the importance of eradicating or minimizing the presence of such vectors in the environment. Vector Awareness Week which was launched on June 21, 2023 under the theme “Vectors be Gone, Better St. Lucia come along”, has numerous activities to engage the public and build capacity for reducing vector presence. The Environmental Health Division through the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs therefore invites you to a community fair in observance of Vector Awareness Week. The fair will be held on Friday July 28 at the Soufriere Bus Terminal from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Representatives from various departments will be present to engage residents on Water Safety, Food Safety and Vector Control. There will also be blood pressure checks and entertainment inclusive of live performances and jazzercise, for those wishing to burn some calories. We are inviting all members of the community to bring their family along to participate and win prizes.

As part of the ongoing Apiculture Farmer Field School (FFS) series of programs organized by the Veterinary & Livestock Services Division to promote sustainable and responsible beekeeping practices, over 40 Apiculture Farmers received emergency training in beekeeping harvesting. The July 13, 2023, initiative also covered various aspects of beekeeping, ranging from hive management to honey harvesting techniques.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Agriculture holds its annual Agriculture Exporters Meeting and; The CDB and the Government Of Saint Lucia focus on Early Childhood Development Centers across Saint Lucia.

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Fire Service and the SLHTA have joined forces in an effort to aid vulnerable youth and; The Minister for Agriculture, has highlighted  positives within the Agricultural sector over the last financial year.

In the Headlines: Saint Lucia’s Department Of Forestry has been selected to Represent The Caribbean In Land Degradation Neutrality and; Revenue generated by the new Health and Citizen Security Levy aims to provide quality healthcare services to the public and reinforce national security infrastructure. 

In today's headlines: Lucian Carnival 2023 comes to a close and; The ministry of Agriculture hosts a financial literacy workshop.

In today’s headlines: The Government announces improved quality of health services for Type 2 Diabetics and those suffering from Hypertension and; The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs have asked MSME grant  applicants to bear some patience as all applications are being reviewed.

In today’s headlines: The Prime minister has tabled a Resolution in Parliament to provide additional economic relief to the public and; The MSME Loan Grant Facility to include duty free concessions.

Saint Lucians in targeted communities will receive improved quality of health services for Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension at community wellness centres. 

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Tourism gets set for The National Tourism Public Speaking Competition 2023; and STO’s, Youth Development Officers and volunteers sharpen skills on community mapping methodologies.

In the headlines: The Caribbean Development Bank moves to strengthen Saint Lucia's agricultural sector and; Procurement officers from the public service receive training in capacity building.

In the headlines: Musician Ronald Boo Hinkson makes a passionate plea to young St. Lucian Entrepreneurs and; Medium and small businesses in Saint Lucia are set to benefit from a major  packaging and Labelling project.

In the headlines: World Elder Abuse Day is recognized and; The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia helps facilitate the bolstering of national security on island.

In the headlines: The Folk Research Centre continues its Kweyol Literacy Training program and; The Distress Fund receives EC 1 million dollars from the Republic of China, Taiwan.

In the headlines: Mr. Ira Augustin d’Auvergne is laid to rest and; The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a specialized Farmer Field School program focused on beekeeping and honey production.

In the headlines: The CDB discusses practical measures for increasing access to finance for women-led enterprises and; The need for male victims to report sexual and domestic abuse is highlighted.

In the headlines: A storm warning is issued for Saint Lucia and; Law enforcement and border security is strengthened on island and throughout the caribbean.

In the headlines: The Ministry Of Agriculture has stepped up efforts to Reinforce Public Awareness to the TR4 Disease and; The Department of Education,moves full steam ahead with its mandate to support human resource development.

In the headlines: The Inland Revenue Department has hosted a Regional Foundational Transfer Pricing Workshop for both local and regional participants and; The Government of Saint Lucia allocates funds towards Social Protection.

In the headlines: The Caribbean Development Bank present Youth Fire as part of the activities held for the 53rd Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors and; Creative Arts students in St. Lucia are being enlightened on opportunities to improve their craft.

In the headlines: World Day Against Child Labour was observed June 12th and; The OECS celebrate its 42nd Anniversary.

In the headlines: The Soca Artform takes centre stage at a recently held workshop and; Saint Lucia observes World Oceans Day.

In the headlines: A recent Small Machinery Expo, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Taiwan Technical Mission, showcases the transformative potential of mechanization in agriculture and; A high-level delegation from Saint Lucia, visits a Martiniquan boat show.

In the headlines: The Human Capital Resilience Project gets set to train 3000 secondary school students and; the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation's scholarship and book bursary programme aids hundreds.

In the headlines: The National Insurance Corporation reinstates the requirement of a proof of life certificate for Saint Lucian pensioners and; the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, hosts a hospitality showcase.

In the headlines: St. Mary's College students emerge the victors at the Caphra Covid-19 and immunisation regional competition and; The Ministry of Education facilitates a mathematics summer camp in an effort to support the needs of Saint Lucian students.

In the headlines: Saint Lucians observe the National Day of Caring and; The Ministry of Education initiates a scholarship Sensitization Programme.

In the headlines: Farmers and key stakeholders are honoured on World Food Day and; The Accountant General's department spearheads international public service accounting standards for greater transparency and accountability.

In the headlines: A transformative training session in sustainable water and soil management comes forth from the Triangular Project and; New Payment Modalities for Social Protection are to be tested.

In the headlines: USAID embark on a research project aimed at improving the experiences and challenges faced by youth in Saint Lucia and: The CARICOM Development Fund fascilitate a renewable energy project.

In the headlines: The DVRP partners with a slew of agencies in an effort to improve Saint Lucia’s construction sector and; The finalists in the search for the Min. Of Tourism Juniour Minister are announced.

In the headlines: The Triangular Project is launched and; The Minister of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs discusses Universal Healthcare.

In the headlines: The Mininster for Agriculture, the Hon. Alfred Prospere, recently engaged the farmers in Grace Vieux Fort and; Youth workers present their bi-annual report to the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports.

In the headlines: A preliminary report for the new minimum wage policy has been prepared and; St. Lucia’s integrity Commission are set to strengthen its operations.

In the headlines: The UTC launches it's first local mutual fund and; Corinth Secondary and Grande Riviere Primary School students put their art on display in support of a good cause.

In the headlines: Wards of the Boys Training Centre bring Jazz to the masses and; The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports spotlight Mixed Martial Arts.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia recognises World Hypertension Day and; The Ministry of Education holds a Principals Meeting.

In the headlines: MSME’s are to benefit from more than 10 million dollars in funding and; The CARICOM Development Fund offer assistance to small and medium businesses who convert to cleaner forms of energy.

In the headlines: Blind Awareness month is recognised throughout the month of May and: (CDEMA) initiates the pilot phase of the safe schools recognition programme.

In the headlines: Port Showcase is launched and; Saint Lucia observes International Day of Plant Health

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival has come to an end. Here’s a look back at some of the sounds, occurences and highlights from this years event.

In the headlines: Training is announced for Lawyers and Bankers regarding Saint Lucia's collateral registry for immovable properties and; Another ward from the Boy's Training Centre has successfully represented the island overseas.

In the headlines: The Ministry of Education continues work on the Education Sector Plan for the period 2023 to 2038 and; The CDB assesses beneficiaries of the BNTF tenth cycle.

In the headlines: A South Korean Study Tour is held for Saint Lucian Ministry of Health personnel and; A DIPT Materials Laboratory Receives A Major Upgrade.

In the headlines: The modernization of the public service takes center stage for the Government of Saint Lucia and; Counter Trafficking is discussed as one of the three core projects to the caribbean reagion by the UNDP Barbados and the CariSECURE 2.0 project.

In the headlines: The Caribbean Examinations Council are working towards strengthening the preparation and execution of the CPEA exams and; Choiseul Residents Will Soon Benefit from A Constant Flow Of Portable Water

The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment are touting the development of a Vulnerability Index that will significantly increase the agency’s response time, in identifying and categorizing persons impacted by disasters and; An Asset Review Workshop for Credit Unions on the island is conducted. 

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival Community Events take flight and; Saint Lucia’s Youth walk for Peace.

In the headlines: The OECS Council of Ministers Meet under the theme, “Touching Lives Through Data Driven Development." and; A call has been sounded for the revitalization of community libraries.

In the headlines: The Registry of Companies and Intellectual Property recognises the accomplishments of Julien Alfred and;Tourism sector workers are awarded.

In the headlines: SALCC Host Author Talks and; The United Nations has pledged its continued support in helping Saint Lucia attain UN-set SDGs.

In the headlines: A donation of seamoss farming equipment has been made to the Aupicon Seamoss Farmers Association and the Savannes Bay farmers and; The DVRP facilitates a capcity building exercise in hte use of LiDar Technology.

In the headlines: The prime ministers budget address speaks to economic elevation amidst global instability and; The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports give an update on youth month activities

In the headlines: The First of the MSME Loan Grant Disbursements are meade and; Labour Day Activities are launched.

In the headlines: The Acting Governor General, Mr. Cyril E. M. Charles has delivered The Throne Speech and; ECTEL continues its Public Consultation on the quality of service offered by telecommunication providers.

In the headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia apologises to the Saint lucia National trust for the demolition of former royal gaol and; The Department of Labour is sensitizing the public on rules to be followed in an effort to maintain a safer working environment.

