Government Of Saint Lucia

In the headlines: The Ministry of Commerce commits to supplying essential services to the public and; the public have been alerted to the risks of the Saharan dust. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Mental Health Month highlights the importance of mental well-being and a Saint Lucia and the World Food Programme agreement to strengthen technical assistance for disaster response. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs successfully hosted its annual Pre-Atlantic Hurricane Season Preparedness Meeting on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. The session convened department heads and key representatives from health institutions across the island to evaluate national readiness for the 2025–2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season. The interactive forum allowed stakeholders to share updates on their disaster preparedness plans, address potential risks, and identify gaps in the health sector's emergency response framework. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-strengthens-preparedness-ahead-of-2025-hurricane-season Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wxh3FRhQ0A8 Listen to podcast: https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia/ministry-of-health-strengthens-preparedness-ahead-of-2025-hurricane-season

In the headlines: Caribbean education leaders agree to prioritize school security, and; the Department of Probation and Parole unveils a strategic plan for greater efficiency. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Saint Lucia recognized as a top trending destination and; Dennery Hospital trains staff in customer relations. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Minister for Agriculture discusses plans for Sargassum relief, and; Grand Riviere Dennery welcomes a Digital Development Center. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

Education Ministers and key regional stakeholders recently gathered for the Fourth Caribbean Ministerial Forum on School Safety, reaffirming their commitment to the Caribbean Safe School Initiative (CSSI).   Saint Lucia officially assumed chairmanship of the Caribbean Safe School Initiative (CSSI), following the successful hosting of this year's event. 

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs continues to demonstrate its commitment to high-quality healthcare by prioritizing staff development and service excellence across all facilities. Most recently, Dennery Hospital successfully concluded a Customer Satisfaction Training Workshop aimed at improving patient care through enhanced service delivery. The training, an initiative of the Performance-Based Financing (PBF) Project, brought together hospital staff and medical professionals in a hands-on, interactive setting designed to strengthen interpersonal communication, responsiveness to patient needs, and the overall patient experience.

In the headlines: The government discusses increased investments being made in the business processing outsourcing sector and; the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs acknowledges World Hypertension Day For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Tourism Minister gives his observation on the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival and Reading Month is observed and; all are encouraged to pick up a book. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In observance of World Hypertension Day on May 17, 2025, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs joined the global community in raising awareness of hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, which continues to be a major contributor to premature deaths both globally and in Saint Lucia.   This year's global theme, “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer,” reinforces the Ministry's ongoing efforts to promote better health practices. Accurate measurement using clinically validated monitors and proper technique remains a cornerstone of early diagnosis and sustained management. According to national health statistics, an estimated 2 out of 5 Saint Lucian adults aged 18 to 69 years, or approximately 40 percent, are affected by hypertension. Even more concerning is that fewer than 1 in 5 persons with hypertension in Saint Lucia have their blood pressure under control.

In the headlines: The Ministry of Health reviews its disaster management plan, and the Minister for Tourism, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire expresses satisfaction for the recently-concluded Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival. For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

In observance of World Hypertension Day on May 17, 2025, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs joined the global community in raising awareness of hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, which continues to be a major contributor to premature deaths both globally and in Saint Lucia. This year's global theme, “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer,” reinforces the Ministry's ongoing efforts to promote better health practices. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-observes-world-hypertension-day-2025

In a strategic effort to enhance Saint Lucia's health emergency preparedness and response capacity, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), embarked on a comprehensive review of its National Multi-Hazard Health Sector Disaster Management Plan. This initiative formed part of a five-day workshop aimed at reinforcing national resilience against public health emergencies and natural disasters. The workshop brought together key stakeholders in health and disaster management to strengthen existing frameworks and to develop an updated Pandemic Preparedness Plan that integrated lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies.

The Millennium Heights Medical Complex (MHMC) is taking strategic steps to elevate healthcare safety and quality in Saint Lucia following its active participation in the 7th Global Ministerial Summit on Patient Safety, held at the Asian Development Bank Headquarters in Manila, Philippines.   Themed “Weaving Strengths for the Future of Patient Safety throughout the Healthcare Continuum,” the summit brought together ministers of health, senior healthcare professionals, and international experts to discuss best practices and future priorities for the implementation of the Global Patient Safety Action Plan 2021 - 2030.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia signs an agreement to strengthen its disaster response capacity and; the U.S.Embassy advises against traveling to the United States to give birth. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Saint Lucia Customs prepares for delayed impact of United States trade tariffs and Prime Minister Hon. Philip J.  Pierre explains government's support for the island's nurses. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia is expected to feel the delayed economic impact of US tariffs in the coming months. According to the Customs and Excise Department, although local prices remain relatively stable for now, the effects are inevitable. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/customs-and-excise-department-prepares-for-delayed-impact-of-us-tariffs

In the headlines: Saint Lucia hosts the fourth Caribbean Ministerial Forum on School Safety, which starts today and; the Ministry of Agriculture responds to the influx of Sargassum on the west coast. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The 34th Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival ends - a special edition recap. For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

May, is annually recognized as a month dedicated to amplifying the power and importance of reading.  This year, Reading Month will be observed under a theme selected to bridge gaps in connection, and inspire nationals to pick up a book and become immersed in its story.

In the headlines: The Ministry of Education raises concern over a bullying incident at school and; the Ministry of Agriculture hosts a conference on a new farm insurance initiative. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) remain a persistent public health challenge in Saint Lucia, exacerbated by socio-economic vulnerabilities, limited public awareness, and insufficient engagement across key sectors. While efforts exist within individual ministries, a coordinated, culturally relevant, and community-driven approach is lacking. CARPHA, in collaboration with national stakeholders, has initiated a Public Education Campaign (PEC) using a realistic framework to explore what works, for whom, and under what conditions. A recent scoping mission revealed critical gaps and opportunities in VBD prevention, including: • Inadequate digital communication and M&E systems • Limited integration of VBD content in school curricula • Socioeconomic barriers to behaviour change • Underutilization of religious and tourism sector platforms Objective To reduce the incidence of VBDs in Saint Lucia by launching a multisectoral public education campaign that fosters sustained behavioural change through targeted training, community engagement, and digital innovation.

