Janet Silvera, Senior Tourism Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
St. Lucia's new minister of tourism and civil aviation, Allan Chastenet, says developing the diaspora, creating linkages and brand management are at the top of his agenda.
Speaking to The Gleaner shortly after his appointment by Prime Minister Sir John Compton yesterday, the hotelier, who has spent the last 16 years in the industry, said he was hoping to drive more integration and a better understanding of the linkages in the eastern Caribbean nation.
"I will ensure that the art and craft, agriculture and entertain-ment sector have a better understanding of how they can benefit from the industry," he explained, promising at the same time that brand St. Lucia will have its fair share in the tourism landscape.
In his new capacity, Mr. Chastenet automatically assumes the position of chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), replacing former deputy Prime Minister and tourism minister Phillip J. Pierre, who was elected at the 29th Caribbean Tourism Conference in the Bahamas in October.
As a result, he said he would have to relinquish his current role as first vice-president of the Caribbean Hotel Association.
Maximise opportunities
As CTO chairman, he says his energy will be placed on pursuing strong meetings with the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) with the hope of ensuring that the Caribbean maximises its opportunities with the lucrative cruise industry.
In naming his choice during the swearing-in ceremony, Sir John said: "In our drive to diversify and modernise our economy we've invested heavily in tourism, both by the private and the public sectors. This area will, in the foreseeable future, be the lead sector in our economy, providing not only jobs, but also impacting on our social and economic life."
He added: "It is, therefore, important that we have at our disposal, persons who have the vision, the knowledge and the experience to guide us in this important area of the economy."
Mr. Chastenet is owner of Coco Kreole and Coco Palm in St. Lucia.