In the headlines: The Department of Labour prepares for Labour day by sensitizing the public on the Labour code and; The deadline for first call applications for the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Loan-Grant Facility has been extended to Wednesday, 31st May, 2023.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia observes World Creativity and Innovation Day and; The Government of Saint Lucia has high praise for the Catholic Church as it Stands-Up Against Violence

In the headlines: 21st century technology will soon improve the work of The Saint Lucia Met Service and the Water Resource Management Agency and;  Saint Lucian Entrepreneurs share their experiences on a recently attended agricultural exhibition. 

In the headlines: The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia has delivered remarks at the Caribbean Community Caricom Regional Symposium and; Patrons of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts festival can look forward to "Art and The City"

In the headlines: The SALCC "Word Up" poetry slam winner is crowned and; The Government of Saint Lucia is on course to furnish every secondary school student with a laptop device.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia’s CAIFTA Game Athletes Return Home and; Taiwan contributes to the constituency development program.

In the headlines: Continued intensified tactical operations by police continue in vieux-fort and; Diverse modes of transportation are offered to patrons of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.

In the headlines: The Office of The Prime minister announces the appointment of the Firearms and Licensing Board and; Saint Lucian Athletes flourish at the 50th CARIFTA games.

The latest relief is coming through assistance from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), via a loan of US5.5M from the Special Funds Resources, allocated from funds provided by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), under the Global Loan Programme to build health, social and economic resilience in the member countries of the OECS.

In the headlines: The Ministrty of Equity receives two thousand (2,000) energy saving light bulbs for distribution to 650 vulnerable households and; A team from the Caribbean Court of Justice Accession Committee visits the town of Soufriere.

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards celebrate their 32nd Anniversary and; The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s ground fleet is strengthened.

In the headlines:  Science students are applauded for the efforts made during the recently held National Science and Technology Fair and; The Parliamentary representative for Soufriere has stated that work is underway to construct a new homeless shelter within her constituency. 

In the headlines: Officials of the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment and the WFP fine-tune protocols of Saint Lucia's social protection system and; Babonneau Secondary School students learn about enhancing the efficiency of local agricultural produce production and distribution.

In the headlines:  The Hon Minister Kenson Casimir has praised Saint Lucia’s youth and; Saint Lucia is working to deepen Trade relations with Guayana.

In the headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia highlights efforts made to aid the country's vulnerable individuals and; Youth Month 2023 is upon us.

In today's headlines: The Hon. Jeremiah Norbert projects increased economic and infrastructural development for Micoud north and; A New BA Service Boosts Economic Partnership between Saint Lucia and Guyana.

In today's headlines: The Prime Minister the Hon. Philip J. Pierre presents the estimates of revenue and expenditure and; The debate on the estimates begin

In today's headlines: The Annual RSS Meeting has Concluded with a Renewed Approach to Suppressing Criminality and; The Water Resource Management Agency observes International World Water Day.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Tourism set out to promote their National Speaking Competition and; The Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation are welcomed by Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Agriculture. 

World Bank and European Union Delegation’s Visit Saint Lucia’s Ongoing DVRP Activities and; The Government of Saint Lucia has made amendments to the Anti-terrorism act bringing  the country closer to full compliance with the recommendations of the Financial Action Taskforce.

In today's headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia disburses XCD $11.5 Million in outstanding back pay to public servants and; Castries Comprehensive alumni give back.

In today's headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia has adopted a phased approach to the introduction of Universal Health Coverage and; The Hon. Prime minister is currently attending a meeting on regional security

In today's headlines: The NEMO readies Saint Lucia for Caribe Wave tsunami simulation exercise and; The Division of Human Services of the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment has convened an informative training workshop aimed at sensitizing and registering foster caregivers across the island.

In today's headlines: Saint Lucian Customs and Excise Officers take part in a WCO sponsored arms detection training programme and; A cohort of primary school students, receive a unique learning experience as they embark on an agricultural field trip to the Rosseau valley.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Commerce, Manufacturing, Business Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs Launch the MSME Loan- Grant Facility and; Government lawmakers have strengthened the authority of the police force with the new police powers bill.

In today's headlines: The Ministry for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment donates to a charitable institution and; Schools under the PEARL Project welcome the prospect of a Pre-K level 

In today's headlines: Hon Philip J Pierre has implemented additional action in an effort to suppress criminal activity in Saint Lucia and; The Calendar of Activities for the observance of Francophonie Month 2023 is launched

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Education holds a sensitization and training workshop among key stakeholders and; A three (3) day intervention by the Department of Fisheries sees renewed interest in the area of aquaponics.

In today's headlines: Stakeholders gather to assess the strengths and weaknesses of current pesticide regulations and; The southern extension of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College is set to be rehabilitated and expanded.

In today's headlines: Government Lawmakers Have Taken Steps To Ensure That the Post of DEPUTY SPEAKER in Parliament Is Always Occupied and; The Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project and the Department of Forestry spear head The Assessment and Rehabilitation of Major Rivers initiative.

In today's headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia and the African Export Import Bank explore mutual opportunities in the areas of Development Financing and; the community of Canaries is presently hosting an anti-violence and crime Walaba Tournament.

In today's headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia have disclosed plans to consult with residents of the CDC and; The Minister of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, updates the nation on the United States Military medical mission.

In today's headlines: Saint Lucia celebrates International Women's Day and; The government of Saint Lucia seeks to improve gender responsiveness in national development.

In today's headlines: The sitting of the House of Assembly is scheduled for Tuesday March 7th, 2023 and; The Ministry of Tourism announces the launch of a public speaking challenge.

In today's headlines: Hon Dr. Kenny D Anthony underscores the importance of Saint Lucia’s impending accession to the CCJ and; The Champions of the 2023 Schools Science Quiz are crowned.

Saint Lucia remains on course to become the fifth CARICOM Member State to accede to the appellate jurisdiction of the CCJ and; The National Ozone Unit within the Department of Sustainable Development has officially launched the second stage of the National HCFC Phase Out Management Plan.

World Hearing Day is observed on March 3 every year, it is the largest global awareness campaign on ear and hearing care that calls for action to address hearing loss. This year’s theme is "Ear and Hearing Care for all!” Let’s make it a Reality”.

World Hearing Day is observed on March 3 every year, it is the largest global awareness campaign on ear and hearing care that calls for action to address hearing loss. This year’s theme is "Ear and Hearing Care for all!” Let’s make it a Reality”.

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has expressed satisfaction with construction works at three schools on the island, under the Education Quality Improvement Project also known as EQUIP.  

The IMF/CARTAC has provided technical assistance to the Inland Revenue Department and; The Government of Saint Lucia has secured 3.2 million EC dollars from Taiwan to help support people orientated projects.

In today's headlines: The Caribbean Basin Security initiative is launched in Saint Lucia and; The National Accreditation Council has moved one step closer to achieving a formalized system aimed at accrediting tertiary education institutions on island.

The IMF/CARTAC provided technical assistance to the Inland Revenue Department as it develops a 3-year strategic plan for the department. This takes into account the reform of its governance arrangements, stakeholder management and identification of key knowledge gaps for capacity development in the area of reform management.  

In today's headlines: The Ministry if Agricultures Seafood Fiesta proves to be a hit and; The Folk Research Centre establishes the ‘Bridging Heritage and Livelihoods Project. 

In today's headlines: Officials of BELfund are expressing optimism at the level of uptake surrounding two recently held community outreach initiatives and; Saint Lucia is set to benefit from the implementation of three social development programmes which come under the CBSI funded by USAID.

A newly formed National Accreditation Council has moved one step closer to achieving a formalized system of accreditation of institutions desirous of providing tertiary and continuing education on the island.

Schools across the island came together in their respective districts to celebrate the island’s 44th independence Anniversary to the national independence Theme “Douvan Asanm: One People. Shaping our Destiny.” Chris Satney reports on Rallies in Districts One and Five.

In today's headlines: The Prime Minister announces that the Youth Economy Programme will be formally launched in March and; The Ministry of Agriculture host a visual soil assessment workshop.

In today's headlines: The DVRP and NEMO have joined forces to build better community disaster management capacity and; The Agriculture Ministry continues to make healthy eating more accessible to citizens and visitors

Disaster management will receive an upgrade with the implementation of The Disaster Information Management System (DIMS)

In today's headlines: The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council spearheads the development of the collateral registry and; The Women Empowerment Climate Resilience Project is launched by the Ministry of Agriculture.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Health promotes holistic wellness and; Academic awards of excellence are held at the R.C. Boys School.

On Tuesday February 14, 2023, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs held a press launch of its "Love your Body Campaign" a component of its bigger healthy-lifestyle campaign: " Saint Lucia Moves".

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has received confirmation from the Caribbean Public Health Agency of 12 cases of COVID-19 sub variant XBB1.5 in Saint Lucia. This sub variant of Omicron has been circulating in China, the United States, United Kingdom and also other countries in the region. The cases are distributed in most districts in Saint Lucia, although the northern and central regions of the country are most affected. We estimate that this variant is already widely distributed across the country at this point. 7 of the cases received are male and 5 are female, ages range from 5-74 years with one hospitalized case. At present we have sequenced about 13 sub-variants of omicron circulating in country.

DVRP and NEMO joined forces in building disaster management capacity in the community.

In today's headlines: The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia attends the 44th regular meeting of the confrence of heads of government of CARICOM and; The Ministry of Health reports a significant increase in resparatory illnesses.

