In a remarkable show of unity, rival gang members from 6ixx and 7even came together in New Village, Castries, on Saturday to sign a peace treaty. This groundbreaking initiative, led by the activist group Strive, aims to curb violence and redirect at-risk youth toward positive paths. With support from Castries Central MP Richard Frederick, who has pledged financial backing for future programs, the event marks a hopeful step toward lasting peace and community restoration.

The World ARC 2025/2026 has officially set sail from Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia, as 30 yachts embark on an epic 26,000-nautical-mile journey around the world. Participants in this 14-month rally will navigate from Saint Lucia to Santa Marta, Colombia, in the first leg of their adventure, showcasing Saint Lucia's vibrant role in the global yachting community.

In his New Year’s address, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre celebrated the significant progress made by his administration over the past year, highlighting achievements in healthcare, education, and infrastructure that have transformed citizens' lives. Looking ahead, he outlined ambitious plans for the upcoming year, emphasizing collaboration to sustain and enhance this growth.

More dust control measures will be implemented this week as work continues on the Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Upgrade Project. A 24-hour water truck will be deployed as paving begins. NAMALCO St. Lucia Ltd. urges the public to remain patient as they work to improve road conditions, reducing travel times and increasing safety between Castries and Soufriere.

What do you think about peace being made between two rival gangs?

The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court is making strides in reducing its case backlog, a key focus highlighted by Acting Chief Justice Mario Michel during the 2025 Law Year opening. Saint Lucia hosted the traditional Ceremonial Opening on Friday, centered on the theme, "Accessibility and Awareness - The ECSC Bridging the Gap through Community Engagement."

Banana farmers in La Resource Dennery are facing severe losses due to banana leaf spot, a fungal disease forcing them to cut down affected trees. With their livelihoods at risk, farmers are calling on authorities for urgent assistance, as they resort to using the damaged fruit as pig feed.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is investigating a fatal shooting in Barre Denis, Castries, which occurred on Thursday, January 9, 2025, around 9:20 p.m. Gabriel Junior Henry, a 22-year-old resident of Barre Denis, was shot and later succumbed to his injuries at the Owen King European Union Hospital. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations.

OECS Bar Association President Jean Dyer is urging Eastern Caribbean governments to enhance justice systems. Speaking at the new law year opening, she highlighted the need for reforms to improve accessibility and fairness, calling for strengthened legal aid to support the most vulnerable.

Today, our people speak to an open mic.

Bambooze Restaurant and Lounge Bar on Rodney Bay strip is temporarily closed after an attempted break-in early Wednesday. The burglars fled empty-handed but left behind damage. Repairs are underway, and the restaurant will reopen on Saturday, January 12. The owner expressed concern over rising crime rates on the island.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has increased road patrols and ticketing, as part of efforts to enhance traffic law enforcement. While the National Association of Driving Schools welcomes the added presence, concerns are being raised about potential delays in the judicial system affecting the Traffic Department’s ability to follow through on court cases. More details on the changes to the department are expected next week.

Unauthorized visits to Maria Islands Nature Reserve are threatening the critically endangered Saint Lucian Racer. The Saint Lucia National Trust warns that illegal activities like open fires and littering could push the world’s rarest snake to extinction. The reserve remains closed, and violators face fines or imprisonment under the Wildlife Protection Act.

A Saint Lucian resident overseas faced disappointment when attempting to collect his birth certificate from the Civil Status Registry last week. The citizen was informed that someone had collected the document on his behalf, despite never authorizing anyone to do so. This has raised concerns about the integrity of the procedures at the registry. Now the man is demanding answers

The Upton Gardens Girls Centre, under the Ministry of Equity, celebrates two clients' completion of its Transformative Programme. The Centre provides a supportive environment for young girls to overcome challenges and build skills. Social Worker Josephine Mayers highlights key initiatives that foster growth and resilience, helping girls prepare for a successful future.

Early childhood centers are facing financial challenges due to the new minimum wage, says the National Association of Early Childhood Practitioners. Many have raised fees, leading parents to seek cheaper options. The association is seeking talks with the Minimum Wage Commission, as some centers have laid off staff. An impact assessment is underway following concerns from various sectors.

Today, our people speak to an open mic.

Veteran journalist Earl Bousquet has been commenting on the planned resignations of Prime Ministers Keith Rowley of Trinidad & Tobago and Justin Trudeau of Canada. Rowley will not seek re-election, and Trudeau will step down once a new Liberal Party leader is chosen. Bousquet highlights their decisions as examples of leaders knowing when to step aside, promoting peaceful transitions of power.