Emma Hippolyte addressing SLP supporters on Thursday evening.
As part of ongoing investigations into the Lambirds Academy scam, police have conducted searches at the Ministry of Commerce, Business Development, Investment and Consumer Affairs and the Invest Saint Lucia Office.
Commerce Minister Emma Hippolyte made this disclosure at a Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) public meeting held at the Castries Market Steps on Thursday evening, while noting that her ministry has been shaken up by the scam.
Hippolyte told the gathering that employees of both offices were questioned and made sworn statements to the police. These same employees may have to appear in court.
She said her ministry is cooperating fully with the police on this matter. This message was conveyed to Minister of National Security Victor La Cobiniere and the Commissioner of Police.
“I will make a statement in parliament on the matter. I will provide a chronology of events as I know them,” the minister told the large gathering of SLP supporters on Thursday.
Hippolyte said her silence on the matter is not because of disinterest or disrespect to the people of Saint Lucia, but merely because it is a legal matter, which now has the attention of the court.
“For this reason I chose not to say not one word or take any action that would influence this case, one way or another,” she explained.
Hippolyte said she has been paying close attention to comments made by citizens with regards to the scam and was surprised by some of what was said.
“I have listened and observed in disbelief as sons and daughters of Saint Lucia inflict deep wounds on the image and reputation of our beloved country, wounds that will scar the beauty of ‘Fair Helen’ for generations, wounds that would have significant economic costs to our country,” she explained.
The minister assured the gathering that she will continue to serve with honour and perform her best.
She also reminded the gathering that the matter was discussed at a recent cabinet meeting, where it was decided that government will conduct an independent inquiry in due course.
Four men have been arrested and charged with human trafficking and money laundering in connection with the alleged internet scam at Lambirds Academy that left a group of foreigners stranded in St. Lucia.