Grandbay/Dubique residents to benefit from over $800,000 multipurpose facility

Residents of Grand Bay and Dubique will now benefit from a $870,256.62 multipurpose facility that was funded by the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF)-10 project.

Speaking at the commissioning of the facility this week, Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, Gretta Roberts, said the facility will have a positive impact since it will be a benefit to everyone in the community

“The government of Dominica has, over the years, focused on providing resources to facilitate the delivery of services,  recognising that in order to improve service delivery, the quality of our infrastructure and a safe, conducive working environment is of utmost importance,” she said. “This multipurpose facility certainly will have a positive impact since it will be of benefit to everyone  in the community.”

According to her, the facility is expected to provide improved access to services, recreational activities, and social interaction.

“The center will also provide space for children who will be making full use of the library,” she said. “The village council waited patiently and in earnest to resume the use of this facility. “

Roberts stated further that the cultural enthusiasts and the groups will also have access to a suitable place to host the activities, while allowing community groups and families to gather together.

Parliamentary Representative of the Grand Bay Constituency, Dr. Vince Henderson, called on residents to positively utilize the facility.

“Let us integrate this building as part of the community, as I know you have in the past, and now you have a greater facility. Let us utilize it even more,” he encouraged.

He added, “Let’s make it open, but let’s make it active. Let’s put it to use.  Whether it’s for adult education, for continuing learning, or anything that we can do,  let us seek to do that. And if we can incorporate more services there, let’s do that.”

Meanwhile, Project Manager of the BNTF,  Matthew Carrette, said the project started on September 9, 2024, and involved the complete renovation of this two-storey multi-purpose structure.

“So on the ground floor, we have an expanded village council office.  We have an electrical room, washroom. There’s a full kitchen, conference room, and store room,” he revealed. “ The other part houses the library office for the district development officer, and there’s hurricane shelter for the physically challenged persons.”

He continued, “And one thing we always do in our projects is to ensure that there’s access for persons with disabilities. So we note that when you enter the washroom, there are some large bathrooms that can accommodate  wheelchair access.”

Carrette went on to add that there is an events hall on the upper floor with a stage, backstage, store room, toilet, and shower facilities.

“This event hall will also function as a hurricane shelter,” he said.

Carrette also noted that there will be private ramps for easy access, an emergency water supply, and solar external lights.