August 1, 1997 - At a recent meeting, the St. Lucia Association of Professional Engineers met with the Minister of Communication, Works, Transport and Public Utilities, Senator Calixte George to discuss issues relating to the Engineering Profession.

Of Significant importance to the Association was the development of some form of interaction between the Ministry of Works where the Association would be part of the development process with Government and would provide appropriate advise on national infrastructure and environmental development of St. Lucia.

The Association also discussed the promotion of linkages between foreign and local consultants and contractors through joint ventures in both public and private sector projects.

The Association recommended to the Minister that Government should appoint engineers to Statutory Bodies where these bodies have to deal with engineering implications and suggested that local Engineering Firms would form consortiums to tender on large local projects, particularly where the financing is from local resources.

The training of local engineers was of particular relevance in order that the young engineers obtain the appropriate experience that is required for their professional development.

Amendments to the Engineers Act and the Engineers Registration Act in order to make more relevant to the Engineering Profession and global trends were also discussed. The Minister was very pleased with the discussion and outlined his views and the position of government on the issues discussed. The Association of Professional Engineers is also hoping to meet with the Prime Minister soon.