Fix the Roads: Debreuil Deserves Better This Christmas

The residents of Debreuil, Roblot and La Maze - The Forgotten Communities, have long suffered in silence. Their cries for better road conditions echo like a broken record, ignored by the very people elected and paid to serve them. The nightmare of commuting on these treacherous roads is a daily reminder of the utter disregard for basic infrastructure in our community. Enough is enough.

This time, the incompetence has reached new heights. A recently built box drain—a clear job-for-the-boys project—has turned into a cruel joke. Instead of addressing the runoff problem, it has created an even more dangerous situation. Water, refusing to flow into the misplaced drain, has carved its own path along the roadside, leaving a deep gorge that poses serious risks to drivers and pedestrians alike. This so-called "solution" is not just useless; it is an insult to the people of Debreuil  Roblot and La Maze.

Where is the accountability? How can a government, a ministry, or a parliamentary representative look at these conditions and feel no urgency to act? Are we to believe that these communities are forgotten simply because of their political affiliations? Such negligence transcends party lines—it is a blatant failure of leadership and a violation of the trust placed in public office.

The holiday season is upon us, a time when relatives and friends return to visit, hoping to enjoy the warmth of home and community. Instead, they are met with deplorable road conditions that scream of abandonment. Are these the first impressions we want for our community? Is this the Christmas gift we deserve?

To the powers that be, this is a direct call to action: step up to the plate and fix the roads. Your inaction is a stain on your record, and the people of Debreuil, Roblot and La Maze deserve better. We are not asking for gold-paved highways; we are demanding the basic decency of safe and functional roads.

Enough lip service. Enough empty promises. The people of this constituency are tired of being an afterthought. It is time to deliver a Christmas package that truly counts—a long-overdue commitment to repair and maintain the roads that are the lifeblood of this community. Anything less is unacceptable.

Debreuil, Roblot and La Maze will not be silenced, and we will not stand for this gross negligence any longer. Fix the roads now. The clock is ticking, and the patience of your constituents is wearing thin.

The Forgotten Road: A Call to Action for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Choiseul/Saltibus Representative

The stretch of road from Debreuil to La Maze stands as a glaring example of neglect—a damning indictment of the Ministry of Infrastructure and, by extension, the parliamentary representative for Choiseul/Saltibus. What was once a promising development in 2016, after works were carried out by Rayneau's Construction and Industrial Equipment (CIE) Ltd, has since deteriorated into an unforgivable state of disrepair.

Today, sections of this road are so riddled with deep potholes that motorists are forced to drive along the shoulder or even on pedestrian walkways to avoid damage to their vehicles. This dangerous practice not only endangers lives but also underscores a level of negligence that is entirely unacceptable.

As an old Saint Lucian saying goes, “Tou par este, tou par la, getaway sar, jup en tou a!” This perfectly encapsulates the frustration and desperation of the people who rely on this road daily. Debreuil, Roblot and La Maze have become synonymous with abandonment, leading many to question why these areas have been labeled "The Forgotten Communities."

Where Is the Accountability?

It is incomprehensible that nearly a decade has passed with no significant action to address this crisis. The Ministry of Infrastructure owes the people a clear explanation:

Why has this stretch of road been ignored for so long?

Where is the budget allocation for road maintenance and improvement in these communities?

What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of commuters and pedestrians?

Equally, the parliamentary representative for Choiseul/Saltibus must answer a critical question: What are you doing to address this situation? Leadership is about advocacy and action, yet the silence from the district representative has been deafening.

The Cost of Neglect

Neglected roads have far-reaching consequences beyond inconvenience:

1. Safety Risks: The risk of accidents increases as drivers swerve to avoid potholes or drive on unsafe shoulders.

2. Economic Impact: Vehicle repairs, longer travel times, and the deterrence of potential investors further cripple an already struggling community.

3. Public Discontent: Ignoring basic infrastructure needs breeds mistrust and disillusionment among residents.

The People Deserve Better

The residents of Debreuil, Roblot and La Maze have had enough. Their tax dollars contribute to national development, yet their needs remain unmet. The authorities cannot continue to turn a blind eye to their plight.

We call on the Ministry of Infrastructure and the parliamentary representative to:

1. Conduct Immediate Repairs: The road must be restored to a safe and usable state without delay.

2. Implement Long-term Solutions: A sustainable road maintenance plan is critical to prevent this situation from recurring.

