Playing fields in Saint Lucia earmarked for major upgrade
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Playing fields in Saint Lucia earmarked for major upgrade |
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Contact: Shannon Lebourne
Thursday, February 10, 2011 – The Ministry of Social Transformation, Youth and Sports has earmarked a number of community playing fields around the island to undergo major enhancements.
So far the Ministry has upgraded a number of fields including the SAB playing facility under the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF).
Minister Responsible for Youth and Sports Honourable Lenard “Spider” Montoute, says the vision is to upgrade all community playing fields to a standard similar to the Sab Playing Facility—the former Vigie Playing Field.
“We are about to give attention to playing fields in Soufriere, Dennery and Anse La Raye, facilities affected by Hurricane Tomas which flooded and silted the playing surfaces. Firstly, we have to do some restoration work, then we will upgrade these facilities to a very high standard that is on par with what exists at Mindoo Phillip Park, the SAB playing Facility and Gros Islet.”
The Ministry of Social Transformation, Youth and Sports is hoping that by upgrading the community playing fields, young children will engage in various sporting disciplines instead of crime and violence.
Minister Montoute says the management of the upgraded facilities is a critical component of government’s plans.
“We have recognised that is one thing to upgrade sporting facilities but maintenance is also an important factor so this is extremely critical, hence we will work with community sporting organisations and development groups to ensure that the upgraded facilities are properly managed and maintained.”
The upgrade of various facilities will include the installation of lighting to allow for extended playing hours.
Government is optimistic that the upgrading of community playing fields will lend to the rekindling of sporting excellence in Saint Lucia. |
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