STREET VIBES – MARCH 19TH, 2025

With the rising cost of living weighing heavily on households, the government is rolling out a series of relief measures aimed at putting money back into consumers’ pockets. Effective June 1st, the 6% service charge on price-controlled goods has been scrapped—and come July 1st, selected essential items will also be exempt from VAT. In addition, travel will become more affordable, with a 50% cut to airport service charges expected to boost regional tourism and ease travel costs for Saint Lucians.

Caribbean beekeepers have forged the Gros Islet Declaration, a two-year plan to advance apiculture in the region. Developed during the 12th Beekeeping Congress, the initiative aims to strengthen honey trade, enhance testing, and explore honey’s medicinal potential, fostering sustainable growth in the industry.

The National Youth Parliament concluded on February 5th with a heated debate on the Police Powers Act, focusing on the authority granted to the Prime Minister as Minister for National Security and the police over citizens. The session showcased the youth’s grasp of parliamentary procedures and their potential for future political leadership.