3. Engage with the Community: Open dialogue with residents to understand their concerns and prioritize their needs.

Let This Be a Turning Point

The neglect of the Debreuil to La Maze road is a stark reminder of the disparity in resource allocation across Saint Lucia. But it is also a rallying cry for accountability and justice. These communities are not "forgotten"—they are neglected, and it is time for that to change.

The people of Debreuil, Roblot and La Maze deserve better, and they will no longer accept empty promises. Let this blog serve as a wake-up call to the powers that be: The time for action is now.

Roblot Shines Again: Congratulations to Shaquille William on His Scholarship of Excellence

The small yet vibrant community of Roblot, Choiseul, has yet another shining star to celebrate. Shaquille William, son of Clement and Shana William, has achieved a major milestone by earning a Scholarship of Excellence from Al Akhawayn University of Ifrane (AUI) in Morocco. This comes on the heels of Shaquille completing his Associate Degree in Computer Systems and Engineering at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College—a testament to his determination and commitment to excellence.

Shaquille's success continues a proud family tradition of academic achievement, as he follows in the footsteps of his sister, Shania William. Shania, a standout student of the Choiseul Secondary School, went on to pursue an online course with the University of the West Indies (UWI) and earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies in 2023.

At the heart of these accomplishments is their mother, Shana William, whose relentless efforts and dedication played a pivotal role in her children’s success. Shana’s commitment to their education, from assisting with schoolwork to fostering a supportive learning environment, is a true inspiration. Reflecting on her journey, Shana shares these powerful words of encouragement to parents:

"Stay connected, always encourage, motivate, and work with your children with passion. Let them know you are invested in their education and shaping their future alongside them. For younger ones, visit their schools regularly to maintain strong teacher-parent relationships. Above all, enjoy the process and experience of parenting."

As a community, Roblot and its surrounding areas celebrate Shaquille’s incredible achievement and wish him all the best in this exciting new chapter in Morocco. Your journey inspires others to aim high, work hard, and embrace the transformative power of education.

#ScholarshipRecipient #AUIMorocco #RoblotPride #PursuitOfExcellence

Unfair Play: Why Alzarri Joseph's T20 Ban is a Costly Mistake for West Indies Cricket"

The two-match T20 ban imposed on Alzarri Joseph by West Indies Cricket is, in my view, a questionable move that warrants serious scrutiny. Joseph, known for his fiery pace and consistent performances, has been one of the standout bowlers for the West Indies in recent times. While maintaining discipline in cricket is crucial, the decision to ban one of our premier fast bowlers at this critical juncture seems to be driven by short-term disciplinary motives rather than long-term strategic thinking.

The Real Cost: Weakening the Team

Let's consider the broader implications of this ban. The West Indies cricket team is currently in a rebuilding phase, striving to regain its glory days. Alzarri Joseph has been a pivotal figure in this journey, contributing significantly with his aggressive bowling style, which intimidates batsmen and breaks partnerships. By sidelining him, especially during key matches, we are effectively weakening our bowling attack and diminishing our chances of securing crucial victories. How does it make sense to cripple your own team when consistency and strong performances are desperately needed?

The Message It Sends: Confusion Over Priorities

This decision also sends mixed messages to fans and players alike. Cricket has always been a game of passion, and fast bowlers, in particular, are known for playing with an edge. To ban Joseph for an action that could arguably be addressed with a fine or a warning feels like an overreaction. It begs the question: what are we prioritizing here? Discipline at the expense of a win? Shouldn't there be a balance where players are held accountable without hampering team performance?

Double Standards in Disciplinary Actions

There's also a glaring issue of inconsistency in how these disciplinary actions are applied. We've seen players from other international teams get away with far worse infractions with little more than a slap on the wrist. Why is Alzarri Joseph, a player who has been largely professional in his conduct, suddenly being made an example of? Is this a case of the West Indies Cricket Board attempting to show a hardline stance, but at the cost of sacrificing team morale and unity?

Potential Ramifications: Damaging Player Morale

Banning Joseph not only impacts the immediate lineup but could also have longer-term effects on player morale. Younger players coming up through the ranks will see this harsh treatment of one of their role models and may start to second-guess their own aggressive instincts. The West Indies has a legacy of producing fearsome fast bowlers—holding back their natural game due to fear of disciplinary action can stifle talent development. Are we willing to sacrifice the essence of West Indies cricket for the sake of an ill-considered disciplinary measure?

