Ministers visit Bequia to assess housing issues

Residents of Bequia who are still affected by housing challenges resulting from the passage of Hurricane Beryl on July 1, 2024 received a visit from two government ministers on Thursday, March 12,2026.

Minister of Housing Andrew John, and Minister of Grenadines Affairs, Terrance Ollivierre, along with key personnel from their ministries, travelled to the island to assess conditions and explore solutions to the various problems being faced by residents regarding land and housing.

The group focused on the post-Beryl housing needs, and included concerns related to informal settlements as some residents continue to seek safe and secure accommodation and better living conditions.

During the tour of affected areas the ministers met with residents and community representatives to get first hand accounts of the challenges they have been facing since the passage of the hurricane.

Minister John said the government is committed to helping residents rebuild their lives and ensuring that persons displaced by the hurricane are able to access adequate housing. He noted that the visit formed part of ongoing efforts to better understand the situation on the ground so that practical assistance can be provided.

A key initiative discussed during the visit is the establishment of a Ministry of Housing storeroom on the island, which would allow building materials and supplies to be stored. Officials say this would make it easier and faster to respond to housing needs in Bequia and other parts of the Grenadines, particularly in the aftermath of disasters.

Minister Ollivierre emphasised the importance of working closely with residents to address both immediate and long-term housing concerns. He said the government remains committed to finding solutions that will assist families and also address squatting in some areas with the aim of allowing some people to own the lands which they have been occupying.

The ministers indicated that the information gathered during the visit will help guide future housing interventions as authorities continue efforts to support residents affected by Hurricane Beryl. The Government has been implementing a range of initiatives across St Vincent and the Grenadines aimed at rebuilding homes and strengthening housing resilience in communities impacted by the storm. (API)