AGP Executive Report

Youth and Literacy: Olympic champion Julien Alfred donated 50 books about her journey to Diverse Classroom Books at her former school, Ciceron Primary, to encourage young readers. Tourism and Regional Links: Saint Lucia joined Caribbean tourism ministers in a discussion on competitiveness and sustainable growth, with regional travel connections highlighted as a key priority. Economic Outlook: The World Bank projects Saint Lucia’s economy will grow by 1.1% in 2026, after contracting 0.6% last year, as tourism-dependent economies face a slower recovery. Public Utilities: WASCO has launched online bill payment, digital bill and balance viewing, and a phone balance-enquiry service. Anse Cochon Inquiry: Public hearings into the July boat collision that killed four people are set to begin Tuesday, October 13, at the Parliament Building. Workplace Standards: Labour officers have inspected several Soufrière establishments to check compliance with the Labour Act and working conditions.

Violence Prevention: Saint Lucian commentators are urging action to protect women and prevent crime, arguing that policing and punishment alone cannot address the roots of violence. Customer Services: WASCO has launched online bill payment, digital bill and balance viewing, and a phone balance service. Economic Outlook: The World Bank forecasts Saint Lucia’s economy will grow by 1.1% in 2026, after a 0.6% contraction last year, as tourism-dependent economies face a slower recovery. Regional Relations: Janet Caroo has been accredited as Saint Lucia’s ambassador to CARICOM, with regional cooperation high on the agenda as the country chairs the Community. Workplace Standards: Labour officers have inspected establishments across Soufrière to check compliance with the Labour Act and working conditions. Anse Cochon Inquiry: Public hearings into the July boat collision that killed four people are set to begin Tuesday at the Parliament Building.

Public Safety: Recent commentary on violence against women and wider crime argues that policing and punishment alone cannot address the problem; prevention, education and better protection for vulnerable people are needed. Water Services: WASCO has launched online bill payment and account services. It is also preparing a EC$13.2 million upgrade to the Theobalds plant, now operating at about 40 per cent capacity and serving more than 40,000 customers. Regional Diplomacy: Janet Caroo has been accredited as Saint Lucia’s ambassador to CARICOM, as the country chairs the regional bloc. Economic Outlook: The World Bank forecasts 1.1 per cent growth for Saint Lucia in 2026, after a 0.6 per cent contraction last year, citing a slower recovery among tourism-dependent economies. Anse Cochon Inquiry: Public hearings into the July boat collision that killed four people are due to begin on October 13 at the Parliament Building. Workplace Standards: Labour officers have inspected businesses in Soufrière to check compliance with the Labour Act and workplace conditions.

Workplace Standards: Labour officers inspected businesses across Soufrière, checking conditions and employment practices against the Labour Act. Anse Cochon Inquiry: Public hearings into the July 18 boat collision that killed four people are due to begin Tuesday, October 13, at the Parliament Building. Economic Outlook: The World Bank forecasts Saint Lucia’s economy will grow by 1.1% in 2026, after contracting 0.6% last year, as tourism-dependent Caribbean economies face high energy and transport costs. Cost of Living: Government has provided a subsidy to offset higher fuel prices. Water Supply: WASCO is advancing a EC$13.2 million upgrade to the Theobalds treatment plant, now operating at about 40% efficiency and serving more than 40,000 customers. Business Support: Blue Economy businesses in Saint Lucia, Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines will have a final chance to apply for OECS grant funding, with the call launching October 30.

Workplace Standards: Labour officers inspected eight Soufrière workplaces, checking conditions and compliance with the Labour Act and reminding employers of their legal responsibilities. Economic Outlook: The World Bank forecasts Saint Lucia’s economy will grow 1.1% in 2026, after contracting 0.6% last year, as tourism-dependent Caribbean economies face higher energy and transport costs. Anse Cochon Inquiry: Public hearings into the fatal July boat collision begin October 13 at Parliament, with the commission tasked with examining the circumstances of the crash that killed four people. Water Supply: WASCO is selecting a contractor for a EC$13.2 million upgrade to the Theobalds treatment plant, which serves more than 40,000 customers and is operating at about 40% efficiency. Business Support: Blue Economy businesses in Saint Lucia can apply for a final round of OECS matching grants for projects in fisheries, marine tourism and waste management. Youth Innovation: Saint Lucian students represented the island at the FIRST Global robotics challenge in South Korea, with support from local technology company Orbtronics.

