The United Workers Party (UWP) is proud to announce the ratification of several key motions during our 43rd Annual Convention held on Sunday in Dennery South. These resolutions will form a critical part of our policy agenda upon forming the next government and reflect our ongoing commitment to improving the lives of all Saint Lucians. The motions cover essential areas aimed at strengthening key sectors, providing opportunities for our people, ensuring a prosperous future for Saint Lucia.
Key Motions Ratified:
National Health Insurance for All
A UWP government will continue the work started in 2021 by implementing a National Health Insurance (NHI) system to ensure that every Saint Lucian has access to quality and affordable healthcare. Our NHI system will include essential services such as doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription drugs and specialized treatments.
Fair and Transparent Taxi Permit Transfers
The UWP will establish a fair, transparent system for the transfer of taxi permits within the tourism sector, ensuring accessibility, efficiency and fairness. This will help preserve the integrity of the tourism taxi service while promoting continuity for qualified family members or individuals.
Revitalizing Agriculture & Reintroducing Agriculture in Schools
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Saint Lucia’s economy. The UWP will reinvest in agriculture by establishing a statutory body to redevelop the sector, reintroducing agriculture as a core subject in schools and providing much-needed infrastructure and financial support for farmers.
Eliminating Property Tax for Seniors
A UWP government will remove property tax for homeowners aged 65 and older, ensuring financial relief for retirees and promoting aging with dignity.
Restoring the eBook Program in Schools
The UWP will reinstate the eBook program, ensuring that students have access to digital devices and strong internet connectivity, with active involvement from educators, parents and students to create a sustainable digital learning environment.
Affordable Housing for Saint Lucians
The UWP will launch a national Affordable Housing Scheme, utilizing Crown lands and collaborating with private developers to provide affordable homes, with accessible financing options for young people and low-income families.
Modern Bus Terminals in Castries & Vieux Fort
The UWP will construct modern bus terminals in Castries and Vieux Fort, designed to improve the commuting experience with amenities like shelter, seating, vending spaces and modern bathrooms.
Protecting Our Environment and Beaches
The UWP will strengthen partnerships to protect and maintain our beaches, ensuring public access and providing necessary facilities to enhance both resident and visitor enjoyment.
Extending Passport Validity to 10 Years
A UWP government will extend Saint Lucian passports’ validity to 10 years, reducing costs and ensuring greater convenience for citizens.
Modernizing Castries & Supporting Vendors
The UWP is committed to revitalizing Castries by creating dedicated spaces for vendors and ensuring a balanced, fair approach to city development that supports both economic growth and the needs of vendors.
Correcting Unlawful CIP Discounts
A UWP government will review the Citizenship by Investment (CIP) program to ensure transparency and will correct any unlawful discounts, requiring individuals to pay the proper amount or risk revocation of citizenship.
Introducing Unemployment Benefits Through NIC
The UWP will expand the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) to introduce unemployment benefits, providing workers with essential financial support during periods of job loss.
National Youth Volunteer Program
The UWP will introduce a National Youth Volunteer Program to teach young people social responsibility, leadership and conflict resolution, giving them the opportunity to volunteer in various charities and gain real-world experience.
These motions reaffirm our unwavering commitment to creating a stronger, more prosperous Saint Lucia for all. We are dedicated to delivering real solutions, rebuilding our economy and ensuring every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. More policy statements will be made in the coming weeks.
Together, we will move Saint Lucia forward!
