The Government of the Virgin Islands addressed the public on Monday to speak about its latest achievement in the recovery of the territory from the devastations of natural disasters in recent times, namely Hurricanes Irma and Maria.
This came by way of the signing of a contract for the supply and installation of playground flooring and equipment for the Anegada Recreational Ground.
The project is valued at $65,763.98 and was awarded to Lawrence Wheatley Construction.
The contractor was given a 6-week time frame to complete the installations, following which an official opening ceremony will be conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
Joined by a team of government representatives, and industry officials, Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio Wheatley cheered the occasion as another necessary step in the recovery and development of the territory and a physical mark of the resilience of its people.
“Step by step, bit by bit, the people of the Virgin Islands continue to rebuild their homeland from the devastations caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. We have been doing it mostly on our own but with help from others as well. This speaks to the great strength, resourcefulness and determination of the Virgin Islands people and our propensity to take care of our own affairs,” he said.
Reflecting on the time it has taken to get this specific project done, the premier thanked the residents of Anegada for their patience and understanding throughout the entire process.
He admitted, “The repair and upgrade of the Anegada recreational grounds have been long awaited by the people of Anegada.”
“I want to thank you for your patience and understanding. I also want to thank all the persons who contributed to this day that we have here today. We must recognize all the hard work that has gone into this and all other projects”, he added.
Adding to the Premier’s statements, Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports Honourable Sharie de Castro shared similar sentiments.
The Minister noted that such facilities are imperative to the holistic development of the territory’s children.
She said, “I believe that the people of Anegada, especially the children will be very grateful for this coming to fruition. We understand that play has a significant role in development and we cannot take it for granted what recreational facilities and playground equipment…. what purpose or role they play in the development of our children.”