Concacaf Nations League: Saint Lucia stayed in the hunt for Group B’s top spot with a 1-0 win over Guadeloupe, but Barbados moved ahead after a late comeback victory over Bermuda. Saint Lucia has nine points, one behind Barbados. Selgado Appeal: The Caribbean Court of Justice heard the DPP’s appeal against the overturning of Oscar Selgado’s conviction. Arguments focused on whether a key witness’s statement could be admitted without cross-examination. Water Supply: WASCO is preparing a EC$13.2 million upgrade to the Theobalds treatment plant, which serves more than 40,000 customers and is operating at about 40 per cent efficiency. Work could begin in November. Cost of Living: Government subsidies will keep several fuel prices unchanged through October 25, despite rising import costs. Economic Outlook: The World Bank projects Saint Lucia’s economy will grow by 1.1 per cent in 2026, below its 2.2 per cent forecast for Latin America and the Caribbean. Business Support: OECS blue economy businesses in fisheries, marine tourism and waste management can seek matching-grant funding through a final call opening October 30.

Water Service: WASCO is moving toward a EC$13.2 million upgrade of the Theobalds plant, which serves more than 40,000 customers and is operating at 40 per cent efficiency. Work could begin in November, with completion targeted for December 2027. Customers can also now pay bills online with instant account updates. Economic Outlook: The World Bank projects Saint Lucia’s economy will grow 1.1 per cent in 2026 after contracting 0.6 per cent last year. Housing: Parliament approved a government guarantee for a US$20 million loan to support affordable home construction, repairs and renovations, though the Opposition raised concerns about access. Regional Justice: The CCJ opened its first itinerant sitting in Saint Lucia as its president reported filings up 40 per cent and called for greater public access. Business Support: Blue Economy businesses in Saint Lucia can apply for a final round of OECS grants for fisheries, marine tourism and waste management. Cost of Living: Government subsidies will hold prices steady for several fuel products through October 25, cushioning consumers from rising import costs. Youth Innovation: Saint Lucian students are representing the country at an international robotics competition in South Korea.

Digital Services: WASCO has launched 24-hour online bill payment, with customers able to view balances and bills and receive instant account updates. Fuel Costs: Government subsidies will keep several fuel prices unchanged through October 25 as rising import costs add pressure on households and businesses. Education and Innovation: The Education Ministry is costing upgrades to make schools more accessible to students with disabilities, while Saint Lucian students are showcasing their robotics skills at the FIRST Global Challenge in South Korea. Economic Outlook: The World Bank projects Saint Lucia’s economy will grow 1.1% this year, after an estimated 0.6% contraction in 2025, and forecasts growth of 2.1% in 2027. Housing: Parliament approved a government guarantee for a US$20 million Development Bank loan to support home construction, repairs and other housing needs; Opposition senators raised concerns about access. Regional Relations: Saint Lucia’s new CARICOM ambassador, Janet Caroo, says her priorities include expanding opportunities for workers and students and strengthening trade links for local businesses.

Fuel Costs: The government has increased subsidies to cushion rising import costs, keeping gasoline, diesel, kerosene and 20- and 22-pound cooking-gas prices unchanged through October 25. Economic Outlook: The World Bank projects Saint Lucia’s economy will grow 1.1% in 2026 after an estimated 0.6% contraction last year, while warning that high energy and transport costs continue to weigh on tourism-dependent islands. Housing: Parliament approved a government guarantee for a US$20 million Development Bank loan to help low- and middle-income households finance homes, repairs and upgrades; Opposition members raised concerns about access. Food Security: Ahead of World Food Day, Agriculture Minister Lisa Jawahir called for more local production, climate-resilient farming and stronger markets to help Saint Lucia feed itself. Tourism Infrastructure: Cruise-season upgrades to Castries’ waterfront and Soufrière have been delayed by supply problems, with major improvements now expected next season. Regional Affairs: Dr. Janet Caroo has been accredited as Saint Lucia’s ambassador to CARICOM, pledging to push for regional cooperation that delivers practical benefits.

