Roadtown, Tortola - Government has made a “sound investment” in the lives of the children in the Territory specifically those in Fahie Hill and the surrounding areas.
The investment, a new playground facility, opened near to the historic Watch House in Fahie Hill, is the first in the area.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Friday, Minster for Education and Culture, Honourable Andrew Fahie, whose ministry is responsible for the implementation and management of the facility, said the playground represents a sound investment in the Territory’s youth. Hon. Fahie said “in today’s world that is tormented by the constant talk of the financial downturn, too often we see the youth of each nation and territory suffering from decreased investments in their lives”.
The Minister added that “governments are quick to pull out much needed money for youth investments like sports, recreation, entertainment and scholarship. This Government could be like other governments, but today is a good example, tested and proven, that whether it be financial markets, local or abroad, we intend to continue to invest responsibly in our youth.”
The minister encouraged the children of the area to use the facility during their Easter vacation saying that he envisioned the area to be “a place of refuge where children can once again be children.” He further encouraged the residents of the area to use the play facility as often and as responsibly as possible.
“Ensure that children are playing and playing respectfully with the equipment”, he cautioned. “Keep an eye out for vandals and in the interest of keeping the facility viable for future generations, you would be responsible citizens and report any acts unbecoming of the standard the community upholds”. He further asked ”the older members of the community to be mindful of the type of drinks and language you use around the children when they are at play,” and cautioned that there should be no smoking near the facility.
Other remarks were given by the Honourable Elvis Harrigan, the Fifth District representative where the playground facility was erected. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Culture, Mrs. Sheila Brathwaite chaired the ceremony.
The ceremony was also highlighted with musical selections and prayers from community members. Jeremy Vaterpool played the National Anthem, while Sylvia Freeman provided the invocation, Monique Chapdelaine sang and Hugo Vanterpool prayed over the playground. Young K’Andra Fahie also cut the ribbon to open the playground facility.
The opening of the playground facility is in keeping with Government’s aim to review and upgrade the Territory’s recreational areas and parks to accommodate entertainment and to strengthen the management of those areas.
British Virgin Islands News