Prime Minister Pierre addresses Saint Lucians on 43rd Independence Day

Castries: St Lucia is commemorating its 43rd Independence day today. On occasion, Prime Minister of St Lucia - Philip J Pierre, in a video message, wished the population of the Caribbean island under the theme 'Douvan Ansanm - Celebrating our people'.

PM Pierre, in his message, encouraged the St Lucian population to be responsible citizens towards their country, especially at times of pandemic.

He asserted, "If each one of us today pledges now to be the best citizens we can, we would immediately see a positive change in the number of road accidents, less pollution, we would see a reduction in the negative impact of the COVID-19, we would in consequence, place less stress on the public purse, on our health facilities and those who work hard to deliver the best possible service, in short, what I am advocating is that we turn a new leaf and start doing more for our country by doing better for ourselves."

"Your government, freed from the available burdens, will be in a better position to do for you what you cannot do for yourself. Our government will not encourage strife and division within our Saint Lucian family. In such unnatural battles, there can be no winners, only losers", the prime minister added.

He noted that the elections could be good or bad, good as in if it is utilized for the betterment of society and bad when the elections are only seen as opportunities to benefit "from selfish behaviour, regardless of which side wins, we all lose. A half-successful Saint Lucia is a totally unsuccessful Saint Lucia".

The youth is considered as 'greatest asset' in the growth and development of the country, who at present is at greatest risk from crime, anti-social behaviour and as well as poverty, Prime Minister Pierre underlined in his first Independence Day address.

"We must achieve inter-generational exchange and rebalancing, so our youth is not left frustrated, marginalized and depressed. Our youth economy agenda is aimed at creating opportunities for young people to become financially independent and create new wealth. They will be given an opportunity to create new and sustainable livelihoods by transforming hobbies into entrepreneurship and skills into businesses".

"Our youth will be permitted to dream, imagine, create, innovate, invest, take risks, forming the core of economic growth and development. What I see is today is that, we can solve our problems if we learn from our past. We can solve them if each one helps one, for greatness exists in our country.

"Let us move forward together confidently, collaboratively calmly and purposefully. Happy Independence Day", PM Pierre quoted.