Regional Relations: Dr. Janet Caroo has been accredited as Saint Lucia’s new ambassador to CARICOM, with a pledge to make regional integration deliver practical benefits. Economic Outlook: The World Bank projects 1.1% growth for Saint Lucia in 2026, after an estimated 0.6% contraction last year, while warning that high energy and transport costs weigh on tourism-dependent economies. Housing: Parliament approved a government guarantee for a US$20 million Development Bank loan to support home construction, repairs and other housing needs; opposition members raised concerns about access to the financing. Tourism: Cruise season is approaching, but upgrades to Castries’ waterfront and Soufrière cruise facilities will not be completed in time, Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire says, citing delays in getting materials. Energy: Geothermal exploration is underway in Saltibus, Fond St Jacques and Belle Plaine, with road and well-pad work expected to follow. Football: Saint Lucia beat Guadeloupe 1-0 to secure a third straight Nations League win and move to the top of Group B. Crime: Three people have been charged after police found a gun, ammunition, cannabis resin and cash during a search in Bexon.

Housing & Finance: Parliament approved a US$20m Government guarantee for a Saint Lucia Development Bank loan to expand low- to middle-income housing finance, with the Opposition raising access concerns. Economy Outlook: The World Bank projects Saint Lucia growth of 1.1% in 2026 after a 0.6% contraction in 2025, citing tourism recovery limits and high energy/transport costs. Tourism & Ports: Cruise season is nearing, but Castries waterfront upgrades won’t be finished in time; Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire says the “big season” is likely next year. Energy & Jobs: Geothermal exploration is now ongoing in Saltibus, Fond St Jacques and Belle Plaine, with displaced families relocated and bidding nearing completion. Crime & Courts: Three charged after a Bexon search turned up a Glock 19 pistol, ammunition, cash and cannabis resin. Sports: Saint Lucia extended its Concacaf Nations League run with a 1-0 win over Guadeloupe, while the wider region’s matches also delivered key results. Community & Culture: Kwéyòl Heritage Month launched with a call for Kwéyòl-la Sé Sa Nou Tout, naming host communities for Jounen Kwéyòl Day. Health: Free breast cancer screenings are available through the SLUHC Universal Health Coverage programme, including 3D mammograms and follow-up services. Regional Scholarship: Kaia Kydd won a regional scholarship, while Rayshawn Charles secured a second-year renewal under the Pearl Allison Lake Scholarship Fund.

Regional Tourism & Agriculture: Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett wants ALEX expanded into a Caribbean-wide agrolinkages exchange to connect farmers with tourism buyers across islands, including potential links from Grenada nutmeg producers to Saint Lucia hotels. Saint Lucia Politics & Governance: Former PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves will travel to St. Lucia to deliver a historic address to a joint session of the House of Assembly and Senate marking 75 years of universal adult suffrage. Health & Community: A Cas En Bas student injured on Sept. 18 is still awaiting elective surgery, with her mother urging support as the wait drags on. Sports: Saint Lucia beat Guadeloupe 3-0 in Concacaf Nations League action in Barbados, with Caniggia Elva scoring from the spot and Arkell Jude-Boyd and Donavan Phillip adding goals. Energy & Infrastructure: Saint Lucia’s geothermal exploration is now ongoing in Saltibus, Fond St Jacques and Belle Plaine, with displacement and consultations already underway. Road Safety: GK Insurance is urging motorists to drive carefully this Thanksgiving weekend amid ongoing concerns about fatalities and serious crashes.

Public Finance Shock: St. Vincent’s security minister St Clair Leacock says the government is “broke,” pointing to crumbling public facilities and urging frank, transparent communication. Parliament Watch: Former PM Ralph Gonsalves will travel to St. Lucia for a historic joint address marking 75 years of universal adult suffrage. Diplomacy & Taiwan: A UPI analysis says Belize, St. Lucia and other Caribbean allies are pushing at the UN for Taiwan’s meaningful participation as support shrinks elsewhere. Energy Update: Saint Lucia’s geothermal exploration is now ongoing in Saltibus, Fond St Jacques and Belle Plaine, with relocation and next steps moving toward civil works and drilling. Housing Push: Government targets home ownership with EC$54m in affordable housing financing via the Saint Lucia Development Bank. Youth Policy: Minister Kenson Casimir calls for accelerated action on the National Youth Policy and Action Plan 2025–2030. Road Safety: GK Insurance urges motorists to drive carefully this Thanksgiving weekend. Sports: Saint Lucia beat Guadeloupe 3-0 in Concacaf Nations League, while local cricket mourns the sudden death of Choiseul’s Alvinaus “Mushy” Simon. Disaster Readiness: Choiseul becomes “Tsunami Ready,” with evacuation routes, warning signs and drills.