In the headlines: The Ministry of Health continues its campaign against chronic diseases and; Saint Lucian midwives honoured for their critical role in health care delivery. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In a spirited effort to promote healthier lifestyles and prevent chronic disease, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, in partnership with the Capacity Building Project for the Prevention and Control of Metabolic Diseases in Saint Lucia, successfully hosted the “Healthy Eating for Better Living” initiative on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Saltibus Wellness Centre. The one-day event, grounded in health education and prevention, brought together a cross-section of specially invited guests, healthcare professionals, and Ministry officials dedicated to addressing the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases. A key highlight of the day was an engaging, hands-on cooking demonstration designed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills of preparing nutritious, affordable meals using locally available ingredients.

Embracing innovation has been outlined as a necessary step in positioning Saint Lucia to safely harness its marine resources.   This year, at the launch of the annually observed Innovation and Creativity Week, focus was placed on the Blue Economy and its ability to inspire change.

In the headlines: The Saint Lucia government pays off more than $3 million owed to the Hospitality University of Martinique and; the Minister for Equity, Hon. Joachim Henry, has added his voice to ongoing discussions on access to menstrual health products. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Saint Lucia's Prime Minister heads an OECS delegation for discussions with the US Department of State and; Justice Mario Michel honoured after 19 years of judicial service. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The National Commission for UNESCO in Saint Lucia hosts a workshop on African influenced dances and; the Youth Economy Agency trains its latest cohort of 60 young entrepreneurs. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Saint Lucian composer Richard Payne launches Introspection, a jazz Creole album and; government removes VAT and property tax from the sporting fraternity. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force to benefit from increased revenue from the 2025-26 budget and; government honours its obligations with another salary increase to public servants. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has released a Vaccination Awareness Programme Trailer, Shielded for Life: The Power of Immunization, a key element of its ongoing campaign to promote immunization and strengthen public health across Saint Lucia. The trailer delivers a clear and compelling message: Vaccines are safe, effective, and life-saving, shielding our children, families, and communities from dangerous diseases. Through vivid imagery and powerful storytelling, the trailers aim to inspire confidence in vaccines and reinforce the importance of timely immunization in preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable illnesses. The Ministry encourages all citizens to view, share, and engage with the vaccine trailers, which are available across social media platforms and broadcast channels. These trailers form part of a broader strategy to ensure that accurate information about vaccines is accessible to everyone, countering misinformation and promoting a culture of health resilience.

As Saint Lucia grapples with increasing concerns about crime and public safety, the Saint Lucia Employers Federation (SLEF) has launched a groundbreaking initiative. The Federation recently held the inaugural meeting of its new Citizen Safety and Security Committee a platform designed to enhance collaboration between employers, law enforcement, and emergency services. Executive Director of the SLEF, Cornelia Jn Baptiste, says the initiative comes at a critical time. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/saint-lucia-employers-federation-launches-safety-committee Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSFUhQ7eHJo ​Listen: https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia/saint-lucia-employers-federation-launches-safety-committee

In the headlines: Richfond Wellness Center hosts self-management workshop on chronic disease management and; the Taiwan Technical Mission revamps the process of growing dragon fruit. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Saint Lucia's 2025-2026 budget reaffirms government's commitment to equity, justice, and human dignity and; Labor Day 2025 launches with a focus on artificial intelligence. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Prime Minister Honourable Philip J.Pierre delivers the 2025-2026 budget and; Saint Lucian athletes proved to be a source of pride at CARIFTA Games and CARIFTA Swimming Championships. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs, in collaboration with the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) and Cathay General Hospital, continues to make significant strides in strengthening Saint Lucia's primary healthcare system through a four-year capacity building project for the prevention and control of Metabolic Chronic Diseases. The project targets and improves screening, management, and control of conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. With its implementation already making tangible impacts across communities, the initiative is helping to reshape health outcomes island wide. The fourth workshop component initiated on April 2nd to 3rd at the Bel Jou Hotel focused on integrating the CARPHA and HEARTS guidelines for diabetes and hypertension into primary care practice. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-takes-bold-steps-in-chronic-disease-prevention-and-control Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3G8OjJCYDA Listen to podcast: https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia/ministry-of-health-takes-bold-steps-in-chronic-disease-prevention-and-control

In a significant move to enhance chronic disease management in Saint Lucia, the Richfond Wellness Centre hosted a Self-Management Workshop on Monday, April 14, 2025, under the Performance-Based Financing (PBF) initiative. Held under the theme “Empowering Clients, Transforming Lives,” the session focused on equipping individuals living with Diabetes and Hypertension with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to manage their health more effectively from home. Region 3, comprising the Richfond and La Ressource communities has recorded the highest prevalence of Diabetes in the country. In response, healthcare professionals at the Richfond Wellness Centre have intensified efforts to educate and empower clients in ways that lead to lasting behavioral change and improved health outcomes. Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/richfond-wellness-centre-hosts-pbf-self-management-workshop Watch video news report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ltXrEJlEXo Listen to podcast: https://pod.co/government-of-saint-lucia/richfond-wellness-centre-hosts-pbf-self-management-workshop

In the headlines: Works on Saint Lucia's ports from Global Port Holdings has officially commenced after a sod turning ceremony held at Port Castries and; Saint Lucia receives oral doses of polio vaccine from Brazil. For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc