Last Updated on March 17, 2023, 3:05 AM AST by Anthony Morris
The Minister of Environment, Climate Action and Constituency environment, Dr Joyelle Clarke, recently took to her social media to share that her ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Fisheries. The signing ceremony for the MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) was held on Thursday, March 16, 2023
The Minister of Agriculture, marine resources, et al. signed the MoU related to using the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park, also known as the Aquifer, as a venue to host the Ministry of Agriculture’s Annual Open Day. The permanent secretaries of both ministries were present at the ceremony.
As per the Minister of environment and climate action, the ministry is responsible for protecting the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding is a part of that responsibility. The Minister of Agriculture, Samal Duggins, announced that the 2023 Agriculture Open Day would be held from April 27-28. Meanwhile, the MOU is effective until April 30, 2023.
Permanent Secretaries in the Ministries of Agriculture and , Sharon Rattan and Miguel Fleming, were present at the venue of the signing ceremony at the Secretariat of the Minister responsible for Environment & Climate Action. Primarily, the MOU ensures that there is access to garbage receptacles. Additionally, the minister not allow waste, fertilisers, wastewater or sewage to leak into the Aquifer.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in Ministry of Environment, Sharon Rattan, noted that the area is critical to the welfare of St Kitts and Nevis. Therefore, the water source has to be protected. Primarily, the MOU ensures adequate arrangements for the garbage receptacles.
The minister of Environment and Climate Action asserted on the significance of the area, stating that her ministry is responsible for establishing the use of the venue, maintaining the integrity and protecting the biodiversity and water reserves at the park. Accordingly, any use, should be governed by a MOU which can outline what can and cannot be done in the Royal Basseterre Valley.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
