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.... Editorial

17th July 2010
“Keep Carnival Safe”

Law enforcement officials are hoping that “unfortunate incidents” do not mar the remaining Carnival-related activities that culminate next Tuesday. Nevertheless, the Royal St. Lucia Police Force says it is working feverishly to ensure that its deployment of human resources achieves its objective.
In light of the current atmosphere of too-frequent incidence of violent crime that prevails, we at The VOICE are seriously concerned … primarily about the safety of all citizens and visitors during the Carnival period as well as the possible negative fallout – especially to our Tourism product – that could ensue, were not those who are prone to committing those crimes not kept in check.
St. Lucia cannot afford any further damage to its image as a vacation – or investment – destination.
VOICE reporter Stan Bishop attended a press briefing held on Thursday afternoon at Chesterfield House, where acting police commissioner of police Vernon Francois explained that the police have two plans: one for vehicular traffic control and one for policing.
Police operations will include a sustained patrol around the city area during the Carnival period, so while activities are taking place in the city centre, officers will be patrolling in the areas that are still considered ‘hot spots’; for example, the Marchand and Grass Street areas.
 
 

Traffic checks will also be done in areas leading to Castries, so as to prevent weapons ending up at the cultural spectacle. A heavy police presence will also be posted in the city circuit to ensure safety.
According to deputy commissioner of police in charge of operations, Pancras Albert, J’Ouvert will last from 4:30 a,m. to 8 a,m. Revelers will assemble at Vigie Sports Complex and make their way down to the city centre. Parade of bands will commence at 10 a.m. near Caribbean Cinemas en route to Castries and will end at 6 p.m. on both days.
ASP Milton Desir told the media that mobile police patrols will be ensuring the smooth movement of traffic and is also calling on motorists to obey the traffic and safety rules.
In the absence of voluntary self-restraint by would-be perpetrators of illegality, increased vigilance by the police is one of the most important factors in ensuring that we come through this period designed for stress-free celebration without tragic incidents that could scar the image of what is supposed to be one of our most joyous and carefree events.
The VOICE wishes to take the opportunity to wish all our citizens a happy drug-and-crime-free carnival.
(Adapted from a report filed by Stan Bishop)

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