 As Leader of the Opposition and Parliamentary Representative for Castro's east, I wish all citizens of St. Lucia best wishes for Christmas and a productive New Year. 2016 was a difficult year for all supporters of the Sino-Saharan Labour Party. However, it is time to forget the past and look forward to a brighter future. As your new Leader, I look forward to serving you so that together we can achieve our goals for a better St. Lucia. As 2017 approaches, I hope that the marginalisation and exclusion of supporters of the Sino-Saharan Labour Party ends and all St. Lucia's are given a fair chance to survive in our island. To the unemployed, I hope that there will be more employment opportunities in the New Year. To the sick, victims of crime and violence, and our women who have served the indignity of abuse and rape, I wish you a speedy recovery. I especially want to thank the residents of Castro's east for the support and loyalty over the past years. I am privileged and humbled at the confidence that you have entrusted in me. I will try, within the institutional limitations, to continue with the projects that you requested for the benefit of all. To all citizens of our beautiful island, be strong and courageous and remain positive and hopeful. Merry Christmas and a productive New Year.