St Lucia PM cuts funding to island's National Trust

The Saint Lucia National Trust (SLNT) has had its government funding removed by Prime Minister Allen Chastanet.

The nation's parliament is currently discussing budget estimates, and a $700,000 contribution from the PM’s office has been removed by Chastanet.

Critics describe the move as politically motivated due to the SLNT’s voicing of environmental concerns, in particular the ‘Pearl of the Caribbean’ project.

This is the first time since the SLNT was formed in 1975 that the government has chosen to withdraw financial support.

The move has drawn criticism by the opposition Saint Lucia Labour Party, who vowed to restore the funding if they elected.

‘Decision motivated by retaliation’

Local sources suggest that Chastanet’s decision has caused unrest among his own party.

Philip J Pierre, leader of the Saint Lucia Labour Party, said the move was petty and “reeking of victimisation”.

“It is clear that the move by Mr Chastanet as minister for finance is in retaliation to the Saint Lucia National Trust’s principled position on the Dolphin Park at Pigeon Island National Landmark, and the DSH Project and its environmental impacts,” he added.

The multi-billion ‘Pearl of the Caribbean' resort and lifestyle development was not only opposed by the SLNT but by numerous conservationists around the world, including Tracey Devaux – daughter of the late St Lucia conservationist Robert Devaux.

One focus of criticism is the plan to link the mainland to the Maria Islands Nature Reserve – one of only two wildlife reserves in St Lucia.

Opponents say this move would have a devastating effect on native species who live in the protected area.