The Ministry of Education and Monroe College have joined forces to provide 50 new scholarships under the First-Generation Scholarship programme, launched recently.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports sets the stage for the National Sports Awards and; The DVRP continue in their efforts to build the island resilient to natural disasters

The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) is spearheading the development of the Collateral registry to support the Security Interest in Movable Properties legislation. The collateral registry will enhance access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises and bolster economic growth within Saint Lucia.

At present, we note increases in Respiratory Illnesses over a wide range of age groups, impacting the education sector significantly. The Ministry of Health is monitoring the COVID-19 situation and the presence of other respiratory viruses. 

In today's headlines: PAHO spearheads a mission on data collection for Arthropod-Borne Viruses and; The Prime Minister highlights the importance of early warning systems.

Construction of the new Piaye Bridge is one of many civil works activities facilitated by the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP). The bridge was severely damaged by multiple storms as far back as the 1990s. Most recently the 2013 Christmas Eve Trough. 

The National Principals Association (NPA) honored five retired Principals and Education Officers at its recently held annual retirement dinner.

St. Aloysius RC Boys Primary School recently held the 2023 edition of its Academic Awards of Excellence to honour its students' accomplishments.

The National Population and Housing Census has been extended to ensure that all households and businesses are enumerated. The census has been completed in Soufriere and is nearing completion in Dennery, Micoud, and Vieux-Fort. Focus now shifts to those districts that are lagging a bit.

The Pan American Health Organization –PAHO, wrapped up a four-day assignment in Saint Lucia on Thursday, February 9, 2023, providing technical assistance in a review of the National Integrated Health Surveillance Guidelines.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, has commenced a scale- up of its Global HEARTS Initiative, as the Ministry continues to promote cardiovascular health.

PAHO Officials are on island leading a mission on data collection for Arthropod-Borne Viruses. These viruses are commonly transmitted through insects such as mosquitos, ticks and flies and have been known to lead to outbreaks of Dengue Fever and Chikungunya. The mission is here for one week to assist in strengthening the islands data management system.

In today's headlines: The Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, has kicked off the first of it's monthly debates and; The World Health Organization has announced that the Trans-Fat global elimination target has not been met.

In today's headlines: World Wetlands Day is observed and; The Honourable Dr. Ernest Hilaire advocates for the inclusion of creatives in nation building.

In today's headlines: The National Anti Money Laundering Oversight Committee sensitizes stakeholders on the Virtual Assets Business Act; and Saint Lucia appoints a new Cabinet Secretary.

The World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020 reported that 1 in every 6 deaths, or 10 million deaths worldwide, were the result of cancer. Globally, cancer is the second leading cause of death. The latest report from the National Epidemiology Department indicates that for both male and female, cancer is the second most common cause of death in Saint Lucia. Prostate, breast, lung, colon, cervix, endometrium, stomach and ovarian cancer are among the top ten cancers that contributed to deaths in Saint Lucia over the last five years. For the full statement, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/address-by-minister-for-health-on-world-cancer-day

In today’s headlines: Less fortunate households in Saint Lucia have begun to benefit from items donated to the Ministry of Equity, and the DVRP continues to strengthen the resilience of communities.

Cancer awareness activities and programmes continue into February, as the world intensifies the fight against the dreaded disease. Immediately following Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, comes World Cancer Day on February 4. In Saint Lucia, education campaigns, screenings and testimonials will form part of a month-long observance for this year’s World Cancer Day.

Sir Arthur Lewis Community College kicked-off the first of monthly debates at the institution as part of the Nobel Laureate Festival, which celebrates the lives and work of the island’s two Nobel Laureates. The activity is designed to stir up discussion among students on varying topics beginning with a debate on whether newer or older traditions were are more beneficial to society.

Free screenings and pap tests are being offered around the island as Saint Lucia joins the world in observing Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The month of January is used annually to intensify awareness and education programs surrounding cervical cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control, cancer remains the second leading cause of death. Find out more: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-observes-cervical-cancer-awareness-month

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia’s 44th Anniversary of Independence is launched; and Saint-Lucia successfully completes a 2022 Time Release Study.

The Central Library has launched a new activity harnessing local talent in the area of writing, poetry and the performing arts.

Several marginalized and less fortunate households in Saint Lucia have begun benefiting from close to US $100 thousand dollars, in items donated from the Taiwanese Embassy to the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment. The handover ceremony, which took place on January 26, 2023 at the Gros-Islet Human Resource Development Centre, included shoes, toys, speakers, face-masks, and sanitary wipes, among others.

The National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee (NAMLOC) sensitized stakeholders from the financial and legal sectors, real-estate and civil society organizations on the purpose, intent, and impact of the Virtual Assets Business Act which was recently passed in December 2022.  Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/stakeholders-sensitized-on-virtual-assets-business-act

In today’s headlines: The FRC launches the 2023 Creole Calendar; and Saint Lucia gears up for the 30th edition of the Jazz and Arts Festival.

The Saint Lucia Cadet Corps recently hosted the first Commandant's Parade for 2023, at the Mindoo Phillip Park, signaling a surge of interest in the organisation.

In today's headlines: The Saint Lucia Customs and Excise Department observes World Customs Day 2023; and the Dennery Primary School honours its students.

Fourteen health facilities around the island are expected to be retrofitted to meet climate smart facilities standards. 

In today’s headlines: Residents of Dennery highlight the positive impacts of a new drain system; and the Ministry of Health highlights dental hygiene and the importance of reading food labels at a recently-held health fair.

The Saint Lucia Customs and Excise Department continues to make operational improvements and upgrades geared at optimizing revenue collection, tightening the island’s borders, and improving Saint Lucia’s trade and travel landscape. The Department is also gearing up for the Observance of World Customs Day on Thursday, January 26th, 2023. 

The Dennery Primary School honoured its students who have excelled in various classes and in sport when the school hosted an award ceremony using Nobel Laureate Day as a backdrop.

The Dental and Nutrition Units within the Ministry of Health, Wellness Elderly Affairs seized the opportunity to educate students on dental hygiene and the reading of labels, during the District Two annual Fun Run/Walk which took place on January 23, 2023. Read full report here: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-hosts-health-fair-at-annual-fun-run

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia honors its Nobel Laureates with a wreath laying ceremony; and the National Archives honors two Saint Lucian Athletes.

In today’s headlines: Invest Saint Lucia has successfully relocated eight informal occupants in Choiseul; and Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Heights Medical Complex announces changes in operations for 2023.

Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Heights Medical Complex (MHMC), Dr. Dexter James, has outlined some key strategies that will assist in improving patients’ experience at the medical institution. His comments were made at a Jan. 17 press conference that provided an opportunity for the management of the Millennium Heights Medical Complex to review its operations and outline its new plans and vision. The Millennium Heights Medical Complex comprises three facilities namely: the Owen King European Union Hospital, the National Mental Wellness Centre and the Turning Point Rehabilitation Centre.

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Health, Welness and Elderly Affairs, informs on the upcoming military mission to Saint Lucia amd; The Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, headlines at high profile speaking events in Saint Kitts & Nevis and Barbados.

In today's headlines: The Queens Commonwealth essay awards is held as part of the Nobel Laureate Festival and; Work begins on the recycled OECS project.

Students of schools within Education District Two are starting the new term and the new year in high spirits when they engaged in the District’s Annual Fun Walk on Friday. 

Heads of Public Health Primary Care Departments of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, met for their first face –to- face meeting for 2023, on Monday, January 16. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar-George, who chaired the meeting described it as “an implementation meeting. The meeting concentrated on implementing the main areas where gaps were identified, following the completion of an assessment of the island’s primary health care systems. 

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, is coordinating a surgical and dental mission by the United States Military Medical Mission. This medical mission is scheduled to be undertaken in Saint Lucia during the period Wednesday March 8 to Wednesday March 22, 2023. Minor surgical and dental procedures and medication shall be provided free of charge to residents in need of the care being offered. The minor surgical procedures being offered include removal of cysts and masses, hernia repair and trauma surgeries. These procedures will be carried out at the Owen King European Hospital. Individuals who are interested in surgical procedures are advised to visit the Community Wellness Centres during the Medical Clinics for review and registration from January 23, 2023. All are asked to walk with your ID cards for registration. Dental services will include extractions, fillings, caries stabilization and dental hygiene-related services/cleaning and intra operative extractions. These procedures will be carried out at the La Clery Wellness Centre from 8.30am to 4.30pm. 

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, is coordinating a surgical and dental mission by the United States Military Medical Mission. This medical mission is scheduled to be undertaken in Saint Lucia during the period Wednesday March 8 to Wednesday March 22, 2023. Minor surgical and dental procedures and medication shall be provided free of charge to residents in need of the care being offered. The minor surgical procedures being offered include removal of cysts and masses, hernia repair and trauma surgeries. These procedures will be carried out at the Owen King European Hospital. Individuals who are interested in surgical procedures are advised to visit the Community Wellness Centres during the Medical Clinics for review and registration from January 23, 2023. All are asked to walk with your ID cards for registration. Dental services will include extractions, fillings, caries stabilization and dental hygiene-related services/cleaning and intra operative extractions. These procedures will be carried out at the La Clery Wellness Centre from 8.30am to 4.30pm. 

In today's headlines: The Ministry of Equity presents plans and programs for 2023 - 2024 fiscal year and; Saint Lucia strengthens it's money laundering prevention legislation.

