The CDP results in improved community amenities and short-term construction jobs, while block-making will facilitate the construction of a perimeter wall at Bordelais, and provide inmates with an avenue for income.

​Representatives of the Government of Saint Lucia and the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) gathered in the Cabinet Room of the Office of the Prime Minister, today, for the first Cheque Presentation Ceremony for the financial year 2015 - 2016.

The Government of Saint Lucia received a cheque of EC$8,173,053.01 to finance the Constituency Development Program (CDP), as well as a contribution of EC$220,118.20 for the establishment of a block-making enterprise at the Bordelais Correctional Facility.

H.E. James Chang, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Saint Lucia, said he is pleased that his government continues to partner with the Government of Saint Lucia, to undertake meaningful projects around the island.

“Better roads for both vehicles and pedestrians means more safety and a higher production of work. For instance, parents will be able to send their children to school with peace of mind and farmers will be able to transport their produce to the markets with ease,” he said. “Playing courts, playing fields and the like are not only important for children to play but also to develop a sporting career. Beach amenities are quite important since tourism is an important economic contributor to Saint Lucia and the beach is one of the leading tourist attractions.”

Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony expressed gratitude to the government and people of Taiwan and highlighted the importance of the CDP.

“The CDP represents construction jobs in all parts of the country; in every constituency, in nearly every community, village, town or hamlet. The CDP translates to major improvements in the quality of life of thousands of Saint Lucians through improved access, improved drainage and better community amenities. The CDP effectively means that all MPs have the opportunity to directly impact what happens in their respective constituency.”

The Prime Minister disclosed that between 2012 and 2014, government has spent about EC$46.9 million in the CDP.

“By the end of this financial year, we would have spent over 70 million, and this government is proud to say that all these monies can be accounted for. They can be accounted for in the treasury and the work can be seen tangibly all across Saint Lucia.”

Last year, 556 contracts were issued under the CDP, resulting in the creation of over 3,000 short-term construction jobs.

Dr. Anthony also thanked Ambassador James Chang for Taiwan’s contribution to the block-making enterprise at the Bordelais Correctional Facility. The contribution will go towards the purchase of a block-making machine to facilitate the manufacture of concrete blocks. Once operational, it will assist Bordelais in the building of a perimeter wall in the short term and will provide an avenue for income for the inmates.