Saint Lucia has taken a significant step in strengthening its national security infrastructure with the commissioning of the new Gros Islet Police Division Headquarters, a modern facility described by Prime Minister and Minister for National Security Philip J. Pierre as a defining moment for law enforcement on the island.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Pierre said the project was born out of an acknowledgment that police officers had been forced to operate for years under unacceptable conditions. “I said to the police, I apologize on behalf of the government for having you work in these conditions,” Pierre recalled. “People must understand that politicians, some of us have a conscience. We decided that we would work on ensuring the police in Gros Islet have better working conditions.”
The Prime Minister described the $35 million facility as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to national security. “We have delivered to the people of Saint Lucia a $35 million project built by Saint Lucians, for Saint Lucians, and for members of the police force,” he said. “This government has made the most investment in the police than any previous government.”
Pierre stressed that modern policing requires modern infrastructure. “The police must have the necessary training, equipment, and conditions to do their job. Our responsibility is to give them the resources to serve the people without fear or favor.”
Deputy Commissioner of Police Roland Philip reflected on the realities officers endured at the former station, where privacy and operational efficiency were compromised. “If a member of the public wanted to speak with me privately, I literally had to walk them outside the station near the fence to ensure confidentiality,” Philip said. “My office was separated by half-inch plywood. Conversations could be heard clearly.”
He described the new headquarters as more than a building, but a renewed commitment to higher standards of service. “This newly commissioned headquarters stands as a tangible commitment to the people of Gros Islet that the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is serious about strengthening the security architecture of this division,” Philip stated. “It signals progress, it signals respect, and it signals a renewed dedication to service.”
Philip urged officers to see the facility as an opportunity to elevate professionalism. “You have been entrusted with one of the most modern stations in the English-speaking Caribbean. Make it a flagship of professionalism and a model of community policing.”
Chairman of the National Insurance Property Development and Management Company (NIPRO), Evaristus Jn Marie, said the project brings long-awaited relief to officers and underscores the importance of investing in social infrastructure.
“Police officers had to endure deplorable conditions, and this facility will enhance their effectiveness in carrying out their duties,” he said.
Jn Marie noted that the nearly $46 million project was completed within budget despite supply chain disruptions, labour shortages and adverse weather, while generating employment for close to 100 workers. “This project demonstrates NIC’s commitment to nation-building through the financing of critical social infrastructure,” he added.
Minister for Crime Prevention Jeremiah Norbert praised the modern design of the facility, highlighting specialized features including a gun range aimed at improving operational readiness. “This facility is equipped to support modern policing, and I encourage officers to make full use of it in serving the people of Gros Islet,” Norbert said.
Prime Minister Pierre further outlined broader investments in law enforcement, including new stations, custody suites, vehicles and protective equipment, as part of a wider strategy to enhance public safety. “Our goal is to make Saint Lucia the best place to live and work in the region,” he said. “When the police perform their duties effectively, they serve the people of this country.”
With officers set to occupy the new headquarters shortly, officials say the facility marks a major advancement in policing capacity, service delivery and public confidence in Saint Lucia’s national security institutions
