The St. Lucia government has defended its decision to seek a four-month extension — from June 1, to Sept. 30 — of the state of emergency (SOE), saying it allows for the authorities to move swiftly between phases, especially as COVID-19 evolves.
“This would not be possible under normal circumstances. We can plan and be prepared for COVID-19, but all of us who watch the international news will observe that this virus is ever-changing and we need to adapt accordingly. Therefore, our state of readiness today may be very different next week depending on the effects of its impact,” Prime Minister Allen Chastanet told legislators.
The Prime Minister noted that having examined the actions of countries in the Caribbean and internationally, it is clear that a SOE is the best mechanism to secure timely and seamless execution of protocols and guidelines.
He said that a SOE “is no small matter” and comes as a result of a declaration by government in response to an extraordinary situation posing a fundamental threat to the country.
“In our case, we face two fundamental threats: a pandemic. Secondly, the risk of a financial/economic crisis. It remains one of the most if not the most effective mechanisms in dealing with events, which pose a fundamental threat to a country and it reminds us all to remain vigilant.”
Chastanet likened the virus to a hurricane “like no other that we have faced in this region”.
“It has the potential to wipe out entire nations and cripple economies if not managed properly. Like a hurricane, the best chance of survival is to prepare. A state of emergency for the next four months will allow us to continue to implement and adequately monitor the effectiveness of the measures we have put in place and to make quick adjustments as required,” he said.
He explained that the government has been responsible in its actions under the Emergency Powers Act, elaborating that “every time we amended or adjusted any part of the Act, every single time we put a new measure in place, we reported and informed the people of St. Lucia.”
“We explained why every step of the way. The recordings, videos and constant reporting is available for all to see,” adding that the government has confidence in its five-phase approach to reopening the society.
