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Beyond the rehabilitation of the Fisheries Division Headquarters, Hon. Conroy Huggins, Minister of Fisheries, Marine and Land Conservation and Climate Resilience, outlined several major fisheries infrastructure projects currently being implemented across the country.

At the Kingstown Fish Market, work is progressing on a Japanese-funded project valued at more than EC$2 million to replace critical fish market equipment. The upgraded systems are being manufactured in Japan before shipment to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, with installation expected during the first quarter of 2027. Minister Huggins praised the longstanding partnership between Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and the Government of Japan, noting that Japanese support has significantly contributed to fisheries infrastructure development for more than four decades.

At the Chateaubelair Fisheries Centre, a comprehensive rehabilitation project valued at more than EC$2 million is underway under the Volcanic Eruption Emergency Project (VEEP). The project includes the renovation of the entire facility, together with the installation of a new ice-making machine and refrigerated fish storage. Originally scheduled as a one-year project, the contractor has indicated that the works can be completed within approximately six months, with completion expected before the end of 2026.

Meanwhile, refurbishment works are progressing at the Port Elizabeth Fisheries Centre in Bequia under a project valued at approximately €600,000 (about EC$1.8 million). The European Union is funding this project with implementation by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The rehabilitation includes major structural improvements to the facility and is expected to be completed over two years.

The Minister also announced plans to rehabilitate the Paget Farm Fisheries Centre in Bequia. The proposed project includes sea defense works and reconstruction of the jetty, with consultancy activities currently underway. Additional restoration projects are planned for the Calliaqua Fisheries Centre, where a new solar energy system has already been installed as part of the government’s climate resilience programme. Similar renewable energy initiatives are expected to be extended to other fisheries facilities, including those at Barrouallie and Chateaubelair.

Minister Huggins also confirmed that rehabilitation works are being planned for fisheries facilities at Owia, Canouan, and Union Island. Plans are underway for a fish-processing shed in Mayreau to serve fishers and supply the local tourism industry.

SOURCE: Agency For Public Information (API)