By Sharefil Gaillard

   Speaking at a ceremony to mark the compensation of semi-pro athletes, he emphasized the importance of youth and sports development in Saint Lucia.

   “During the opening, I pledged that I’d make some money available from my salary for the footballers who study while they’re playing football. I’ll give them some level of compensation if they’re doing their CXC’s or any type of academic education. That promise still holds,” he promised.

   In his 30 years of active politics, Pierre, the MP for Castries East, notes that his Administration has invested the most into youth development and sports. He estimates that his administration will have dished out almost $100 million in youth development initiatives.

   “This government has invested more in the young people of Saint Lucia in the present and in the past. My calculations tell me that by the time this term is over, we’d have invested over $100 million in the young people of Saint Lucia”, he said.

   The Prime Minister added that he will allocate funds to market and expose the importance of the Semi-Pro League, stating that youth need to be more enthusiastic about the developments in the country.

   Dozens of semi-pro footballers are due to receive a monthly stipend, training and travel allowance as the Saint Lucia Football Season advances.