Saint Lucia is in the process of revising its National Risk Assessment ahead of an application for re-rating in November 2023. The National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee (NAMLOC) has sought to strengthen the country’s capacity to combat money laundering, terrorist, and proliferation financing. One of the mandates of NAMLOC is to review Saint Lucia’s legislative framework in relation to money laundering and propose the necessary amendments to existing legislation and enactment of new legislation to close existing gaps.

In today's headlines: A new cohort of medical students depart for Cuba and; the Ministry of Agriculture with assistance from the Mexico FAO initiative continues plans to formulate actions, to ensure a food secure nation.

The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, under the ministerial leadership of Hon. Joachim Henry, has presented its full slate of plans and programs for the upcoming fiscal year (2023/24). The annual presentation, which forms part of the budgetary process, was well received by the finance team headed by the Minister for Finance and Prime Minister Hon. Phillip J. Pierre.

In today's headlines: Nobel Laureate Festival month gets on the way and; World Arc sailors depart from Saint Lucia.

Recently, residents participated in an early morning exercise dubbed “Saint Lucia Wake up and Run”. The activity was organized by a member of the community, with support from key agencies such as the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/wake-up-and-run-event-encourages-active-lifestyles

Cuba’s contribution to the strengthening of the island’s health sector through the provision of medical scholarships received another shot in the arm when a new cohort of students left the island this week to undertake studies in the Spanish-speaking Caribbean nation.

Telecommunications company Digicel has presented new scholarships to four students who sat the inaugural CPEA Exams in 2022.

Guided by the trends noted over the last five years and the data from the Behaviour Risk Factor Survey carried out in 2019, primary care/preventative health strengthening remains a major focus for the Ministry of Health. We continue to note low levels of health screening, increases in obesity, low fruit and vegetable intake and limited physical activity among our population. Programs to improve on preventative strategies such as the adoption of healthy lifestyles, early detection and screening will be further strengthened to support the adoption of behaviours to improve the health status of our citizens. The Universal Health Coverage strategy, health system strengthening project and Results Based Financing Project will support the implementation of these programs in 2023. The Ministry of Health encourages all individuals, communities and organizations to partner with us in promoting health and maintaining healthy habits. Together, we can make significant strides in reducing the burden of ill -health on our country.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is aware of a circulating statement on the XBB variant of COVID-19. We wish to inform the public that this statement did not emanate from the Ministry of Health in Saint Lucia and that it contains some misinformation which requires clarification.

The Saint Lucia Blood Bank encourages regular blood donations as a means of creating a strong yet sustainable national blood supply that is sufficient to meeting the needs of all patients requiring a transfusion. Just one pint of blood can save up to three lives!

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs would like to inform the public of its two ongoing surveys, one on Universal Health Coverage and the other on the effects of COVID-19 on diet, exercise and non-communicable diseases. The surveys are meant to gather information to assist the Ministry in developing policies and plans to better serve the population. The survey on the effects of COVID-19 on diet, exercise and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension is being conducted via telephone by a team of trained personnel. The survey on Universal Health Coverage will be conducted online.

Students of the Gros islet Primary School can now pick from a wider selection of books from their library as Hands Across the Sea and CIBC Saint Lucia collaborate and officially hand over educational resources to the school. 

Education technical teams from Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines came together for a week-long workshop to develop educational sector plans to guide the next five years of Education Policy.

Animal slaughtering in Saint Lucia occurs on a weekly basis in abattoirs around the island. The process is guided by procedures set by various different agencies, in order to maintain product and service quality to the general public. In keeping with tradition, abattoirs become busier during the month of December, as more people purchase meat for the Christmas festivities. As a result, the Ministry of Health has joined forces with the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure best practices are kept during the increase in production.

With the goal of ensuring the effective implementation of performance-based financing (PBF) at participating facilities around the island, the Project Implementation Unit has been working with clinical staff at these facilities to build their capacity to capture data and determine outcomes for providing health services for Diabetes and Hypertension. 

The Early Childhood Services Unit of the Ministry of Education has been assisting early childhood administrators island wide, through a recent workshop, to retool and recalibrate as a post COVID-19 era poses different challenges for administrators, students and parents.  

The Soufriere Comprehensive Secondary now has an education alliance with the Jincheng Junior High of Taiwan, thanks to a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Ministry of Education and the Taiwanese Embassy recently. 

As part of efforts to strengthen the health sector’s capacity in responding to emergencies and enhancing health care delivery, the Project Implementation Unit through its Health Systems Strengthening Project recently handed over vehicles, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, laboratory consumables and reagents in a small ceremony.

In today's headlines: Tourism Minister laments the repercussions of violent crime to the economy and; Saint Lucia welcomes the first yacht to cross the finish line in this year's Atlantic Rally for Cruisers.

In today's headlines: Government goes to Parliament to finance key projects and programs and; The Early Childhood Services Unit of the Ministry of Education continues to assist early childhood administrators island wide.

In today's headlines: Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, hands over vehicles to police in the implementation of Government's crime fighting strategy and; Saint Lucia launches its very own Tourism Awards "The Gimmies" to celebrate outstanding stakeholders in the industry.

In today's headlines: UK Government delegation visits the SMART Healthcare facilities in Saint Lucia and; Saint Lucia is one step closer in ascension to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) 

Donors from the United Kingdom continue to provide assistance in the modernization of Saint Lucia’s healthcare systems. The most recent project was the retrofitting of 15 health facilities into SMART facilities. The facilities have been upgraded to green, climate resilient structures. The project was implemented in a number of countries around the region with funding provided by the UK Government and the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/uk-government-delegation-visits-smart-facilities-in-saint-lucia

This year health care in the south of the island received a major upgrade. Improvements to the provision of health care are due to the construction of the Micoud Wellness Centre. Recognition goes towards the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP). DVRP has made major contributions to advances in climate resilience and in this case health care. The Micoud Wellness Centre is a 4000 square foot, client resilient, modern facility. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/dvrp-improves-health-care-in-the-south

In today's headlines: The treasury department launches its micro-payments convenient cheque collection for Soufriere Vieux Fort and; Government of Taiwan comes in for high praise for supporting technology advancement in education.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and and Elderly Affairs informs of the availability of the Influenza vaccine. The flu season generally runs from October to March – a time when there is a notable increase in the number of cases of flu-like illness.

In today's headlines: Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre introduces crime reduction strategies to address public safety; and a delegation from Martinique discusses health care assistance for Saint Lucia.

In Saint Lucia, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is playing its part in educating and providing continuous care for those living with the virus while sensitizing the entire population in a manner that would eliminate any stigmas or discrimination towards those living with the virus.

World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 every year around the world. It is a time for reflection, solidarity with those who are affected, and their families and it is a time to plan even more decisive actions.

World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 every year around the world. It is a time for reflection, solidarity with those who are affected, and their families and it is a time to plan even more decisive actions.

In today’s headlines: The Rhapsody of the Seas is welcomed to Saint Lucia and; Vieux Fort Police Station is set to receive rehabilitation works.

Health sector organizations around the world all joined in the annual observance of World Diabetes Day on Nov. 14, under the theme “Access to Diabetes Care, Education to Protect Tomorrow.” In Saint Lucia, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs kicked off activities with a speech by the Minister for Health, Hon. Moses Jn. Baptiste, who said this year’s focus is on education and demystifying rumors. Family Life Educator within the Ministry of Health, Laurentia Maylor, said activities will take place over a period of two-weeks in health clinics around the island.

A health mission from the Martinique Health University visited Saint Lucia for three days in November. The formal visit allowed for first time introductions since the installation of Saint Lucia’s new government, as well as meeting the new team at the Ministry of Health. The Minister for Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs expressed gratitude for collaborations past and those to come, as the teams work toward preparing a new programme for medical cooperation between the two nations.

In today’s headlines: the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs takes a glimpse back at World Diabetes Day; and one city center school is taking safety and disaster risk reduction to another level.

The Ministry of Education has commended the government and people of Taiwan for its outpouring technological support in advancing instruction in schools on the island. Phase one of Taiwan's ICT in Education Project concluded recently with a small ceremony at the Entrepôt Human Resource Center.

In today’s headlines: The Atlantic Rally For Cruisers begins; and the Ministry of Infrastructure details restoration efforts following the Nov. 6 trough.

In today’s headlines: Vulnerable and at-risk groups to benefit from a USD$5 million "Safety Net" project; and two exceptional Saint Lucian students are given the opportunity to converse with an astronaut.

Representatives from the World Bank recently visited Saint Lucia on a mission aimed at providing guidance to fast-track the launch of the Performance-Based Financing (PBF) pilot programme. The mission focused on the training of key stakeholders on change management and use of funds, providing technical support on the communications component for the PBF launch, providing technical guidance on the legal and operational aspects of the PBF, and providing guidance on global practices on PBF implementation from other countries.

Two exceptional Saint Lucian students got the opportunity to converse with an astronaut on the International Space Station.

In today’s headlines: Ongoing efforts by the Government of Saint Lucia to provide post disaster relief has been further strengthened by the Republic of China, Taiwan and; The Minister of Health sends hope to the people of the south.

In today’s headlines: Three more schools in the south of the island have received multi-media classrooms and; The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment joins the rest of the world in celebrating world children's day.

