Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has responded to concerns regarding the government’s consultation with the Saint Lucia National Trust before proceeding with the ongoing Halls of Justice project in Castries.
Speaking at a police vehicle handover ceremony on Tuesday, the Prime Minister addressed rumors and concerns about the initiative.
The Trust serves as the primary custodian of the nation’s historical and cultural sites, including areas within the city.
Critics have expressed concerns about the proposed five-story structure to be built on the lots previously occupied by the old courthouse and the Ministry of Education, which are to be connected by a skybridge.
In response, the Prime Minister reassured the public that proper due diligence had been followed.
“Before I say or do something, I think about it,” Pierre said. “I consulted the National Trust regarding the demolition of both buildings. As for the Ministry of Education, the National Trust said there was nothing of significant value. It was an old building that could be demolished. In the case of the courthouse, they noted there were pictures inside that should be preserved—pictures of judges and other individuals. So before we demolished it, we made sure to retrieve and save those items.”
“We had full discussions, and we obtained written permission from the National Trust to demolish both buildings. We engaged with all involved parties and made amendments to the original plan to ensure satisfaction. Space in Castries is very limited, and the courts need to be located in the capital. We have to share the space accordingly.”
Pierre also stressed the importance of ongoing consultation to ensure the best possible outcomes.
“We are going to gather all the ideas and consult with everyone,” he said. “We’ve taken some suggestions on board, but the courts cannot continue in their current state. So bear with us as we continue putting all the pieces together.”
PHOTO: Philip J. Pierre (File image)
Mr prime minister we the public haven’t heard a word from the SLNT over three years with all whats happening in the country. Suddenly you a having consultation with them. There must be something that’s benefitting them. SLNT a bunch of None Value Added.
Look like you all want to destroy the church. Don’t put this monstrosity there. Ooh paka tan!
The that were protesting outside parliament was incited and orchestrated by their yellow God to derail progress but AS PER USUAL they fail miserably.. Their yellow God is being pushed by his Cliques to stall the halls of justice in order to continue milk the government coffers for rent for the usage of space for courthouses; is simply appalling to taxpayers. Like I have stated to you Mr PM continue thru with your plans and vision of bringing the essentials to the people…. the haters will always hate not
matter what you do .
I am so sorry for some St. Lucians, it appears that the furthest some of them have been is Pigeon Point. If they ever travel to the Americas to see these massive buildings, what will they say? Gracious.
When space is limited, there is no other option but to utilize the upward space. With congestion to the max, all new buildings in the city, should scrape the sky, including churches. Really don’t know what the hu la la is all about. It will come to a point when even our historical sites will have to be sacrificed to fulfill our needs.