29 May 2025
By Publisher Ray Carmen
The Honourable Philip Joseph Pierre, born on 18 September 1954 in Castries, Saint Lucia, has been serving as the nation’s 9th Prime Minister since 28 July 2021. A stalwart of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), he also holds the portfolios of Minister for Finance, Economic Development, and the Youth Economy. Pierre’s political journey is marked by a steadfast commitment to public service and economic empowerment.
Early Life and Professional Background
Raised in a family dedicated to public service—his mother, Evelyn, was a schoolteacher, and his father, Auguste, a policeman—Pierre’s formative years instilled in him the values of discipline and community engagement. He pursued higher education at the University of the West Indies, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a Master of Business Administration. Before entering politics, Pierre gained experience in the private sector, working in finance and management consultancy.
Political Career
Pierre joined the SLP in 1985 and has been the Member of Parliament for Castries East since 1997. His ministerial roles have included:
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Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, and International Financial Services (1997–2000)
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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Port Services, and Transport (2011–2016)
In 2016, following the SLP’s electoral defeat, Pierre was elected as the party leader and served as Leader of the Opposition until 2021. His leadership culminated in the SLP’s victory in the 2021 general elections, leading to his appointment as Prime Minister.
Governance and Policy Initiatives
As Prime Minister, Pierre has prioritized policies aimed at improving the lives of Saint Lucians. His administration’s 2025–2026 budget reflects a commitment to social welfare, including:
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No new taxes imposed
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Full August salaries for temporary teachers
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Allocation of $250,000 to support community development initiatives
These measures underscore his focus on education, economic development, and community empowerment.
International Engagement and Climate Advocacy
On the global stage, Pierre has been an advocate for climate action and sustainable development. He has called for increased investment in renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, and emphasized the importance of international support for climate adaptation and resilience efforts.