It has come to the attention of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs that there is information circulating on social media of an outbreak of sexually transmitted infections and the shortage of certain medication to treat some of these conditions. To date, the Ministry of Health would like to inform the public that there is no documented outbreak of sexually transmitted infections in Saint Lucia. The Ministry will continue to monitor and evaluate the trend of sexually transmitted infections on the island. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-affirms-no-outbreak-of-stis

The Attorney General’s Chamber recently held a two-day workshop to strengthen Saint Lucia’s National Risk Assessment Profile to mitigate corruption, tax evasion, fraud, human trafficking, and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.  Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/saint-lucia-set-to-improve-its-national-risk-assessment-profile     

Three more schools in the south of the island have received multimedia classrooms, from the Government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) as one phase of its ICT in Education Project concludes.

In today’s headlines: The Bordelais Correctional Facility undergoes restructuring; and a two day workshop to strengthen Saint Lucia's national risk assessment profile is held.

In today’s headlines: the Government of Saint Lucia secures an EC$16.8 million EU grant; and Saint Lucia attends the 15th Regional Conference on Women in Latin America and the Caribbean.

In today’s headlines: International Children’s Day was observed Nov. 20, under the theme “Inclusion for Every Child”; Saint Lucia celebrated International Men’s Day; and the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports begins the 2022 School Sports Programme.

The Ministry of Health is working to ensure the successful implementation of Performance Based Financing (PBF) at primary health care facilities, following a recent training session on the development of a “Quality of Care” programme for diabetes and hypertension. Performance Based Financing, which will be piloted in 17 primary health care facilities, is expected to improve the management of non-communicable diseases. Performance-based financing is an effective approach to ensure that there is more screening and treatment of diabetic and hypertensive patients at the various primary health care facilities. The "Quality of Care" training sessions help to set a path for better outcomes as it relates to individuals accessing screening and treatment for diabetes and hypertension.

In today's headlines: Vulnerable single mothers have been placed on pathway to business success, and the Department of Finance focuses on responding to new hazards by building resilience into its business strategy.    

The Department of Economic Development recently presented Saint Lucia’s Medium Term Development Strategy (MTDS 2021-2026) at a United Nations organized meeting of Development Partners and the Government of Saint Lucia. The MTDS is the output of extensive stakeholder consultations with the public and private sectors, NGOs, and Civil Society Organisations who interrogated Saint Lucia’s development issues and proposed solutions.

In observance of World Children’s Day on November 20, 2022, the Division of Human Services in tandem with the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment will host a Blue-Ribbon Drive, initiated to promote awareness of child protection, togetherness and well-being. Going blue on World Children’s Day is representative of UNICEF’s mandate to stand for the rights of every child.

In today’s headlines: private and public sector stakeholders anticipate the potential of the use of Geographic Information Systems and the National Spatial Data Infrastructure to collect and use geo-spatial data; and Saint Lucia hosts the SIM General Assembly.

Both private and public sector interests are excited for the implementation and use of geo-spatial data to enhance national and business processes. Geo Spatial data is information that describes objects, events, or other features with a location on or near the surface of the earth. Agricultural Engineer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Joel Ramine, explains that the ministry uses drone technology and imagery to process and assess geo spatial data. For full text, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/stakeholders-elated-for-the-upcoming-national-spatial-data-infrastructure-nsdi-

Students of the Upton Gardens Girls’ Centre now have increased opportunities to benefit from the synchronization of education and information technology (IT). A donation of equipment from the Federal Republic of Germany valued at over €12,500, was presented to Upton Gardens officials, at a ceremony on October 24. The equipment consisted of laptops, smart screen TVs, printers and other computer accessories. For full text, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/upton-gardens-girls-centre-receives-donation-from-federal-republic-of-germany

One school in the city center is taking safety and disaster risk reduction to another level with the installment of its Junior Safety Monitors Programme.

The Department of Finance supported by the World Bank is focused on responding to the next hazard or threat to its operation by building resilience into its business continuity strategy.     The Business Continuity Cycle is an annual program that ensures an organization’s preparedness for disruptions. The cycle can be linked to the fiscal year but is more often tied to a particular business need or threat.  For full text, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/department-of-finance-fine-tunes-business-continuity-strategy

Saint Lucia joins the rest of the world in the observance of World Diabetes Day; and the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project hosts a GIS and NSDI exhibition.

Saint Lucia's upcoming National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) showcase will be from Wednesday, November 16, 2022, to Friday, November 18, 2022, from 9am to 4pm. NSDI is described as technology, policies, standards, criteria and human resources required to coordinate and promote the sharing of geo-spatial data throughout the public and private sector, academia and Non-Governmental Organisations.

The National GIS Exhibition and NSDI showcase 2022 will be held at the Baywalk Mall on Nov. 16 and 18, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/dvrp-to-host-national-gis-exhibition-and-nsdi-showcase

The Government of Saint Lucia through the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs and the Universal Health Coverage Project is set to launch a fact-finding survey. The survey will serve as a digital data collection tool imperative to the imminent launch of the Universal Health Coverage Project.

In today's headlines: An XCD $22.9 Million grant agreement with Japan for redevelopment of Choiseul fishing port has been finalized; and the Minister for Sustainable Development advocates for climate financing at COP 27.

In today's headlines: A UK government delegation visits SMART facilities in Saint Lucia; the Republic of China (Taiwan) assists recovery efforts at the Dame Pearlette Louisy Primary School; and the Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO has announced the winners of its 2022 Kwéyòl Poetry Competition.

November is Mathematics month. Educational districts islandwide have engaged in a series of activities to highlight and celebrate the importance of the subject.

The Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO has announced the winners for its 2022 Kwéyòl Poetry Competition, at a prize-giving ceremony.

In today's headlines: Saint Lucia pilots Security Interest in Movable Property legislation in the OECS; the Human Capital Resilience Project hosts graduation exercise; and French allies strengthen ties with Saint Lucia and the OECS.

Saint Lucian teachers involved in a recent TVET Teacher Immersion Programme of the Ministry of Education’s Human Capital Resilience Project are now prepared to offer more TVET subjects at the secondary level, following a recent graduation exercise at the Mount of Prayer in Coubaril.

The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) said the Security Interest in Movable Property Bill will spur increased economic activity within the local business community. The Bill is intended to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and is a critical step towards a cohesive and inclusive system to promote access to finance and growth within the small business sector. MSMEs will now be able to use their movable assets to secure financing from financial institutions. This new legislation is expected to positively impact national productivity and competitiveness.

Saint Lucia's forensic science laboratory is the first in the OECS to be accredited; the Development Control Authority calls for a collective approach to building resilience; and the Ministry of Health implements programmes to support residents affected by the flash floods. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs advises the general public, particularly those affected by the recent system, that flood waters may be highly contaminated from toxic chemicals, and sewage among other pollutants. As a consequence, the following safety tips must be adhered to. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/post-disaster-flood-tips

In today's headlines: The World Bank provides assistance to islands in the region; the Ministry of Commerce observes Business Month; and a recent weather system underscores Saint Lucia's vulnerability to climate change.

The World Bank continues to be steadfast in providing assistance to islands in the region who are moving steadily towards UHC implementation, as a sustainable development goal to be achieved by 2030. To this end, a Knowledge Exchange Conference was hosted in St. Lucia during the month of October, which focused on improving and strengthening the region’s health sector.

In today's headlines: the Minister for Infrastructure co-ordinates government's response to flash flooding; and the Prime Minister ensures proper management of the St. Jude Hospital reconstruction project; and the Community Tourism Agency has launched.

The Saint Lucia Fire Service is collaborating with the corporate sector, as well as the Ministry of Equity, the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO) and disaster management committees in order to shortlist recipients for this fire prevention initiative. The goal is to distribute 1000 smoke alarms by December 21. Acting Assistant Divisional Officer Mabius Francis commented that the Fire Service has noticed a worrisome link between house fires and low-income households.

In today’s headlines: Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Saint Lucia presented his Letters of Credence to the acting Governor General of Saint Lucia; and the Ministry of Health urges the public to care for their mental health.

The Generation of Employment through Private Sector Development Programme (GEPSED), the agency responsible for the implementation of Saint Lucia’s 2019–2025 National TVET Policy and Strategy, recently hosted a National TVET Symposium, a call to action for all stakeholders. 

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs will work collaboratively with sister agencies, namely the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Ministry of Economic Development to oversee the new St. Jude Hospital reconstruction project. For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-collaborates-on-st-jude-hospital-construction

UN agencies in Saint Lucia joined forces last week, to educate students at the Soufriere Comprehensive Secondary school on the work of the UN in Saint Lucia, and to inspire interest in careers within the UN. The activity was organized in commemoration of UN Day, observed on Oct. 24 worldwide.

In today’s headlines: unemployed and vulnerable single mothers can now benefit from effective micro-enterprise business opportunities; and construction work recommences on the site of St. Jude’s Hospital. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia gets set for COP 27; and the Bordelais Correctional Facility introduces rehabilitative programmes. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

On Thursday, Oct. 27, the Ministry of Health’s Community Health Services Unit took to the streets in the fight against mental health stigma. October 10 is recognized annually as World Mental Health Day, however, the entire month is used to raise awareness of the ongoing issues. This year’s global campaign focused on ending stigma and discrimination against mental illness, by choosing one’s words carefully. Region 8’s Community Mental Health Nurse, Maria Charles Monrose said education is the solution to the problem. “If we want to stop stigma we have to start it with education. So we visited Castries, Bexon, Dennery, Micoud and Mon Repos to share information about mental health and mental illness.”

