OFFICIALS WEIGH-IN ON ICC CRICKET TOURNAMENT

The island's hosting of its first ICC Men's T20 World Cup matches drew praise from proponents and a visceral reaction from naysayers. Tourism minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire reports that spectators and cricket officials were satisfied with Saint Lucia's tournament preparations. Hilaire shared feedback during Tuesday's pre-cabinet media briefing. The minister's positive assessment comes as the island evaluates its performance as a world cup venue. Opposition leader Allen Chastanet previously criticized the government's multimillion-dollar investment in sports facilities, claiming it has not significantly boosted tourism. The contrasting views highlight ongoing debate about the economic impact of hosting international sporting events in Saint Lucia.