Dominica: The Prime Minister of Dominica, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit attended the Contract Signing for Construction of Colihaut River Defence Wall. The event was presided over by the Minister of Public Work, Public Utilities, et al, Fidel Grant.
He and his team have been responsible for the construction of the defense wall at the Colihaut River. The construction of the defense wall is a part of the government’s commitment to the welfare of the Colihaut Community
The work on the Colihaut river defense wall has been ongoing for several years. After the impact of Hurricane Maria in 2017, the government has constructed several sections of the wall. The Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit made this announcement during the contract signing.
The officials have shared that over the years, the work they have done in Zetman Shop was compromised eventually. The PM said that they took quick action to rectify the situation and started work in the Zetman Shop region.
He also acknowledged that other sections of the deefense wall need work done but they have prioritized the Zetman section as it starts from the top of the community and goes down. Once the work in this section is successfully completed, work will bee taken to other sections that need attention.
PM Skerrit highlighted that the construction of the sea defense walls is crucial for the coastline of the island nation. He acknowledged that the sea is coming more and more into the land which puts coastal communities at risk of damage to life and property.
Skerrit highlighted that this is a result of climate change, noting that presently, previously safer amounts of rain in Dominica can lead to the possibility of flooding. The country has had their fair share of climate change crises, over the last two decades.
Prime Minister Roosvelt Skerrit recalled the natural disasters of the years 2005, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2022 and 2024. In 2024, parts of the island nation were affected by the Hurricane Beryl.
He highlighted that they had to spend 2.5 Million Dollars towards resurfacing roadways in the Bayfront and other affected regions. The bayfront rehabilitation was crucial to accommodate the cruise ships as well as residents and citizens of Dominica.
He also highlighted the financial crisis that they faced from 2008 to 2013 and then during Covid 19 from 2020 to 2022. PM Skerrit highlighted that after and despite all the challenges, they are delighted to be present in the Colihaut Community to sign the contract for the construction.
The Prime Minister assured the community that his administration is dedicated to addressing the concerns of the people.