St. Lucia Calls for Better Communication in CARICOM

Basseterre — St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre is urging CARICOM leaders to improve direct communication and unity as the regional bloc continues to face disagreement over the reappointment of Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett.

Speaking during his weekly cabinet briefing, Prime Minister Pierre declined to take sides in the ongoing dispute but stressed that stronger, consistent dialogue between heads of government could prevent public misunderstandings.

“Simple and consistent communication between prime ministers could help reduce controversy,” he said.

The issue centres on the reappointment of Dr. Barnett, which was decided during a leaders’ retreat in Nevis in February. Trinidad and Tobago has raised concerns, claiming it was not properly invited to the retreat and calling for greater transparency. However, CARICOM Chairman and St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has maintained that all member states were engaged and has released documentation outlining the communications leading up to the summit.

Prime Minister Pierre, who is set to assume the CARICOM chairmanship in July, said his priority will be to encourage stronger relationships among regional leaders.

For St. Kitts and Nevis residents, the call for better communication is significant as our country currently holds the rotating chairmanship of CARICOM. The Federation continues to play a central role in efforts to resolve the matter and maintain regional cohesion.

The disagreement highlights ongoing challenges within CARICOM but also presents an opportunity for member states to strengthen how they work together on issues that affect all Caribbean people.