Dy PM Hilaire aims to create designated area for events, entertainment in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism and Creative Industries Ernest Hilaire remains steadfast in his goal to create a designated area for events and other entertainment purposes in Saint Lucia. With this development, the Minister aims to address friction between the sporting and entertainment sectors due to deteriorating facilities. Hilaire confirmed that the government would provide incentives for private entities who also wish to set up entertainment areas.

The Ministry, during Monday’s pre cabinet press briefing said that in recent times, the utilisation of sporting facilities as event venues has caused friction between the sporting and entertainment sectors due to the continuous deterioration of the facilities.

Earlier this year, he also pointed out that in the interim one is forced to make greater use of the sites which are available because of practical constraints. However, it is not his wish to disrupt sporting activities either.

While revealing his plans, Minister Ernest Hilaire said that he is sensitive to the fact that the country needs to have dedicated facilities so that the Government does not have to put off sporting events because they are going to have a entertainment event.

When asked the question of whether the government would provide incentives to private entities with the same goal as the government to set up entertainment areas, the Minister stated that the answer is an obvious yes.

He outlined, “I think if any entity wants to set up any private interest, wants to set up an entity of venue, they can approach the government for incentives.”

It is to be noted that the Minister first proposed plans for a designated entertainment venue at the February 5 pre-cabinet press briefing after various concerns over the conditions of various sporting facilities, particularly in the north of Saint Lucia. This shows the Tourism Minister’s commitment and dedication towards enhancing every possible sector under his Ministry, which will not only benefit the citizens but also turn out to be positive for the country as a whole.