One third-country national leaves Saint Lucia

One of the two third-country nationals who wanted to return home has now officially left Saint Lucia.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre made the disclosure at Monday’s pre-Cabinet press briefing, saying the individual left on September 15. Arrangements are now being made for the second person who indicated a desire to return home to leave as well.

This means four of the six third-country nationals who were deported from the United States are still in Saint Lucia, and none have said they want to leave at this time.

For their first seven days on the island, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) provided accommodation for the group. Now that this period is over, the Government of Saint Lucia is responsible for those who remain, including covering their basic needs.

Pierre said the four people are now staying at a guest house.

As previously reported by St. Lucia Times, the Government has also hired a liaison officer to keep in touch with the individuals and help them adjust to life in the country.

However, it remains unclear who will pay for the third-country nationals’ accommodation.

At Monday’s briefing, St. Lucia Times asked the Prime Minister directly whether the US is footing the bill.

Pierre said Saint Lucia has received “some monies” from Washington, but negotiations continue over a larger financial package.

He did not provide more details, saying negotiations are still underway.

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The article One third-country national leaves Saint Lucia is from St. Lucia Times.