The Way Forward

Instead of punitive bans, there should be a focus on constructive measures, like addressing on-field aggression through dialogue, mentorship, or fines. The West Indies Cricket Board should remember that cricket is as much about spirit as it is about rules. The spirit of the game allows for intensity and passion, which are qualities that Alzarri Joseph embodies. Banning him disrupts not just his career momentum but the very fabric of a team that desperately needs its top players to shine.

In conclusion, this ban feels like an overreach that does more harm than good. The West Indies team needs every ounce of talent and firepower it can muster. Instead of sidelining one of our best, the focus should be on supporting him, ensuring he remains a key part of the team’s journey to reclaiming its dominance on the international stage.

ATHLETIC LEGACY: WHY ALFRED DESERVES A STADIUM, NOT A HIGHWAY?

The George Odlum Stadium has stood as a makeshift hospital for over 13 years, a reminder of the tragic fire that devastated St. Jude Hospital. Now, with plans to renovate both St. Jude and give the stadium a much-needed facelift, there’s an opportunity to rethink how we honor national heroes. While discussions are ongoing about naming the Millennium Highway after Olympian Julien Alfred, I argue that a sports facility like George Odlum Stadium would be a more fitting tribute to her.

Julien Alfred has put Saint Lucia on the world map with her gold medal victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics, symbolizing excellence in sports. It’s only logical that sports facilities, where the next generation of athletes will train, bear her name.    

Key Points to Consider:

  Symbol of Inspiration: Julien Alfred's gold medal victory at the Olympics has inspired countless young athletes in Saint Lucia. Naming a sports facility after her would serve as a constant reminder of her accomplishments and motivate future generations to strive for greatness.

  Legacy and Recognition: Renaming the George Odlum Stadium after Julien Alfred would solidify her legacy as one of Saint Lucia's most celebrated athletes. It would also provide a fitting tribute to her hard work, dedication, and talent.

  Alignment with Sports Facilities: Naming sports facilities after athletes is a common practice, reflecting the connection between the facility and the individual's achievements. This would create a more cohesive and meaningful naming convention for sports infrastructure in Saint Lucia.

  Alternative Options for George Odlum: While the Millennium Highway is a suitable option for recognizing George Odlum's contributions, other public spaces or institutions could also be considered. This would ensure that his legacy is appropriately honored while allowing for a more fitting tribute to Julien Alfred.

Athletes should be honored in spaces where their legacy can inspire others in their field. Naming a stadium, particularly one central to sports in Saint Lucia, after Julien Alfred would not only celebrate her achievements but also ensure her legacy in athletics is preserved in a way that resonates with future athletes. . 

Renaming the George Odlum Stadium after Julien Alfred would be a fitting and inspiring choice in sports while reserving the Millennium Highway for George Odlum’s legacy in politics.   It would not only recognize her exceptional athletic achievements but also serve as a symbol of hope and motivation for future generations. By honoring her contributions in this way, Saint Lucia can celebrate its sporting heroes and inspire young athletes to reach for their dreams.

Julien Alfred deserves to be celebrated with dignity, not reduced to the butt of a demeaning joke.

At the unveiling ceremony of a mural at the Ciceron Primary School meant to celebrate St. Lucia's pride, Olympic gold medalist Julien Alfred, Minister of Youth and Sports Kenson Casimir managed to overshadow the moment with an insensitive and demeaning statement. His words, “Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages, let's stand as I introduce to you, the myth, the legend, met bondar yo tout, our very own, Julien 'JUJU' Alfred” left many stunned. Delivered in Creole, the phrase “met bondar yo tout,” meaning “master of their backside,” was highly inappropriate and gave the moment a derogatory tone. What should have been an inspirational occasion for students of Alfred's alma mater was instead marred by tasteless language.

Minister of Sports

Casimir’s choice of words, especially in Creole—a language that carries cultural weight and nuance—has rightfully angered parents across the island. What was intended as humor came off as crass and disrespectful, particularly in front of school children. As an Olympian and a role model, Julien Alfred deserves to be celebrated with dignity, not reduced to the butt of a demeaning joke.

