Acting Prime Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire has emphasised that double Olympic medallist Julien Alfred deserves the accolades she has received.
“Last night was a truly spectacular moment in the history of Saint Lucia, one that we will never forget. Our sprint Queen deserved nothing less,” Hilaire wrote on Facebook.
On Friday night, there was a free celebratory concert in Julien Alfred’s honour at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.
“The government of Saint Lucia is satisfied that through good governance, we were able to provide what we consider “fitting” for a national hero, ” Hilaire asserted.
Last week, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) officially appointed Alfred as the country’s Tourism Ambassador.
However, Dr. Hilaire, also the Tourism Minister, indicated that’s only part of it.
“Rest assured, our commitment to the Tourism Ambassador does not stop there. Just like all our other heroes, we will continue to provide our support in whichever way we can,” Hilaire stated.
At Friday’s Daren Sammy Cricket Ground concert, cheers and applause greeted Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s announcement of a one million dollar award from the Government and people of Saint Lucia to Alfred.
Pierre, who departed the Island on official business the following day, also announced renaming the Millennium Highway after the Saint Lucia track star and constructing a monument in her honour at the new Cul de Sac Roundabout.
In addition, he revealed plans for an official Julien Alfred stamp, 10, 720 square feet of land of her choice, and a commemorative exercise book with photos.
Ms. Alfred did herself proud and as a result St. Lucia stands to benefit tremendously from her accomplishments. This young woman left St. Lucia at a very tender age and worked vigorously under extreme conditions in sun, rain as well as cold weather. She endured a whole lot to get to this point (mentally, physically, financially and emotionally). Therefore, because St. Lucia stands to benefit – she is deserving of everything/gifts/endorsements/property/finances etc. etc. etc. bestowed upon her – let the bad minded/naysayers say Amen.
To the evil bad minded naysayers (in 758 and wherever) – you certainly will not understand sacrifice unless you have walked a mile in someone else’s shoes. Ms. Alfred – you are simply beautiful, humble and full of gratitude – continue to reach your desired goal with your God given ability and tenacity. I heard that your idol was Usian Bolt – may you acquire many many more gold medals. I wish nothing but the best for you. God bless you and your family.
Absolutely Nothing Less! Bottom line. And there are UWP Stooges coming and talk ignorantly about “they have hospital to build” etc. Get the freak out of here with this stupidity. Julien deserve everything she received plus more. AMEN!
This young lady did more to put Saint Lucia on the global map in 10.72 seconds than any Government did in 45 years ( ie 1, 420, 062,840 seconds ) of independence. Now, more people know where Saint Lucia is located and the tourism numbers will show it pretty soon. For once, Saint Lucia was among the top spot searches on Google. That’s what happens when the people are supported. For years we have been calling for more support for athletes. Now the government can’t refuse to support our budding athletes all thanks to Miss Alfred.
@X-Wiz. Well articulated. AMEN!