New Parks and Beaches Commission

by Lucius Doxerie

August 2, 1997 - At a recent meeting with the newly Elected Parks and Beaches Commission, Minister with the responsibility for Tourism, Hon. Phillip J. Pierre, disclosed, that the commission would be given a measure of latitude to perform its duties with little interference from the Minister.

The Parks and Beaches Commission, according to the minister is mandated under the Parks and Beaches Act, No. 4. Of 1963, and requires among the commission's wide ranging powers to control, maintain, and develop public parks, gardens and beaches of St. Lucia; to provide a life guard service at such of the public beaches of St. Lucia as it seems fit; to secure the observance of signs and to advise the Minister on the erection of beaches and ancillary recreational facilities.

Unlike the previous commission which acted as a direct branch of the Ministry of Tourism, the present body will perform its functions in a more independent capacity. Not only will it have at its service, its own secretariat, but the new entity will possess the wherewithal to initiate and execute innovative projects for the mutual benefit of tourists and locals alike.

The new commission will, from time to time, report its activities to the minister as required by law.

That the cross representation of the body, was to ensure that the relevant expertise required, was, indeed, forthcoming, in a dynamic tourist industry, was clearly spelt out by Minister Pierre.

The chairman of the new commission is Edmund Leopold. Other selected members from around the island are: Julius James, Vernon Montoute, Joseph St. Toute, Celeste Larcher, Wayne Vitalis, Brian Bernard and Theophilus Jeffrey.

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