Government Gives Squatters Chance for Land Aquisition

Friday, January 28, 2000 – Private citizens illegally occupy a significant proportion of developable land owned by Government. "Squatting has become so prevalent throughout the island, that such settlements have become a distinguishable feature of all major towns and villages in Saint Lucia," so says Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Kenny Anthony. Dr. Anthony was at the time making an address at the launching of the Program for the Regularization of Unplanned Developments (PROUD), on Thursday, January 27, 2000.

According to the Prime Minister, there is need for proper development if St. Lucians are to enjoy proper roads, recreational facilities, adequate drainage, proper garbage collection and reliable public transport. "This cannot happen if development is haphazard," said Anthony.

The programme promises to give squatters an opportunity to legitimately acquire their own home and the land it stands on. Already $1.5 million dollars have been approved to begin the process. The Caribbean Development Bank and other funding agencies have been approached for infrastructural requirements, relocation costs and concessionary sales.

To discourage further squatting, Government will declare all targeted settlements and proposed relocation areas, as Special Enforcement Areas. Government will also ensure vigilant policing of these areas by the DCA. Any persons initiating any illegal development within a Special Enforcement area will not qualify for any concessionary assistance under PROUD or any other housing program.

The scope of activities under this proposed programme involves implementation of planned land developments, rationalisation of squatted areas, relocation of residents and effecting mechanisms for land transfer.

Areas to be targeted in Phase 1 of the PROUD Programme include La Ressource/Derriere Mome, ShantyTown, Garrand, Des Barras, La Croix/Laborie, Ravine Poisson/Bexon and Piaye Village.

[ Home ] [ Up ] [ Search for 2000 Press Releases ] [Site Help]

© 2001 Government Information Service. All rights reserved.

Read our privacy guidelines.