St. Clair Leacock, Deputy Prime Minister on Tuesday, spoke to serious policy statements regarding the new administration’s philosophy and the future of the relationship with Taiwan.
Leacock’s speech outlined the philosophy of the “New Democratic Party administration “and emphasized a shift in focus from physical infrastructure to human development:
Priorities: He stated that while “bricks and mortar” are important, they will take “second place to people’s development”.
Specific Goals: The administration aims to lift basic wages, improve human conditions at the workplace, and prioritize health, safety, and education.
Self-Worth: He declared a desire to drive integrity and a sense of worthiness among citizens, creating a “society of second chance and opportunity”.
Patience: Acknowledging some public impatience with the new government, he reassured the public, saying, “Sweet Jesus, we will deliver and we will attend to your needs”.
Leacock described the relationship with Taiwan as one that offers a “hand up” rather than just a “hand out,” helping St. Vincent and the Grenadines aspire to be a “first world country”, He affirmed that the two nations are “padded up” and going to “bat for a long long time,” indicating a commitment to a lasting partnership.
Leacock playfully acknowledge that his colleagues expected him to focus solely on the fire truck and ignore the food donation. However, he asserted that “rice is also a part of national security”. He agreed with the event chairperson’s assessment that food security and social security are intrinsic components of national security, just as bush fires are relevant to food security.
Regarding the donated fire truck, Leacock addressed the lobbying efforts of Minister Shevern John to have the truck stationed in the North Windward area. He joked that while his heart might be with her, the Prime Minister has final oversight.
He reassured the nation that regardless of where the truck is stationed, the service is national: “When we out one fire, we out all fires”.