Workers CIDA ready

Vincentian construction workers in various fields are now better equipped to do their work, while their skills are now also recognized throughout the Caribbean.

The upgrading, which took place over a three year period, was funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), the Caribbean Programme for Economic Competitiveness (CPEC) and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Construction Sector Sub-Project. {{more}}The Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing implemented the programme that helped 270 workers become more versed in their various fields which included setting out, plumbing, carpentry and construction.

During the closing ceremony of the project held on November 22 at Sunset Shores, three artisans were recognised for going the extra mile in becoming certified. The lone female Marcia Edwards, Frederick Browne of Browne’s Construction and Design, and David Daniel received special recognition. Implementation consultant Camille Crichton, one of two persons who was instrumental in getting the project up and running, said that the three were rewarded because of their attitude and outlook. Edwards attended every session.

The other person who gave tremendous input to the project was the project’s co-ordinator Arthur Guy.

Melvin Edwards, regional project manager of CPEC said that the persons who attended the workshops can now work in countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and other countries when the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) comes into full swing.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, President of the Construction Association Michael Gibson said the project sought to improve the work of the persons in the sector. He added that the workshops were aimed at giving persons in the industry the certification to compete in the global economy and the training would help with cost overruns and shabbiness.

The construction project was also implemented to assist the Government in putting the building code in place. Minister of Education Mike Browne also made remarks at the closing ceremony.