​The Government of Mexico has awarded a grant of USD$5 million towards the implementation and commissioning of the Dennery Water Supply Redevelopment Project.

The purpose of the project is to provide the residents of Dennery with a reliable water supply.

Parliamentary Rep. for Dennery North, Hon. Shawn Edward, said the grant and the project could not have come at a better time.

“As you know, for decades we have [had to face] serious water challenges in our community, in terms of supply, access, and water quality. There are a number of communities that will go for months without a drop of water in their tap and it really is a major inconvenience. Families, individuals, and even schools have been affected,” he said.

The project encompasses water intake construction and raw water transmission, water treatment plant construction and commissioning, the installation of storage tanks for treated water, the installation of pumping facilities and network distribution upgrades.

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has been a key partner of the Mexican Government to oversee the operation of the project.

Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony thanked all parties involved for their assistance in the endeavour.

“It is indeed a pleasure for me to welcome you to this presentation ceremony to witness the grant contribution made by the Government of Mexico to the Government and people of Saint Lucia,” Dr. Anthony said. “The project will benefit in particular residents of various communities within Dennery, including La Caye, Grande Riviere, Mabouya Valley and Morne Panache. In many respects this ceremony is a significant milestone for Saint Lucia as well as for the Government of Mexico.”

The planned commencement of the project is for the third quarter for 2015, while construction will begin towards the end of the year.

The project is spearheaded by the Ministry of Sustainable Development with assistance from the Department of Planning and National Development in the Ministry of Finance.

The project is estimated to last for 18 months.