salcc students debate police powers bill at youth parliament

SALCC Students Debate Police Powers Bill at Youth Parliament

As part of Saint Lucia's 46th Independence celebrations, students of SALCC participated in the annual Youth Parliament, alongside young people from across the island. This forum, which took place on February 4 and 5, 2025, exposed young leaders to dynamics of governance, legislative discussions, and national development.

This year's parliament centered around the Suppression of Escalated Crime (Police Powers) Bill, which was introduced by Prime Minister and Minister for National Security Hon. Philip J. Pierre in March 2023. The bill, which was passed in the Lower House with amendments, grants the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force expanded powers to respond to crime hotspots and maintain public order.

The Youth Parliamentarians passionately debated its implications on public safety, civil liberties, and economic stability. The Sir Arthur Lewis Community College was well represented in the proceedings, with students from various academic disciplines taking on key parliamentary roles;

(Left to Right) SALCC students: Ethan Glasgow, Rochelle Vitalis, Naeem Philbert, Jada Volsen and Stevenia JeanBaptiste.
(Left to Right) SALCC students: Ethan Glasgow, Rochelle Vitalis, Naeem Philbert, Jada Volsen and Stevenia JeanBaptiste.

By engaging in debates on real-world legislation, these future leaders gained the firsthand experience needed to navigate the political world. SALCC, through its thriving debate society, has become a go-to collaborator for student debate forums and competitions. The College remains committed to equipping students to contribute meaningfully to national discussions and drive positive change for Saint Lucia.