In recognition of ALBA's contribution to this development, the Grand Riviere Bridge will be renamed the ALBA Bridge.
On Monday, March 03, 2014, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, Her Excellency Leiff Escalona, Venezuela’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia and other officials, joined Hon. Shawn Edward and the people of Dennery North, for a sod turning ceremony signalling the commencement of work on the Grand Riviere bridge.
In his remarks, Prime Minster Anthony conveyed the gratitude of the Government and People of Saint Lucia to Ambassador Escalona, for ALBA’s grant to construct three bridges in Saint Lucia and also spoke to the significance of the site of the Grande Riviere Bridge.
“I want you to convey to the people of Venezuela and all the nations who form ALBA, the thanks of the Government and people of Saint Lucia, for the gift of this grant to finance the construction of these three bridges. I want to emphasize that ALBA has made these funds available without any conditions. They have asked nothing of the Government of Saint Lucia. They did not even ask that the technicians, the steel and cement come from their countries. They came to our assistance without asking for anything in return.”
According to the Prime Minister, the construction zone of the Grande Riviere Bridge is sacred to the people of the Mabouya Valley and Saint Lucia, because of its history.
“This area has been the focal point of unrest especially by the farmers because of what happened in the banana industry several years ago. Today, I remember Randy and Julius because they lost their lives here. That is why, when this bridge is being reconstructed, it has to be understood that the memory of those who lost their lives must always remain in our minds and that memory must remain sacred. The construction activity therefore, must pay respect to this kiosk that is erected in honour of the two who lost their lives here.”
In recognition of the contribution of ALBA, Prime Minister Anthony declared, that when completed, this bridge will be known as the ALBA Bridge.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure, Transport and Port Services, Hon Philip J. Pierre outlined the processes leading to the award of the contract and explained the specifications of the new bridge.
The Minister also announced plans to address the Thomazo Bridge.