Castries – Tuesday, February 23, 2010 - The Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) in collaboration with the Royal St. Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) will be enforcing parking restrictions within the roadway immediately outside the George Charles Airport. Enforcement will take effect as of March 01, 2010.

SLASPA, with the Ministry of Communications, Works and Public Utilities in collaboration with the Royal St. Lucia Police Force has for some time now designated the roadway outside George Charles Airport from the entrance to beyond the exit as a "no parking" area. This has been communicated to the motoring public by way of ample signage, however, vehicle operators continue to disregard the law by parking in such restricted areas.

“As the Managers of the Island’s Airports and Seaports, safety and security is a major piority for us. We have sighted a number of safety and security concerns surrounding this practice. This includes congestion outside the airport and potential danger for airport and road users who frequently transverse this road” explained Kennedy Francis, Chief of Ports Police. “Our Port Police Officers are currently issuing warnings to drivers to desist from this practice. However, as of March 1st, 2010 Port Police in conjunction with traffic officers of the Royal St. Lucia Police Force will apply the full force of the law on persons who show disregard” Continued Francis.

SLASPA therefore encourages all vehicle operators seeking to gain access to the Airport or surrounding areas to utilize the permissible parking areas to avoid fines. The public is also encouraged to contact SLASPA at 453-0437 for more information.