The Government of Saint Lucia has been firm on its position of pre-testing for anyone coming to the island amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

When the island’s borders reopened to international travel on June 4, travelers were asked to provide a negative COVID-19 test result 48 hours before arrival as part of safety protocols. There was concern about the measure from the public and stakeholders which subsequently led to a revision of 72 hours.

With the island’s own testing capacity strengthened, the reopening of the tourism sector on July 9 saw protocols further revised to the provision of a negative test within seven days of travel to Saint Lucia.

Tourism Minister, Hon Dominic Fedee, said the protocols have served Saint Lucia well in the COVID-19 fight. A health facility established at the Hewanorra International Airport for the screening and processing of passengers has added tremendous value to the national effort against the pandemic, the minister added.

Since July 9, some 5000 visitors have been welcomed to the island. A stark contrast to the hundreds of thousands who flocked to the island before the pandemic. However, despite the low numbers, airlines continue to show confidence in the future of Caribbean travel.

The tourism minister assures that the government will prioritize the health of all citizens as it simultaneously seeks to protect livelihoods.