The House of Assembly met earlier this week, ahead of the island’s 39th Independence anniversary.

Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet, in his opening statement  referenced the anniversary celebrations.

“I want to acknowledge this great milestone that Saint Lucia has achieved and for us to recognise the progress that we have made as a country. More importantly I am appealing to all Saint Lucians to actively participate in the list of independence activities that we have outlined for this year and in particular to the young people of Saint Lucia, to solicit their involvement in society. A great nation can only be successful when its citizens participate in the process and engage themselves in the development of our country. I feel that the 39th year is a great opportunity for us to celebrate and to recognise the acheivements we have made as a country.”

During the proceedings Mr. Chastanet, who is also the Minister for Finance, Economic Growth, Job Creation, External Affairs and the Public Service put forward the motion that  Parliament should authorize the borrowing by means of advance sums not exceeding $55 million dollars from commercial banks, for a period of six months. The sums shall be charged on and paid out of the Consolidated Fund.