Tourism minister says Soufriere Foundation's latest upgrades will go a long way
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Contact: Shannon Lebourne
Friday, November 27, 2009 – Tourism Minister Senator the Honourable Allan Chastanet, has commended the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation (SRDF), for upgrading the experience at the Sulphur Springs Park, which is home to the Caribbean's only drive- in volcano.
Minister Chastanet was present for the official open a new vending village and black- water pool at the Sulphur Springs last week.
He says the project which was funded entirely by the SRDF, will truly enhance Saint Lucia's tourism product, thus ensuring that Soufriere residents benefit more from tourism.
“Soufriere has been sleeping, but to my mind, Soufriere has the opportunity to deliver fifty percent of the total gross domestic product of Saint Lucia,” the tourism minister said.
As part of the upgrades to the Sulphur Springs Park, all vendors have been provided with uniforms, and will undergo training in the area of customer service.
Director of the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation, Mr. Jimmy Haynes, says it is important that the people of Soufriere take ownership for the product in order for them to maximise its benefits.
“It is our responsibility to turn out a fantastic product to the visitors to our shores. One way of doing so, is to ensure that there are rules and regulations that everyone who operates within the Sulphur Springs Park must comply with. We will not just pull the regulations from the sky. What we will do, is to consult with all stakeholders to develop those guidelines; thereafter, we must all adhere to them,” Mr. Haynes said.
To commemorate the official opening of the new vending village and black-water pool, the tourism minister also unveiled a plaque situated at the entrance of the Sulphur Springs.
The Soufriere Regional Development Foundation says it will continue to upgrade the experience at the Sulphur Springs, while ensuring that the natural beauty is not adversely affected. |
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