Black Sands Resort will make Central Leeward ‘mecca of tourism’ – Sir Louis

With ground having been broken for the construction of the Black Sands Resort, the member of parliament for Central Leeward believes that the completion of the resort will make his constituency the “mecca of tourism” in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Speaking at last Thursday’s ground breaking ceremony at Peter’s Hope, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sir Louis Straker expressed that this project, funded by Pace Developments Inc, along with the Government’s other plans for Central Leeward, will make it the centre of attention within the tourism sector.

“This is going to be the mecca of tourism!” he insisted.

“What this Government has done far surpasses anything any previous Government has done for Central Leeward.”

The Deputy Prime Minister also noted that this increase in tourism-related endeavours will bring about a lot of employment, which will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the local economy.

Not only would this project employ construction workers, labourers and hospitality staff, it would also provide employment for those involved in agriculture and fishing.

He also urged local farmers to ready themselves now to be able to provide the resort with the fresh fruits and vegetables it would require once it opens.

“It costs more to bring in these things. So, we want those who are involved in agriculture… You get an opportunity to get a piece of the pie. Fishermen, you have the same chance.”

Sir Louis disclosed that $1.5 million will be invested in the Barrouallie community to build a black fish processing plant, where there will be indoor drying of the black fish (flesh), and the deodorizing (removing the strong smell) of the black fish oil.

Additionally, he explained that within the next two weeks or so, EC$1 million will be spent on providing public bath/toilet facilities and a general upgrade for the Bottle and Glass community in Barrouallie.

“The community itself would know that we have their interest at heart, and this Government has been working in order to meet their needs… We want to provide them with the best facilities!”

Moreover, he said that the current administration will be moving to increase the minimum wage of daily paid workers,­ following a report from the National Wages Council.

“This is the third one that the Government is providing… Rest assured that by the end of the year, you are going to have increased wage, so that you can have a better standard of living!” (JSV)