Local Association of Retired Persons Celebrates

The Saint Lucia Association of Retired Persons (SLARP), formerly known as the Saint Lucia Pensioners Association Inc. was established in March 1985 but, over the years, the Association has encountered several difficulties. Notwithstanding, the group continues to survive and has been quite active.

One of the Association’s greatest assets is the wealth of information that resides within its general membership. Many of SLARP’s members are individuals who have held high offices within the Public Service—from principals to permanent secretaries.

Within the last two years, the Association has achieved some remarkable feats. Outstanding achievements include the hosting of a workshop out of which came a new vision and mission. The Association now has an official office at La Clery and was able also to go through legal maneuverings to have a name change. The Association’s name change is a game changer. It allows all retirees of sound character to gain membership to the organization.

Currently members enjoy discounts at various stores and from various professionals, including doctors.

As SLARP celebrates its 30th anniversary—a milestone by any measurement—there is no better time to consolidate its efforts to seek unification with groups, locally, regionally and internationally, whose overall mandate is similar.  The Association is appealing to persons from all walks of life who qualify to come forward and have a say in its future direction.

For the Association’s 30th Anniversary, Barbados’ former Deputy Prime Minister and the Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) current VP, Billie Miller, will be the guest speaker.  The event is scheduled for Sunday March 1, at Auberge Seraphin. Prior to her address, Association members will gather at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at 10 a.m. to worship and pray.

Several other activities are on the Associations calendar as it observes 30 years of existence.