🎤 New Year, Big Promises — But Choiseul Still Wants to See the Work

Every New Year’s address is supposed to do two things: lift the spirit and signal the direction. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s speech aimed to do exactly that — with talk of unity, national progress, and a busy development agenda. And yes, parts of it sounded hopeful.

💡 But here’s the Choiseul-on-the-Move question: after the applause fades, will the promises land where people live — in communities like Choiseul, Saltibus, La Fargue, Debreuil, Rivière Dorée, and Roblot?

✅ What the Speech Got Right

• Unity message: The Prime Minister pushed back against “bitterness, hatred and division” and called for a more compassionate Saint Lucia. In a politically heated climate, that’s the kind of tone the country needs.
• Development focus: The address highlighted priorities like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and youth opportunity — the very areas people talk about at the bus stop, in the market, and in the community center.
• Forward-looking energy: The speech leaned into action and momentum, not just ceremony. That’s a better use of national airtime than pure pageantry.

⚠️ Where the Speech Fell Short (And Why People Are Still Uneasy)

1) Plenty “what”… not enough “when.”
We heard many good intentions — but fewer timelines. Saint Lucians don’t only want to know what is planned; we want to know when it starts, how long it will take, and what the community should expect along the way.

A national address becomes stronger when it includes clear targets — even simple ones: “By June we will begin…”, “By September we will complete…”, “By year-end we will deliver…”.

2) Big vision needs local receipts.
When governments speak of national progress, it must translate into visible improvement in everyday services — roadworks done properly, drainage that doesn’t fail after rain, public offices that treat people respectfully, and opportunities that don’t feel “hand-picked” or politically filtered.

In rural communities, people judge leadership by the basics: access, fairness, and follow-through.

3) Cost of living needed stronger, direct talk.
Many households are feeling pressure: groceries, utility bills, school expenses, and the constant hustle to “make ends meet.” A New Year’s address can’t solve it overnight — but it should speak to it with clarity and empathy.

People want to hear what relief looks like in real terms: jobs, training, small business support, and price stability — not just broad promises.

4) Unity can’t be a slogan — it must be policy.
Calling for unity is good — but unity becomes believable when citizens see fairness in hiring, contracting, and community support, regardless of political colour.

If we truly want to “turn the page,” government must lead by example: consistent standards, equal treatment, and transparent decisions.

📍 The Choiseul Lens: What We’ll Be Watching in 2026

Choiseul people are not against progress — we are hungry for it. But we will be watching for proof in areas that touch daily life:

• 🛣️ Roads, drainage, and infrastructure that last — not quick patchwork.
• 👷 Jobs and training that reach young people in the south, not just headlines in Castries.
• 🏥 Healthcare access that feels real in the communities — not only in speeches.
• 📑 Public service delivery that treats every citizen with respect, regardless of political affiliation.

🗣️ Final word: The Prime Minister’s speech carried optimism and ambition — and the country can appreciate that. But 2026 must be a year where Saint Lucia moves from promises to proof. From announcements to accountability. From vision to visible results.

What did you take away from the New Year’s address? Was it inspiring — or did it feel like the usual political script?

Drop your thoughts in the comments. Let’s keep the conversation respectful, honest, and focused on progress. 🇱🇨

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Choiseul on the Move — community-focused commentary for people who want development that can be seen, felt, and measured.