Police in the north are set to move their operations from the Human Resource Development Centre to the newly built Gros Islet Police Divisional Headquarters in Massade, marking a shift away from years of operating out of rented spaces.
The new headquarters will house the Gros Islet division, which has received 25 percent of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s newly trained officers, a boost that senior officials say positions the division to strengthen its presence in the community.
Speaking during an opening ceremony on February 19, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ronald Philip urged officers to treat the facility as more than just a change of address. “See it as a chance to build a new standard of excellence. You have been entrusted with one of the most modern stations in the English-speaking Caribbean,” he said. “I challenge you to make it a flagship of professionalism, a model of community policing and a station known for being inclusive, approachable and responsive to the needs of the community.”
Gros Islet Parliamentary Representative Kenson Casimir said the purpose-built station was intended to improve efficiency.
“This modern headquarters has been thoughtfully designed to enhance operational efficiency, improve service delivery and provide a safe and professional environment for the officers who serve our communities every day,” Casimir said.
The project, valued at $35,858,999.56, was carried out under a BOLT (Build, Own, Lease, Transfer) agreement between the Government of Saint Lucia and NIPRO, a subsidiary of the National Insurance Corporation.
NIPRO Chairperson Everistus Jn Marie said construction continued amidst supply chain disruptions, heavy and prolonged rainfall during the hurricane season, and labour and material shortages during a wider construction boom. He added that the project remained within the agreed contractual budget.
“With the furnishings and fittings now in place, the policemen and women are expected to occupy the premises fairly soon,” Jn Marie said.
The BOLT arrangement is also expected to be used for the planned Vieux Fort Administrative Complex, another partnership between NIPRO and the Government of Saint Lucia.
