News

Contractor Roy Layne of R&K Construction said repairs at the Fisheries Division Headquarters at the Kingstown Fish Market are on schedule.

“When we entered the building, the ceilings were badly damaged from water; there was rust, mould, and extensive deterioration. We removed all of the damaged materials and are now rebuilding the facility from the inside out,” Layne explained.

He noted that the rehabilitation includes the complete replacement of lighting fixtures, the installation of additional electrical outlets, an upgraded 110-volt power supply, modern electrical conduit systems, repainting of the entire interior, and improvements to the office layout. Layne, who worked on the original construction of portions of the building more than three decades ago, said he is proud to be involved in restoring the facility.

“I worked on this building after finishing school over 30 years ago. It is very rewarding to return now and help transform it into what will essentially be a new building,” he said.
Regarding worker safety, Layne confirmed that mould remediation is part of the contract and that new ceiling installations will only proceed after the building has been professionally treated and certified safe.

The Honourable Conroy Huggins, Minister of Fisheries, said the government remains committed to completing the project on schedule, with contractors prepared to extend working hours if necessary to meet the anticipated completion date. Once completed, the refurbished headquarters will accommodate the Minister’s Office, the Permanent Secretary’s Office, the Chief Fisheries Officer, administrative personnel, technical officers, and data management staff.

These improvements will provide a modern and efficient workspace to support the continued development of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ fisheries sector.

SOURCE: Agency For Public Information (API)