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Equity strengthens community support systems to tackle cancer and mental health; and the Ministry of Agriculture trains a cohort from the Canaries Community Improvement Foundation in drone safety, for the monitoring of vetiver grass restoration efforts.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly affairs hosted the opening ceremony to a three-day Knowledge Exchange Conference at the Finance Administrative Center on Tuesday, Oct. 25. The Knowledge Exchange Conference is intended to improve health systems resilience and accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage in the Caribbean. The historic event is a first collaboration between the Korea World Bank Partnership Facility and the World Bank.

In today’s headlines: the Hon. Prime Minister speaks with the differently-abled; and the World Health Organization releases the first Global Status Report on physical activity.

In today’s headlines: the Minister for Health lauds the Universal Health Care Flagship Caribbean Knowledge Exchange Conference; and children from Castries are introduced to a slew of creole games and activities as creole heritage month draws to a close.

Vendors/food handlers must follow these guidelines to prevent food-borne illnesses: Wear adequate head covering Be properly attired to handle food Be in possession of a valid health card Be in possession of a valid temporary health license Also observe the Basic Food Safety Principles: Keep foods at required temperature Cold foods 40 °F and below Hot foods 140 °F and above Separate raw from cooked foods Cook foods thoroughly in an effort to kill bacteria Keep all surfaces and environments clean Use safe water and products Wash hands regularly. Before, during and after food handling and after using the washroom Have Separate persons dealing with food and money Change gloves regularly Refrain from wearing jewelry Prepare foods as close as possible to eating time and avoid storing large batches of cooked food at room temperature.

A 5-day workshop hosted by the Caribbean Public Health Agency through funding from the World Banks OECS Regional Health Project, commenced on Monday October 17th in St. Lucia. The Monitoring and Evaluation and Data Analysis session is being hosted for the benefit of the staff of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, as the governmental department focuses on improving the delivery of health services.

In today’s special Kwéyòl edition: A five-day Monitoring and Evaluation workshop hosted by CARPHA commences; and the Fond St Jacques Development Committee launches Saint Lucia’s first Agro-Tourism Park.

A recent pole Vault Summit held on the island is being seen as a significant strategy of the Saint Lucia Sports Academy to further develop the sport on the island. 

In today’s headlines: the Ministry of Commerce prepares to launch the MSME Loan Grant Facility; and the Anglican School reduces its carbon footprint by going paperless.

In today’s headlines: the IICA-led CARICOM AgriReady Regional Workshop engages senior Caribbean agriculture leaders in discussions; and the Minister for Health applauds the efforts of Saint Lucia’s non-governmental organizations in educating the public on breast cancer. 

Minister for Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, Hon. Moses Jn. Baptiste, delivers statement in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

 In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia’s observance of World Food Day 2022 underlines the strategic actions needed to establish food and nutrition security; and staff and children of the New Beginnings Transit Home become SMART facility beneficiaries.

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Agriculture’s Sea Moss Fiesta brings attention to the multitude of opportunities available within the subsector; and International Credit Union Day is observed.

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs hosts a presentation on health financing; and Agriculture leaders deemed the first-ever Sea Moss Fiesta a success. 

The three-day conference held from Oct. 25 to 27, will bring together industry partners to discuss health topics such as non-communicable diseases, hospital sector management, and health management information systems. The conference will host about 70 participants from the Caribbean region, South America and Korea. The event is funded by the Korean World Bank partnership facility in collaboration with the World Bank.

Officials from Saint Lucia’s health sector, both public and private, attended a presentation on health financing earlier this week, hosted by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs. The presentation was facilitated by neurologist, Dr. Kester Nedd, CEO of a group of companies focused on healthcare administration and care management; and was hosted as an activity leading to the implementation of Universal Health Care in Saint Lucia. For details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/health-officials-attend-presentation-on-healthcare-financing

In today’s headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia appoints the first female police commissioner; and Saint Lucians celebrate Fet Magwit in Castries and Soufriere. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

In today’s headlines: the Cannabis Task force is gearing up to host its first symposium; and the Government of Taiwan, though its ICT in Education Project, hands over three more smart classrooms to secondary schools in Saint Lucia.

In today’s headlines: 150 travel advisors ‘Say Yes to Saint Lucia’; and World Standards Day is recognized.

In today's headlines: The Minister for Sustainable Development calls for a behaviour change to save our oceans; and the NCPC begins the annual observance of Productivity Awareness Week.

The government of Taiwan, through its ICT in education project, has handed over three more smart classrooms to secondary schools to experience teaching and learning in a new and exciting manner. 

The World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) has chosen the theme for 2022 ‘’Making Mental Health and wellbeing for all a global priority.’’ Saint Lucia along with the rest of the world observed World Mental Health Day on October 10th. We would like to emphasize that we all have a voice, let us use it to make the world a better place. We can all fight to stop stigma and discrimination. Stigma and discrimination continue to hinder inclusion and access to appropriate care. For more information, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/saint-lucia-observes-world-mental-health-day

The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) gets set to observe the 9th edition of Productivity Awareness Week from Oct. 17 to 21. Director of the NCPC, Lisa Florent-Montoute, said national productivity issues must be tackled collaboratively, particularly by expanding dialogue between the private and public sectors.

In todays' headlines: Saint Lucians set to benefit from major income tax reforms; and the inaugural "Say Yes to Saint Lucia - Global Romance Summit" begins.

Phase Two of the “Smart Healthcare Facilities in the Caribbean Project” included the retrofitting of 13 wellness centers around the island and two government health facilities. These facilities are now expected to provide comfort to patrons and staff, while withstanding the forces of nature.

Phase 2 of the “Smart Healthcare Facilities in the Caribbean Project” included the retrofitting of 13 Wellness Centers around the island and 2 Government Health Facilities. These facilities are now expected to provide comfort to patrons and staff, while withstanding the forces of nature.

The Division of Gender Affairs and the Hon. Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, Minister for the Public Service, Home Affairs, Labour and Gender Affairs, joins in the commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child observed on Oct. 11. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/division-of-gender-affairs-observes-international-day-of-the-girl-child

In today’s headlines: the Ministry of Health provides a general health update, and health and wellness facilities have been made resilient to climate change.

The Department of Health and Wellness continues to register COVID-19 cases daily. Noting the reluctance of the public to get tested, the Ministry of Health is aware that current cases on record are under reported. While hospital admissions are low, we continue to note significant numbers of COVID-19 deaths. Meanwhile, Saint Lucia has tested a total of 16 monkey pox suspect cases, which are all negative. To date, Monkey Pox has not been confirmed in Saint Lucia. The department also continues to receive reports of cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) from healthcare providers and pre- schools on island. Cases of HFMD are recorded annually in Saint Lucia. Early interventions usually limit transmission.

The government and the people of Saint Lucia extend condolences to the government and the people of Venezuela in the wake of the devastating flooding that has unfortunately claimed many lives in Las Tejerías in the State of Aragua in Venezuela. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families who lost their loved ones and those who have lost their homes. Saint Lucia remains grateful to President Nicolás Maduro Moros for the enduring relationship that Venezuela and Saint Lucia continue to share. This friendship dictates that we stand ready to work with the government of Venezuela and the international community to accelerate the necessary interventions for climate resilience and adaptation. Saint Lucia stands in solidarity with the people of Venezuela, especially during this difficult time. 

In today’s headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia has secured more than EC $36.6 million from the European Investment Bank to help strengthen the island’s health sector; and the Saint Lucia Fire Service highlight activities planned for Fire Prevention Week.

In today’s headlines: the OECS continues to focus on disaster cross border management; and the Ministry of Agriculture underscores the importance of clean water to the social and economic fabric of Soufriere. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

A statement by Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre upon learning that the President of the Senate Mr. Stanley Felix was formally charged by police under Section 376 of the Criminal Code of Saint Lucia. https://www.govt.lc/news/revocation-of-mr-stanley-felixs-senatorial-appointment

  In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia and Switzerland improve diplomatic relations; and the Minister for Education is calling for a multi-pronged approach to resolve the student loitering.

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia Carnival 2023 is launched; and the OECS hosts a three-day Cross Border Movement workshop. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Tourism gears up for the commencement of a new cruise season; and the Government of Saint Lucia signs a B.O.L.T agreement for the construction of a new Divisional Police Head Quarters.

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Health issues an update on Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease; and the Calendar of Activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Week is launched.

  In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Health reports on cases of gastroenteritis, and World Maritime Day is observed. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

In today’s headlines: the Ministry of Health unveils the country’s first ever Center of Excellence for the management of NCDs; and an ‘Adopt Older Persons’ initiative is launched.

Schools, workplaces and communities are granted the opportunity to play a part in the promotion of breast health and assist in reducing breast cancer risk. 

Efforts at addressing issues of violence through education and public awareness will again take center stage, as yet another major component in the ongoing Advocacy Campaign Against Crime and Violence is about to be rolled out. Led by the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, this latest intervention is set to coincide with the annual commemoration of International Day of Non-Violence on October 2, 2022. In observance of the day, the Ministry of Equity has planned a series of activities to highlight the issue of gun violence and to call the nation to action against this social ill.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a contagious viral illness commonly seen in young children. It affects mainly children within the age groups of 0 to 5 years but can also affect older children and adults. The virus is spread from an infected person through their  Nose and throat secretions, such as saliva, drool, or nasal mucus  Fluid from blisters or scabs  Feces (poop)  Respiratory droplets when they cough or sneeze

The Ministry of Equity's New Initiative "Adopt an Older Person", will seek to rekindle national commitment to improving the plight of the nation’s vulnerable older population and to encourage cooperation and team-work among people at all levels within society.

