The meeting focused on how the 5Cs can assist the Government of Saint Lucia in advancing national initiatives aimed at safeguarding the island’s water resources

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre today met with Dr. Colin Young, Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (5Cs), to explore expanded collaboration to strengthen Saint Lucia’s climate resilience, particularly in the area of water security.

The meeting focused on how the 5Cs can assist the Government of Saint Lucia in advancing national initiatives aimed at safeguarding the island’s water resources in the face of increasing climate pressures such as drought, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events. Discussions also examined opportunities for technical support, capacity building, and access to climate financing to implement projects that improve water management and resilience.

The Government of Saint Lucia has identified the water sector as a priority area for national resilience. Prime Minister Pierre has repeatedly emphasized the importance of rainwater harvesting, water conservation, and the modernization of water infrastructure to ensure sustainable and reliable access to water for communities across the island.

Today’s engagement reflects Saint Lucia’s commitment to practical climate adaptation measures that protect critical resources while strengthening national preparedness for climate-related shocks.

Prime Minister Pierre also serves as the CARICOM Lead Head of Government for Sustainable Development & Climate Change. In that role, he chairs the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Climate Change and Climate Finance and leads regional advocacy on climate issues at major international forums, including global climate negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Under his leadership, Caribbean ministers coordinate strategic regional priorities including climate finance, loss and damage, adaptation, and the transition to sustainable energy systems.

The Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, headquartered in Belize, is the region’s primary institution for coordinating climate policy, research, and project implementation.

Through partnerships with international donors and institutions, the Centre supports Caribbean governments in building resilience across critical sectors such as water, agriculture, health, and infrastructure.

The discussions between Prime Minister Pierre and Dr. Young underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration between regional institutions and national governments to accelerate climate resilience initiatives that directly benefit Caribbean communities.

Further engagements between the Government of Saint Lucia and the CCCCC are expected as both parties work to advance practical solutions to safeguard the island’s water security and climate resilience.