Geothermal Energy Push: Saint Lucia’s geothermal exploration is now “quite advanced,” with work ongoing in Saltibus, Fond St Jacques and Belle Plaine, including consultations, relocation of two families, and preparations for drilling and road works as bidding nears completion. Housing & Home Ownership: Government says home ownership is being pushed “within reach” for more citizens, including a EC$54 million housing investment via the Saint Lucia Development Bank to expand affordable financing. Labour & Pensions: Labour Minister Emma Hippolyte reports farm workers in Canada raised pension concerns during her visit, with long-serving participants asking whether contributions are enough for retirement. Road Safety Warning: GK Insurance EC is urging motorists to drive carefully this Thanksgiving weekend, warning against speeding, distracted driving, dangerous overtaking and driving after alcohol. Business & Regulation: NURC says water trucking operators who transport water for resale must obtain a licence, with new rules covering safety, liability insurance and business management. Regional & Community: Choiseul becomes “Tsunami Ready” under UNESCO’s programme, while Kwéyòl Heritage Month kicked off with a call that “Kwéyòl-la Sé Sa Nou Tout.” Sports: Saint Lucia beat Guadeloupe 3-0 in Concacaf Nations League action in Barbados, with Caniggia Elva scoring from the spot.

Energy & Infrastructure: Saint Lucia’s geothermal exploration is now underway in Saltibus, Fond St Jacques and Belle Plaine, with a World Bank-funded team consulting residents and farmers and beginning steps that could lead to electricity generation, including relocation for two families and a bidding process nearing completion. Digital Connectivity: EllaLink has officially launched its Caribbean Gateway initiative, moving from design to committed investment for a fibre optic submarine cable linking Cayenne to Martinique and Guadeloupe, with western branches serving Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire, targeted for service by end-2029. Labour & Pensions: Labour Minister Emma Hippolyte’s Canada visit focused on how the Canada Farm Labour Programme is working for Saint Lucians, with retirement and pension contributions emerging as a major concern for long-serving workers. Sports: The Saint Lucia men’s team notched a 3-0 Nations League win over Guadeloupe, while local cricket mourns the sudden death of Choiseul off-spinner Alvinaus “Mushy” Simon. Community & Safety: Choiseul becomes “Tsunami Ready” through UNESCO’s programme, and GK Insurance EC urges motorists to drive carefully this Thanksgiving weekend. Business & Policy: Parliament approved a US$20m guarantee for affordable housing loans, and Saint Lucia is moving to regulate water trucking by requiring licences from NURC.

Cricket Spotlight: Dwayne Bravo pulled off a stunning one-handed catch in the World Championship of Legends 2026 as West Indies Champions faced South Africa Champions at Sharjah on Oct 4. CARICOM & Regional Ties: Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, also CARICOM Chairman, paid tribute to late French Guiana President Gabriel Serville, noting his role in French Guiana’s CARICOM associate membership. Honours & Community: Lester Francois, a retired British Army warrant officer, received Veteran of the Year at the Leavers to Leaders awards in the UK. Women’s Health & Media: UNFPA says gender-based violence, child marriage and adolescent pregnancy are still under-reported, urging local media to adopt more human-centred coverage. Football (Saint Lucia): Saint Lucia beat Guadeloupe 3-0 in Concacaf Nations League, with Caniggia Elva scoring from the spot and Arkell Jude Boyd and Donavan Phillip adding goals. Road Safety: GK Insurance EC is urging extra caution this Thanksgiving weekend, warning against speeding, phone use, dangerous overtaking and driving after drinking. Housing Push: Government says it’s targeting home ownership, including a EC$54m housing investment via the Saint Lucia Development Bank. Kwéyòl Heritage Month: The Folk Research Centre launched Kwéyòl Heritage Month with the theme “Kwéyòl-la Sé Sa Nou Tout,” naming host communities for Jounen Kwéyòl Day. Disaster Preparedness: Choiseul is now “Tsunami Ready,” with evacuation routes, warning signs, education and drills in place.