Since 2007, the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has been working with the Government of Saint Lucia through the Constituency Development Programme to improve the livelihoods of Saint Lucians, by constructing, rehabilitating and maintaining infrastructural facilities across all communities in the country.

Under the program, projects like flood mitigation, drainage, soil stabilization, community access roads, and school facilities are all implemented bringing benefit to the people of Saint Lucia.

Recently, the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) disbursed funds under the program for the second phase of 2018 and the first phase of 2019.

Ambassador H.E Douglas C.T. Shen, said since the inception of the Constituency Development Program, over 2400 projects have been completed and 25,000 jobs created.

“As we know global warming and climate change affect all mankind. Caribbean countries are particularly prone to enormous economic losses from hurricanes in recent years. It is imperative to ensure the safety of the Saint Lucian people and their property with a strengthened infrastructural system. I believe that through our joint effort in these meaningful programmes, it will continue to enhance the environment for local residents and bring benefit to all communities in Saint Lucia.”

Minister for Economic Development, Housing, Urban Renewal, Transport and Civil Aviation, Hon. Guy Joseph said the programme adds tremendous value for the people of Saint Lucia.

“These projects change the lives of people in a meaningful way. We must applaud the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for the level of support that we have received.”

Minister for Equity, Social Justice, Local Government and Empowerment, Hon. Lenard Montoute assured H.E. Douglas Shen that the impact of the projects being implemented under the program will be felt in every community.

“While a government prepares a budget, outlines programmes there are always needs here and there that cannot be met by the national budget. The funding provided goes a long way in dealing with some of these issues. We have also moved into utilizing some of those funds for human capacity development as well. As a result, Ambassador Shen, you will continue to see not just the impact that those projects create on the aesthetics of our community but the long term implication of the investments being made through the capacity that we build in our people.”

This year, the programme will place more focus on projects that are centered on people development.