The United Workers Party (UWP) remains committed to truth and transparency, especially when it comes to critical issues such as agriculture and food security in Saint Lucia. Recent statements made by members of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) are not only misleading but also undermine the challenges faced by our farmers and fisherfolk.
According to the 2023 Social and Economic Review, a report prepared by the Ministry of Finance, the facts are clear: Saint Lucia’s agriculture sector experienced a severe decline in 2023, with real value added dropping by 17%. The report outlines specific sub-sector declines as follows:
● Fishing: Decreased by 4.6%
● Livestock Production: Decreased by 17.3%
● Chicken Production: Decreased by 11.7%
● Pork Production: Decreased by 41.6%
● Egg Production: Decreased by 7.8%
● Banana Production: Decreased by 45.5%
● Non-Banana Crops: Decreased by 17.3%
● Regional Exports of Bananas: Dropped by 54%
These figures, found between pages 32 and 36 of the review, paint a sobering picture of the state of agriculture under the current SLP administration. The decline across multiple sectors
not only threatens the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk but also jeopardizes the future of Saint Lucia’s food security.
This reckless mismanagement of the agriculture sector is deeply concerning. While the SLP continues to mislead the public, the UWP has a plan to “Right the Wrongs” and revitalize agriculture in Saint Lucia. Our farmers and fisherfolk deserve leadership that values their contributions and invests in their future.
We call on the SLP to stop spreading misinformation and focus on solutions to the crisis at hand. The UWP stands ready to restore growth, ensure food security, and support our agricultural community. Saint Lucia deserves better.
