By Caribbean News Global contributor
CASTRIES, St Lucia – Prime minister and minister for national security, Philip J. Pierre, has taken steps to advance gender equality and women empowerment with the appointment of three women in high-ranking leadership positions namely, the appointment of Crusita Descartes-Pelius, Commissioner of Police (Ag.), senator, Allison Jean and president of the senate, Alvina Reynolds.
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In a historic outreach, prime minister Pierre’s three appointments has to some extent – defined his administration.
On Monday, October 17, prime minister Pierre, announced the appointment of Crusita Descartes-Pelius as the Commissioner of Police (Ag.), to succeed police commissioner Milton Desir, who commenced pre-retirement leave on October 14.
Desir’s contract as police commissioner officially ends on December 9 and paves the way for the announcement of a new commissioner of police.
“This is a historic time for the women of the country and is a testimony of our confidence in the women of Saint Lucia. […] Her training and 34 years of service to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) have readied her for this critical position of leadership at a time when the region faces a number of security threats, especially gun violence,” said the prime minister and minister for national security.
Crusita Descartes-Pelius, Commissioner of Police (Ag.), is a decorated police officer with more than three decades of experience in law enforcement. She previously served as the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) responsible for corporate services and strategic operations.
Commissioner of Police (Ag.), Pelius at the October 17 ceremony said: “I would like to thank prime minister for the confidence he has placed in me to head the organization at such a challenging time.” Let me assure you, sir, that I will do my best, and I am looking forward to the support of the men and women of the organization as I lead.”
At a previous sitting of the senate, Thursday, October 20, Allison Jean was sworn in as a senator.
ALVINA REYNOLDS DENOUNCES CLAIMS OF BEING ‘SENATE PRESIDENT’
“Senator Alvina Reynolds ahead of the October 20 sitting of the upper house remained mum on her alleged appointment as president of the senate. Senator Reynolds informed the media of the selection process for the new president and that at present no one holds the post.”~ MBC Prime
Today, Thursday, November 24, at a sitting of the senate, Alvina Reynolds was sworn in as president of the senate to succeed attorney at law Stanley Felix who was fired on the advice of the prime minister after he was charged with “perverting the course of justice”.
Alvina Reynolds represented the Babonneau constituency for the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) from 2011 to 2016. She is the first female member of parliament for Babonneau and former minister for health, wellness, human services and gender relations.
