The Government of Dominica is taking measures to ensure that in the event of flooding, lives and property are protected in the community of Siboulie, Pointe Mitchel.
In December 2013, lives were in jeopardy and homes destroyed when heavy rains caused flooding in that area. The Siboulie Ravine overflowed causing severe flood damage in that community.
The Government of Dominica responded by rebuilding homes and replacing household effects, educational material and providing temporary shelter to those whose homes were affected.
Now Government is going one step further to ensure safety in this community.
The ravine is being dredged to allow a steady flow of water in case of flooding.
According to Member of Parliament for the Soufriere Constituency, Hon. Ian Pinard, “Government received US $500,000 from the Mexican Government for the Fortune and Union Estate areas.”
The first phase, which is ongoing, is contracted to a young resident of Newtown and focuses on the areas directly affecting homes.
The project started early April and is expected to be complete in two months. Seven men are currently employed and another seven will be added before the project is complete.
“I’m making some [money] and [the project] is still a beneficial thing for the area. I live not too far from here, just along the other wall which was done in 1980 and the ravine didn’t do much lower down because of that wall. If we had already had one here, things would be ok but the ravine dug about 8ft,” said project employee and resident, Aaron Charles.
This project is costing Government in the region of $600,000. The Parliamentary Representative is pleased that the task is undertaken by men in the community.
He said, “When you have persons from the community involved in a project, they will take their time to make sure it is done properly because they live right here in the community. That’s what the Government continues to do with projects such as these.
He adds that this project will not only enhance safety in the area but will also beautify Siboulie.
And of course…residents are grateful.
“I want to say thanks to Mr. Pinard. He hasn’t been six months in office and he has already started his first project. He is keeping his promises. We knew Mr. Pinard and the Labour Party would do this for us,” Aaron Charles expressed.
THIS IS WHAT YOU ALL ARE SUPPOSE TO DO,AND NOT DO PEOPLE FAVORS,THE ravine is the government responsibility.
600 000 dollars and the project stop already…those guys working and cant get paid…labor ka tavey evec yo pa ka paye…look story…so the wall is only up to a certain distance and where the most damage was done they are not building… so that means the lady house is at risk once again…
so we are just voting for a wall hear and a road there?but no economical development?Cost of living high,no production ,money not flowing people broke before they receive there salaries ,country dead like what, we vote for the communities to have sustainable jobs,identify the resources in the various communities and how we can use them to make money,give the young people work to do and make life more meaningful.
hmm interesting (He adds that this project will not only enhance safety in the area but will also beautify Siboulie.) what about the rest of pointe michel like the playing field all bush all over the place the roads round the playing field done ready to mash up with pot holes and broken roads I sure ian seeing that he driving up and down every morning he blind man
Hope no one is looking for a kickback and the $600,000.00 is well spent.
Wow! What about creating a sustainable industry in Pointe Michel so these young men dont have to beg when this 3 month project is over.