ST LUCIA-Opposition leader calls for a reduction in gas prices.

CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – The leader of the main opposition (UWP leader Allen Chastanet has challenged the government decisions that he believes have negatively impacted the cost of living in Saint Lucia while demanding a reduction in gas prices.

“The price of oil on the world market has now dropped to $70 a barrel, leaving no justification for maintaining inflated prices at the pump, especially given the impact on households and small businesses. By this, we demand that by November 1st, 2024, you take the necessary action to reduce the cost of gas,” said Chastanet, who was reading an excerpt from an open letter to Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre detailing how he believes the government has erred in its economic judgment and decision-making.

“It is affecting households and the cost of electricity, and because businesses have to pass on the increased gas price over their operating costs, it’s increasing the profit margin required to succeed and stay alive. And this is creating a horrible spiral effect, where we’re seeing that prices are going up,” he noted.

Concerning the government-implemented Health and Security Levy, Chastanet pointed to an occasion where he believes the government acted unfairly by granting a waiver for a particular businessman.

The opposition leader also questioned whether the levy, initiated in 2023, only applies to certain members of the public.

“Households are now burdened with increased costs, and small businesses are struggling under the added financial load. On June 12th, 2024, the public was made alarmingly aware that the cabinet of ministers had granted concessions to a businessman by waiving the 2.5% levy for his project. This selective exemption is patently unfair,” Chastanet said.

“If you can justify this for one individual, extending this relief to all the people you serve is only fair. As stated in previous correspondence on this matter, this blatant inconsistency sends a distressing and unacceptable message that all are not making the sacrifices,” the former Prime Minister and Minister of Finance said.