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Contact:
Prime Minister's Secretary
Friday, November 18, 2005 -
The Government of St. Lucia has acquired the house where Derek and Roddy Walcott
lived and intends to hand it over to the St. Lucia National Trust to become part
of the country’s national patrimony.
That was disclosed by Prime Minister Dr Kenny D. Anthony, during a meeting with
representatives of the Council of the St. Lucia National Trust on Thursday
(November 17, 2005).
The house, on Chausee Road in Castries, was home to the island’s second Nobel
Prize Winner and his late brother. It was eventually sold and its last use was
as a commercial printery, the Lithographic Press. The printery has since ceased
operation.
The Prime Minister told the National Trust Councillors that the Government would
like the building to be restored as close as possible to its original design, so
that it truly reflects the original home of Derek and Roddy Walcott.
The PM explained that the Trust would have to interview several persons who are
familiar with the home, including Derek Walcott and his sister, to facilitate
its restoration.
Chairman of the St. Lucia National Trust, Andy Lake, welcomed the news that
another property acquired by the Government will be handed to the Trust.
He also expressed the appreciation of members of the Council for the decision y
Cabinet to assign this important national task to the National Trust.
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