Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre today met with Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (5Cs), to discuss expanding collaboration to strengthen Saint Lucia’s climate resilience, with a particular focus on water security.
According to a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister, the meeting explored how the 5Cs could assist the Government of Saint Lucia in advancing national initiatives to safeguard the island’s water resources amid increasing climate pressures.
The discussions centred on “how the 5Cs can assist the Government of Saint Lucia in advancing national initiatives aimed at safeguarding the island’s water resources in the face of increasing climate pressures such as drought, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events.”
Talks also examined opportunities for technical support, capacity building and access to climate financing to implement projects aimed at improving water management and strengthening resilience.
The Government of Saint Lucia has identified the water sector as a priority area in its national resilience strategy. Prime Minister Pierre has repeatedly emphasised the importance of rainwater harvesting, water conservation and the modernisation of water infrastructure to ensure reliable and sustainable access to water for communities across the island.
Today’s engagement reflects Saint Lucia’s commitment to implementing practical climate adaptation measures that protect critical resources while strengthening national preparedness for climate-related shocks.
Prime Minister Pierre also serves as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Lead Head of Government for Sustainable Development and Climate Change. In that capacity, he chairs the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Climate Change and Climate Finance and leads regional advocacy on climate issues at major international forums, including global negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Under his leadership, Caribbean ministers coordinate strategic regional priorities including climate finance, loss and damage, climate adaptation and the transition to sustainable energy systems.
The Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, headquartered in Belize, is the region’s primary institution responsible for coordinating climate policy, research and project implementation.
Through partnerships with international donors and institutions, the Centre supports Caribbean governments in building resilience across key sectors such as water, agriculture, health and infrastructure.
The Office of the Prime Minister said the discussions between Pierre and Dr. Young underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration between regional institutions and national governments to accelerate climate resilience initiatives that directly benefit Caribbean communities.
Further engagements between the Government of Saint Lucia and the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre are expected as both parties work to advance practical solutions to safeguard the island’s water security and climate resilience.
