Motorists travelling through northern Saint Lucia are being advised to prepare for heavier-than-normal traffic and temporary delays as the island hosts the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM from Sunday, July 5 to Wednesday, July 8.
The Government of Saint Lucia says temporary traffic adjustments and heightened security measures will be implemented, particularly in the northern part of the island, where most official activities will take place.
Speaking on behalf of the Office of the Prime Minister’s Communications Office last week, Kirby Allain said the measures are necessary to facilitate the movement of regional leaders and official delegations.
“Well, the Government of Saint Lucia wishes to advise the public that as the island hosts activities associated with the 51st regular meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM from Sunday, July 5th to the 8th, temporary traffic adjustments and heightened security measures will be in effect, particularly in the north of Saint Lucia,” Allain said.
He urged motorists to make the necessary arrangements before travelling during the four-day period.
“Motorists are encouraged to allow additional travel time, plan their journeys accordingly and to comply with directions issued by the Royal St. Lucia Police Force Traffic Department,” he stated.
Allain also advised that members of the public should expect intermittent disruptions as visiting dignitaries move between official venues.
“Members of the public should also expect occasional delays as official delegations travel between venues,” he said.
According to Allain, efforts have been made to minimize the impact on the public by limiting the number of locations being used for conference activities.
“I think the government is trying to reduce that as much as possible to ensure that the activities surrounding the CARICOM Heads of Government are in, I think, basically two places,” he explained. “So, to reduce the amount of disruptions going back and forth between venues.”
The Government has apologized for any inconvenience caused by the temporary traffic measures while thanking the public for its cooperation during the regional summit.
“The government apologizes for any inconvenience these temporary measures may cause and thanks the public for their patience, understanding and cooperation as St. Lucia welcomes regional leaders and delegates for this important regional meeting,” Allain said.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force Traffic Department is expected to issue additional traffic advisories through its official communication channels as required throughout the conference period.