The Derniere Riviere Combined School is celebrating its 50th anniversary by paying tribute to the many teachers who have served through the years. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news Government of Saint Lucia www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: Government of Saint Lucia www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia’s Digital GCF No-Objection Procedure Tool is introduced to the National Climate Change Committee; and the Ministry of Health continues efforts to implement Universal Health Coverage. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

Persons presenting with gastroenteritis may experience vomiting which may or may not be accompanied by diarrhea, and/or vomiting which may be accompanied by stomach pain and fever. In most cases, gastroenteritis presents as a self-limiting illness, however children and the elderly are most susceptible to complications. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN Channel 122

In today’s headlines: Further steps are taken in the implementation of Saint Lucia’s Border Control Management System; and public sensitization efforts on the importance of clean water are underway.

In today’s headlines: The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) underlines the importance of Damage Analysis and Needs Assessment (DANA) training; and the SSDF hosts a Business of Music Accelerator Programme aimed at young Saint Lucian producers.

In today’s headlines: the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund continues to concentrate efforts on youth development; and TVET centres remain a priority for the Ministry of Education.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs remains committed to the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Saint Lucia. A coordinated approach toward implementation was demonstrated following the recent establishment of a UHC unit spearheaded by the newly-appointed Director, Dr. Alisha Eugene-Ford. Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN channel 122

In today’s headlines: The Central Statistical Office urges continued public participation as the Saint Lucia Census continues, and the Saint Lucia Homelessness Steering Committee explores coordinated approaches for greater service delivery to the homeless. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

In today’s headlines: the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia attends UNGA 77; and Saint Lucia’s Junior Minister of Tourism attends a special school assembly held in her honor. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

The transformation of some secondary schools into TVET specific centers remains a priority for the government, as the new academic year enters its third week.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) hosted a workshop aimed at strengthening the capacity of participants to detect, notify and investigate ‘Events Supposedly Attributable to Vaccination or Immunization’ (ESAVI), according to national guidelines. Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sharon Belmar-George, said the workshop will allow for the review of the vaccine administration process and the strengthening of the immunization program in Saint Lucia. “The ESAVI surveillance system will provide us with sufficient information in a timely manner so that we are able to register the side effects of vaccines against the adverse reactions. Being able to record every single side effects or adverse reaction will put a lot of confidence in our health system, especially with regard to the administration of new medications and vaccines,” she explained. PAHO International Consultant for Vaccine Safety, Dr. Eden Augustus, said the workshop helps strengthen ESAVI surveillance. He encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained to their daily practices.   “Today’s training demonstrates yet again PAHO’s unwavering support for Caribbean countries in strengthening national immunization programs, of which the surveillance aspect has been one of the weaker areas in the region. The objective of this training is to strengthen ESAVI national surveillance capacities using regional and global standards as a reference, and using tools from epidemiology, data management and analysis, and communication.” The ESAVI workshop focused on areas such as data management and analysis, detection and notification, epidemiology and risk communication.

In today's headlines: Saint Lucia observes seventy seconds of reflection; and a new cohort of certified apiculturists have been welcomed into the fold. 

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia’s process of accession to the Appellate Jurisdiction of the Caribbean Court of Justice continues, and the Minister for Equity reiterates his commitment to improving conditions at the Dunnottar School. 

Following the recent launch of the “Saint Lucia Moves” campaign, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs issued a call to individuals to remain active and strive for improved health. The Saint Lucia Moves campaign is aimed at reducing the burden of NCDs by encouraging individuals and organisations to promote and support healthy behaviors through various interventions.

  In today’s headlines: the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council introduces the ProTool; and Creole Heritage Month is launched.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs joined in the movement to raise awareness of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), following a Caribbean Wellness Day festival held in the William Peter Boulevard. The activity focused on ways in which individuals can engage in healthy lifestyles such as nutritious eating, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, being physically active and getting regular health checks. 

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia is working toward increasing its immunization coverage following a decline in the routine immunization of children; and the Caribbean Research and Development Insititute (CARDI) collaborates with the Ministry of Agriculture to host a training exercise on the coconut weevil.

In today’s headlines: The Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association brings attention to children’s eye health, and a Mandarin pilot project is launched in schools.

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia observes a period of mourning following the passing of Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II; and the Government of Saint Lucia has approved a 30 percent subsidy for banana farmers.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), recently held an immunization workshop aimed at building the capacity of public health nursing supervisors, community nurses and other key health professionals to increase immunization coverage in Saint Lucia.

In today’s headlines, the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J Pierre conveys condolences to the British Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

In today’s headlines: A spotlight on the Taiwan Train the Trainers lantern design and construction virtual workshop; and the Ministry of Equity holds a Community Career/Job Fair at the Marchard Playing Field.

A major step toward the teaching of mandarin in schools was made recently with the launch of a Mandarin Pilot Project. 

Teachers from around the island engaged in the teacher immersion programme recently, under the Human Resilience Capacity Building Project to strengthen and expand TVET offerings and capacity in schools to secure alternative pathways for young students in the job market. 

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is closely monitoring the number of Dengue Fever cases recorded on the island. For the month of August, Saint Lucia has recorded 3 cases of Dengue Fever, however a total of 13 cases of Dengue Fever has been recorded for the year 2022. The Ministry of Health continues to maintain active disease surveillance and is encouraging persons to be remain vigilant against contracting vector borne diseases like Dengue Fever.

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia is well on its way to transforming the health system and shaping the future of health services in country; and Hon. Philip J. Pierre continues to pursue development opportunities.

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Education is exploring alternative learning pathways in schools; and first form students from Castries East have been commended for their academic achievements by the Prime Minister. 

In today’s headlines: The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean is projecting Saint Lucia’s economy will realize the highest GDP growth among Eastern Caribbean Currency Union Member States; and students of secondary and primary schools have started the academic year with new laptops and tablets.

After review and assessments, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs announces further adjustments to the public health measures in response to COVID-19:  The wearing of face masks is optional but remains highly recommended to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 particularly in closed settings or where many persons are gathered such as: - Health Services - Elderly Care Homes and Institutions - Educational Facilities/Schools - Religious institutions - Correctional Facilities such as prisons / Boys Training Center, etc. Hand sanitization and temperature checks are also recommended but optional based on each institution’s policy. There have been some adjustments to the quarantine protocols based on the mode of transmission of the disease and the recent trends observed in in the disease: - Asymptomatic contacts of a positive case identified through the contact tracing process can continue to work or attend classes but must wear a mask. Should they become symptomatic whilst at work or school they should immediately isolate and test. - Symptomatic contacts of a positive case should be tested and must isolate at home pending test results.

Saint Lucia is well on its way to transforming the health system and shaping the future of health services in country. 

Medical Surveillance Officer, Dr. Dana DaCosta Gomez, of the Ministry of Health and Wellness delivers an address on "Maintaining a Healthy School Environment."

Minister for Education, Hon. Shawn Edward addresses the nation on the reopening of school for the 2022-2023 academic year. LIVE at 8 p.m. Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122

In today’s headlines: Revised COVID-19 protocols go into effect today; and the Ministry of Education facilitates the process of school reopening with a myriad of resources.

Students of Secondary and Primary School are set to Start the Academic Year with new laptops and tablets as the Ministry of Education continues to roll out its ICT mandate of one laptop per child to support the educational needs of students.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness & Elderly Affairs encourages people to obtain medicines only from a pharmacy. The Pharmacy Act Cap. 11.21 prescribes four (4) different categories of medicines. 1. Controlled. 2. Over-the-counter medicines (OTC). 3. Pharmacist Assisted. 4. Prescription-only. Full text: https://www.govt.lc/news/guidelines-on-medicines-and-prescriptions Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN channel 122

The following changes to the protocols will take effect from Monday September 5, 2022: General Protocols: The physical distance and mass crowd limitation protocol is removed. The capacity restriction on public transportation has been removed but mask wearing is required. The hand sanitation and temperature checks on entry of business establishments is optional and at the discretion of the service provider. Full authorization is granted for the importation and use of rapid antigen tests. Business establishments reserve the right to implement public health measures as required. Face Mask Mandate: In general, the wearing of face masks is optional but remains highly recommended to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Face masks are mandated in the following circumstances: if one has tested positive for COVID-19, has respiratory symptoms or is a direct contact of a positive case, accessing general health services, accessing police and fire stations, correctional facilities, elderly homes, attending religious ceremonies where there are large crowds of people in close contact, educational institutions, in enclosed crowded environments and accessing public transportation. Educational Sector: All school activities have been re-established with the strict enforcement of keeping sick children at home. The mask is mandated during assemblies and activities in school with large numbers in enclosed spaces. The enhanced cleaning and sanitation of schools to be maintained. Travel Protocols: The testing and vaccination requirement for entry into Saint Lucia is removed. Passengers would be required to fill out the health screening form for arrival into our country. For full text, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/saint-lucia-updates-covid-19-protocols

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia's tourism industry is on course for robust expansion; and the means of adapting to socio-economic shocks is part of Saint Lucia’s new National Social Protection Policy.  

Minister for Education, Hon. Shawn Edward delivers statement on the reopening of school for the 2022/2023 academic year.

In today’s headlines: 758 Pride promotes youth safety and call for an end to discrimination; and the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment assists Saint Lucia through the formation of COVID-19 support programmes.

The government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) continues to express its commitment to provide Saint Lucians with more opportunities to further their studies.

