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by Richmond Felix
September 1, 1997 -
The fisheries industry, one of the oldest in St. Lucia, has once again received a shot in
the arm. The Castries Fisheries Development Centre was handed over to the government of
St. Lucia by the government of Japan.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Cass Elias says, that fishing has a major
part to play in sustaining St. Lucia's economy. The modernization of the industry is
therefore necessary in that regard. Japan has been cooperating with St. Lucia in the
fisheries developing program since 1988.This has seen the realization of the Castries Fish
Market Complex, the Dennery Fish Landing Base and other landing facilities around the
island.Contributions have also been made in the form of fishing boats and fishing gear.
The Castries Fisheries Development Centre is the third phase of a Japanese assistance
program.
Construction commenced in July 1995.Japanese Ambassador to St. Lucia, His Excellency
Yasuhiko Tanaka, in handing over the Castries Fisheries Development Centre, expressed hope
that the centre will further contribute to economic development and viability of St.
Lucia's Fishing Industry.
A feasibility study for the construction of a fisheries complex in Vieux Fort has just
been concluded. Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Dr. Kenny Anthony says that his
administration looks forward towards its inclusion in the vitalization of St. Lucia's
fishing industry.
Dr. Anthony said that Government is presently considering establishing a Fisheries
Management and Development Unit for the strategic development of fishing in St. Lucia. He
added, that in order to encourage the further growth of the fishing industry, Government
plans to implement various incentives. It is Government's intention to enhance the special
credit portfolio of the St. Lucia Development Bank, to finance the completion of the
fishing vessel improvement program. It is also being proposed that duties be removed on
material used for boat manufacturing.
The Castries Fisheries Development Centre is located next to the Castries Fisheries
Complex, and will house the administrative sector of the Fisheries Department. The
Fisheries Centre and related facilities and equipment were provided with a grant of US$4.5
million.
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