UWP is sleeping in a time capsule: PM Skerrit

Prime Minister of Dominica Dr Roosvelt Skerrit stated that over the last 50 years, over 12 airport sites had been examined for the potential construction of Dominica's international airport. During the house of assembly address on Monday, PM Skerrit stated that the 12 sites included La Plaine, Douglas Bay, Cabrits, Pointe Round, Grand Savanne, Canefield, Warner, Melvin Hall, Crompton Point and Eden Estate. He stated various alignment aspects were also overseen in Wesley and other areas. Prime Minister stated that the airport studies were initiated due to the desire of starting material growth in Dominica's economy by enabling same-day connection to key global markets.

He made these remarks while replying to the question raised by the opposition regarding the need to construct an international airport.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister stated that the international airport would not only benefit the tourism sector but it would also shorten the transit time allowing the diaspora and residents to travel with ease. He stated this would also create a more business-friendly environment. PM Skerrit stated that the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) have been sleeping in a time capsule and thinks that no work or studies have been done in the last 20 years regarding the international airport.

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"As recent as 2017, the government commissioned a study conducted by an American firm Landrum & Browne, which advised that the Wesley site is the most suitable to construct an international airport," stated PM Skerrit.

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He stated that the opposition talks about the Halcrow Report, but it seems like they hardly read it carefully. Referring to the report's clauses, the prime minister stated that the report had mentioned that several studies, including the 2000 World Bank review, raised severe concerns on the planning and standing works in 1998, including the technical feasibility of the earthworks and adequacy of cost estimates. Quoting the Halcrow Report, Prime Minister stated, "We share these reservations and also conclude that the likely cost of the selected options would be way higher than what was quoted in the report." PM Skerrit stated that the DLP government went ahead with the suggestions of the Halcrow report, and the improvements were made to the Melvin Hall Airport, including facilities for night landing and extension of runaway.

"We have always maintained that the construction of an international airport for Dominica is ultimate for the long-run," stated the Dominican PM.