Dept of Constituency Empowerment collaborates with Rural Fisherfolk Cooperative

BASSETERRE, St Kitts, 9th August 2023 – The Department of Constituency Empowerment (DCE) sat with the Capisterre Fishermen Marketing and Supplies Cooperative Society on Thursday, 3rd August, 2023. The Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister responsible for the DCE and the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas, area representative, were also in attendance to determine how the government can support the Cooperative.

The meeting focused primarily on the rehabilitation of the building that houses the Cooperative. However, the discussion entailed a comprehensive view of the revival of ‘Dieppe Bay Town’, with a focus on the retention of tradition and cultural revitalization, as fishing is a part of the heritage.

The Government of St Kitts and Nevis, in its journey to becoming a Sustainable Island State, is making a commitment to acquire a proper facility for the fisherfolk to ply their trade in developing resources to sustain livelihoods for the future.

Having done several inspections, the Public Works Department has determined that the current structure is not sound enough and advised that the building be demolished.

Dieppe Bay, one of the designated fishing communities, is earmarked to promote the Federation’s Blue economy, which is expected to stimulate economic activity and attract resources to bolster economic wealth at the community level.

The vision, as described by the Director of the DCE, Colincia Levine, is to obtain a new facility, which in turn, involves a wide scope of opportunities not only for the fisherfolk but also for technological advancements that can ultimately benefit and accommodate youth who are interested in careers in the blue economy.

Meanwhile, Minister Clarke encouraged the fisherfolk to apply for grants citing that the environment and the involvement of women at the forefront, should be the focus.

The ultimate goal is the redevelopment of Dieppe Bay as a town that will have ripple effects in enhancing the surrounding communities.

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