by Eulana Weekes
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): The Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries, Marine Resources and Cooperatives in the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has begun an assessment of the Fishers Cooperative Building in Dieppe Bay.
The objective of the assessment is to spark further interest in the fishing industry and propel the sector forward.
On Friday, February 17, 2023, Minister of Agriculture- Hon. Samal Duggins, Permanent Secretary, Miguel Flemming, a team of technical staff and representatives from the Department of Marine Resources visited the Fisher’s Cooperative Building to assess the damage there.
The building has been in need of significant repairs since the passage of Hurricane Irma in 2017. Fishers from St.Pauls, Parson Ground, Newtown Ground and Saddlers have occupied the facility to store and sell their fish. Once the building is repaired, it will be outfitted with a new ice machine that will ensure the preservation of fishers’ catch.
During the 2023 Budget Address, Prime Minister Drew said that Fishing, which is also regarded as the Blue Economy, will receive significant attention within the next five years. He said the Government will ensure the accessibility of key fishing infrastructure in major fishing villages in St.Kitts.
Drew highlighted that the Government will revive the plans envisioned by the former Labour Administration for the establishment of a fishing complex in Dieppe Bay to serve the fisherfolk of Dieppe Bay and the surrounding communities.
“In the coming year, we will bring relief to the fishermen of Dieppe Bay with the introduction of modern equipment to provide ice for the various fishing enterprises. We understand the needs of the fishing community in Dieppe Bay and we will start by addressing this important need of our fisher folk” Prime Minister Drew stated.
The upgrades to the Fisher’s Cooperative Building forms part of the Ministry’s Asset Management Project which aims to rehabilitate dilapidated properties in efforts to boost productivity. .