The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), recently hosted food safety and water quality training with the aim of building the capacity of environmental health personnel to monitor food and water quality, and investigate outbreaks of food and water borne diseases.

In today’s headlines: the Ministry of Commerce and the Taiwan technical mission work toward business development and economic recovery in Saint Lucia; and an updated National Social Protection Policy will improve the lives of people with disabilities. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

In today’s headlines: The Minister for Agriculture comments on the efforts being made within his industry; and Saint Lucia explores the introduction of a referral system. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

In today’s headlines: UNICEF advocates for educational reform in an evolving world; and USAID officials get a first-hand assessment of the BTC. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

  In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia recognizes UNESCO’s International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition; and UNICEF recognizes the challenges presented to children by the COVID-19 pandemic.  For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has engaged the services of Meirovich Consulting to assist with the development of a referral system within healthcare facilities. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar-George explained that Meirovich Consulting will assess the current system with a view to improve efficiency. For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-to-develop-referral-system Watch: www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment NTN channel 122

In today’s headlines: learning poverty is cited as a negative within the Eastern Caribbean; and UNICEF affirms its commitment to children. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/saintluciagovernment www.youtube.com/saintluciagovernment www.twitter.com/saintluciagov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

Seven students formerly from the Vieux Fort Comprehensive and Choiseul Secondary schools are recipients of new laptops provided by the Ministry of Education to assist their studies in Jamaica. The seven students, Jada Emmanuel, Vanni Henry, Keithan Monero, Genevieve John, Deshawn Fanis, Jaheim Ferdinand and Lester Emmanuel, who attained athletics scholarships, were rewarded a laptop each.

In today’s headlines: Collaborative efforts of the Government of Saint Lucia and the World Bank Group have led to the facilitation of the Human Capital Resilience Project; and the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force are once again in receipt of American-supported training.

A five-day training workshop hosted by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), is underway. The advance IPC training provided participants with the opportunity to review the infection prevention and control policies and guidelines for health care services.

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia is set for a revised National Social Protection Policy; and UNICEF representative for the Eastern Caribbean presents his credentials to the Permanent Secretary of External Affairs.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs recently handed over biomedical equipment to the Comfort Bay Senior Citizens Home. The equipment is expected to improve the level of medical services provided to clients at the facility. Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Jenny Daniel, said she is confident that the biomedical equipment will assist the facility in the care of its clients.

Police Commissioner, Mr. Milton Desir, expressed elation for US support to the Marine unit in its efforts against narcotics.

In today's headlines: the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia attends the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo II in Trinidad; and accessibility for residents and motorists is prioritized in La Borne. 

In today's headlines: President of the Caribbean Development Bank promotes innovation as a tool for social growth; and the Minister for Gender Affairs Hon. Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, praises Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred for her stellar performance at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.twitter.com/SaintLuciaGov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

In today’s headlines: the Prime Minister prioritizes finding solutions to issues affecting youth development; and the Ministry of the Home Affairs works toward improved working conditions for the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.twitter.com/SaintLuciaGov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

Four young Saint Lucians are heading off to Hungary to pursue undergraduate studies as part of a 3-year co-operation memorandum signed between The Ministry of Education Saint Lucia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hungary.  Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122

Under the stewardship of Prime Minister and Minister responsible for National Security Hon. Philip J. Pierre, operational and tactical capacity in the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force's Special Services Unit, has been bolstered. Dozens of police officers attached to the SSU Special Services Unit have successfully completed an intense basic training course designed to reinforce crime fighting efforts in Saint Lucia.  Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122

Home help caregivers in the Castries basin were the most recent recipients of training sessions on infection prevention and control measures aimed at providing them with the tools to perform their daily duties safely. Health Educator in the Bureau of Health Education, Mrs. Janelle Alexander-Dupre, said it is important for caregivers receive this knowledge on infection prevention and control, so as to ensure they remain healthy for themselves and their clients. Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122

In today’s headlines: the Government of Saint Lucia prioritizes motorist and pedestrian safety with the rehabilitation of northern roads; and the Ministry of Tourism welcomes the new Junior Minister. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.twitter.com/SaintLuciaGov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

In today’s headlines: the Castries to Gros-Islet Highway is renamed; and the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment suggests solar modems and pre-paid electricity for vulnerable households.

In today’s headlines: The Ministry of Agriculture releases information about the upcoming Sea Moss Fiesta; and assaults against the homeless are on the increase to the dismay of the Ministry of Equity.

In today’s headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia works toward safeguarding state resources from misappropriation; and Taiwan and Saint Lucia partner to facilitate empowerment programs for women after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ministry of Health remains committed to ensuring that COVID-19 vaccines are available and accessible to all eligible populations. Over the last two weeks, Saint Lucia received 7800 doses of Pediatric Pfizer: 3000 doses from the Government of Spain; and an additional 4800 doses through the COVAX facility. The younger population ages 5 to 11 years can now get the much-needed protection against COVID-19 and its complications. These vaccines will further complement the existing COVID-19 vaccines available to the people of Saint Lucia. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/introduction-of-pediatric-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122

The National Enrichment Learning Unit (NELU) has embarked on a mission to align all their course offerings with that of CVQ Standards, granting students more scope and portability with their certification upon completion. 

Saint Lucia's Ministry of Health has provided an update on recent diseases of concern. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/public-health-update Watch: www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment

In today’s headlines: The Millennium Highway and West Coast Reconstruction Project is set to improve road safety; and Saint Lucia’s Commonwealth athletes are given an official welcome home in the House of Assembly.

The Government of Saint Lucia recently accepted receipt of 5000 ampules of Midazolam from the Government of Brazil to assist in the treatment of COVID-19 cases and other medical conditions.

In today’s headlines: the Minister for Agriculture announces a recommencement of the export of bananas to the UK; and the Savannes Bay fisheries facility has been handed over to the Goodwill Fishermen Co-operative Society Ltd.

In today’s headlines: Ambassador-Designate of the Bolvarian Republic of Venezuela presents her credentials to the Governor General of Saint Lucia; and the Minister for Home Affairs joins the Marine Unit in celebrating Tiller Day.

In observance of Breastfeeding Week from August 1 to 7, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs ensures activities are focused on promoting and supporting breastfeeding. 

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred wins silver at the Commonwealth Games; and bus drivers benefit from a health fair facilitated by the Ministry of Health.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs brings health services to the bus drivers of Gros-Islet, Monchy and Grande Riviere. See full press release, here: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-education-hosts-health-fair-for-minibus-association-members Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122

In today's headlines: Emancipation Activities continue; and Saint Lucia's history, cultural heritage and indigenous language to be studied in Saint Lucian schools.

In today's headlines: Emancipation activities in Saint Lucia have been revitalized; and the Ministry of Equity hosts an Employment Readiness Fair. For details on these updates and more, visit: www.govt.lc/news www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.twitter.com/SaintLuciaGov www.instagram.com/saintluciagovernment/ https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia

In today’s headlines: Saint Lucia’s consciousness is evoked through Emancipation 2022; and CARILEC’s new project encourages energy efficiency.

Although the new ePassport facility has gone live, the Immigration Department is reminding the public the current machine readable passports are still valid for travel. That means your machine readable passport will still be accepted at air and seaports around the world. Assistant Superintendent in charge of the Immigration Department, Sean Alexander, explains.

In today’s headlines: Hon. Joachim Henry welcomes the FLOW home communications relief bundle; and EMTs receive pre-hospital medical emergency training.

After a two-year hiatus, schools across the island engaged in their graduation exercises marking the end of 2021/2022 Academic. Minister for Education Shawn Edward joined several of the exercises to celebrate the students’ achievements.

District Three primary school teachers utilized a Taiwan-sponsored multimedia smart classroom, located at the St. Joseph’s Convent to conduct a planning session for the new academic year.

In today’s headlines: The judiciary will now have the legal authority to impose longer prison sentences and steeper fines on people convicted for illegal firearm and ammunition offences; and consumers in the Caribbean will soon benefit from more efficient payment systems.

The Respiratory Hospital is undertaking a five-day training with fire personnel and emergency medical services EMS personnel on pre-hospital medical emergency services. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/pre-hospital-medical-emergency-services-training Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122

In today’s headlines: the Government of Saint Lucia aids in helping citizens with the rise in inflation; and growth and recovery in the ECCU post COVID-19 era is the main focus of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank.

The Bureau of Health Education within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has received support through UNICEF to ensure continued efforts at COVID-19 infection prevention and control in communities. One component of this support entails conducting a series of training seminars with key partners in communities. One of the targeted partners are the Home Help Caregivers. The Choiseul Caregivers were recently provided with this training. For complete details, visit: https://www.govt.lc/news/ipc-training-for-choiseul-caregivers

In today's headlines: Saint Lucia launches the ePassport ; and the new Chair of the ECCB  provides a breakdown of his people-focused policy agenda to be implemented over the next 12 months.

The St. Jude Hospital has received a donation of two significant pieces of medical equipment from the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs. The donation of a hematology analyzer and an immunoassay analyzer is expected to strengthen the delivery of diagnostic testing.

All of the suspected cases' test results were negative for the Monkeypox virus. As of Friday July 22, there is no confirmed case of Monkeypox in Saint Lucia. The Ministry of Health is encouraging persons who develop fever, headache, back pain, muscle ache, weakness, swollen lymph nodes and a rash to go to the nearest health care facility for assessment. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/update-on-suspected-cases-of-monkeypox Watch: www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment www.youtube.com/SaintLuciaGovernment NTN channel 122