Ernest Hilaire excited to be sworn in as parliamentarian again

Deputy Prime Minister of St Lucia Ernest Hilaire shared the highlights of his work after the SLP government assumed office after July 26, 2021 elections. He said he is excited about the formal opening of the Parliament. "Tomorrow, we have the formal opening of Parliament. I look forward to being sworn in again as a Parliamentarian representing Castries South. That is my first and foremost responsibility." wrote Mr Ernest Hilaire on Facebook. He said the second week of the government is starting from Monday, August 16, while his first week in the office was basically meeting various agencies which fall under his portfolio and getting an understanding of what transpired for the last five years. He said it also involved spelling out the vision of the new government for the next five years. "The biggest issue for last week was engaging Virgin Airlines to return to Saint Lucia. Without much fanfare and boast, we were able to work with Virgin Airlines on their return. I am most grateful to the SLHTA, staff of SLTA and the Ministry of Tourism for all their hard work." stated the Deputy Prime Minister.

Furthermore, he said the government had been heavily engaged in discussion on changing the approach to managing COVID-19. He said the government set forth an approach that is based on moral suasion rather than coercion.

"We want to trust Saint Lucians and for Saint Lucians to trust us. We will consult and appeal for all Saint Lucians to play their part," stated Ernest Hilaire. He said the consultations would continue this week with more stakeholders. Deputy Prime Minister also said the government is going to start the process of speaking to various people to serve on the Boards which fall under the Ministry of Tourism portfolio.

The St Lucia Labour Party made a tremendous victory on July 26, 2021, by thrashing the United Workers' Party-led government.