It’s one thing to make a mistake, but what adds insult to injury is the minister's failure to issue a prompt apology. Leaders are expected to set an example, especially when addressing the nation’s youth. The students who attended the event looked up to Alfred as a beacon of excellence; instead, they witnessed a high-ranking government official undermine that achievement with a crude remark. Parents, who are now demanding an apology, have every right to be outraged. They expect better from the people tasked with nurturing and inspiring the next generation.

But perhaps even more shocking is the deafening silence from the St. Lucia Teachers' Union.

President SLTU

This is an organization that claims to champion the values of discipline, respect, and moral integrity in our schools. Yet, despite the backlash from parents, the newly elected president of the union has remained disturbingly quiet. Where is the condemnation? Where is the voice of advocacy for students who were subjected to this kind of behavior from a public official?

The union’s silence sends a dangerous message—that authority figures can get away with disrespectful behavior without consequence. Is this really the example we want to set for the young minds entrusted to our care? If the Teachers' Union is truly committed to fostering a healthy, respectful environment in schools, they must act. Ignoring this issue suggests they are complicit in allowing such behavior to go unchecked.

Julien Alfred

Minister Casimir’s words were not just a slip of the tongue; they were a gross display of poor judgment in a setting where decorum and respect should have been paramount. He owes an apology, not only to Julien Alfred but also to the students, teachers, and parents of St. Lucia. To brush this off as harmless banter is to ignore the deeper impact it has on our young people.

Equally, the St. Lucia Teachers' Union must break its silence. As the body responsible for upholding standards in education and behavior, they cannot sit idly by while such inappropriate language is normalized in front of students. They must speak out and demand that public officials be held accountable when they cross the line.

Minister Casimir, it’s time to do the right thing—apologize. A moment meant to honor one of St. Lucia's brightest stars has instead become a source of embarrassment. The minister should take responsibility and show true leadership by admitting his error.

And to the Teachers' Union: Silence is complicity. Our children are watching, and they deserve better from the very institutions sworn to protect their development. It's time to stand up, speak out, and demand that respect and integrity remain non-negotiable in our schools.

The Shameful Betrayal of Choiseul's Lands: A Community Left Behind

As a proud resident of Choiseul, I’m compelled to raise an urgent alarm over the impending sale of Bisee lands in La Fargue. For decades, the fertile lands of Choiseul have been prey to unscrupulous dealings, with politicians at the heart of these murky transactions. Today, the story is no different. The proposed sale of this land to a non-Choiseulian threatens the very fabric of our community, and we will not stay silent.

Let’s make no mistake about it—this deal reeks of political nepotism. It’s now circulating that the Bisee land, opposite Mathias Bar, is being sold to none other than Ian Baptiste, the brother of Foreign Affairs Minister Alva Baptiste. We all know Ian—he ran the infamous TIPSY Bar in La Fargue until it was destroyed by fire last year. Now, in a conveniently orchestrated move, he’s about to secure prime land right here in our village, despite over five Choiseulians reportedly being denied the opportunity to purchase or lease it. What’s the justification for Ian’s special treatment? Is it because his brother sits in the Cabinet?

This land has history—history that belongs to Choiseul. For years, it was home to agricultural officers like Miller and St. Hill, who served our community with dedication. When they left, the land stood idle, its potential ignored by those who should have cared for it. Why, now, has the government suddenly decided it’s fit for a sale—and to a non-resident, no less? Why not offer this land to a Choiseulian?

Adding insult to injury, the plans for this land include establishing another bar or nightclub, right in the vicinity of Choiseul Secondary School, just 30 yards away. Are we really going to stand by while yet another alcohol establishment threatens the well-being of our youth? Have our leaders forgotten the efforts of the principal at Rivière Dorée School, who fought successfully to stop the construction of a bar near his school?

But this issue goes beyond just a bar. It’s about the future of Choiseul. La Fargue is the heart of Choiseul’s development. Why isn't the land being used for something meaningful—like a proper facility to house the Choiseul Library, Post Office, and Village Council, all of which are currently crammed into a dangerous, dilapidated building? This land could be the perfect site for such a much-needed development, one that benefits every resident of Choiseul, not just a privileged few.

The sale of the Bisee land represents more than just a shady deal—it’s a betrayal of the Choiseulian people. We must stand up, speak out, and demand that this government rethink its plans. The land must be preserved for the betterment of Choiseul, not sold off to outsiders for profit. This is our home, and we will not be ignored.

Choiseul belongs to its people—let’s keep it that way