GOVERNMENT SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH CDF TO DEVELOP CHAMPAGNE BEACH FACILITY

On October 11 2023, the Government of Dominica through the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security has signed a grant agreement with the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF), to provide five hundred and fifty eight thousand US Dollars for the development of the Champagne Beach Facility. 

Chief Executive Officer of the CDF, Mr. Rodinold Soomer says they are pleased to support this project that will improve the champagne beach facility in Dominica.

“The agreement that we are signing today, for an amount in grant to the government of Dominica of five hundred and fifty eight thousand us dollars which is approximately 1.5 million EC dollars for the upgrade of the Champagne Beach Facility,” he stated.

Mr. Soomer spoke to the reasons for the CDF’s investment in the tourism sector of OECS countries.

“The CDF has been asked by the member states to provide a number of support in sectoral and thematic areas. While tourism is not necessarily mentioned as a sector of interest we have been doing a lot of work in tourism particularly in the OECS countries. Because as we seek to address these circumstances of disadvantage, it actually makes sense from a developmental perspective to flip the narrative and not just to consider disadvantages but to support the countries in the sectors in which they have comparative advantage. So this is the first fundamental reason why we’ve focused so much on tourism as a sector for intervention for support to the OECS including Dominica,” Mr. Soomer explained.

A number of the requirements for project funding were met by Dominica’s proposal to improve the champagne beach facility in addition to the potential of its natural attractions. 

“One of the thematic areas that we consider in accordance with our agreement is infrastructure development and another is business development and enterprise competitiveness. So this project allows us to pursue our objectives and respond to the mandate given to us by the community in these areas while providing support to Dominica in upgrading its tourism product. Another important dimension of this we believe is that when you have attractions that have world class potential, what you do when you upgrade these attractions you improve the competitiveness of the industry in question in this case tourism. And of particular relevance to the CSME you improve the attractiveness for interregional travel as well which is clearly in support of greater regional integration,” he added.

Minister of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre says Champagne Beach is symbolic of the innate potential of Dominica. He described the signing agreement ceremony as testament of the government’s commitment to develop Dominica. 

“Today marks a significant milestone in the journey of Dominica’s tourism and development. We have gathered here as a testament to our shared commitment to develop our beloved Dominica and its promise as a premier tourism destination in the Caribbean. I would like to say a special thanks to the CARICOM Development Fund for their support to Dominica’s quest to become the world’s first climate resilient country. Today’s signing are another stride in that direction. Champagne beach with its unique volcanic springs and marine life is not just a natural wonder it’s a symbol of Dominica’s untapped potential. While it has been a sought after location for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts from around the world, some further enhancements are required for champagne beach to truly shine,” Dr. McIntyre stated.

Dr.  McIntyre announced the developments that will form part of the rehabilitation project of Champagne Beach.

“The new Champagne Beach Facility will include a basement reception area, with vending units, changing rooms, lockers, spa services, and a lookout point. The lower level will be equipped with a restaurant and bar with washrooms, open space, dining, recreation and entertainment. This will not only enhance the visitor experience but will generate employment opportunities for the construction phase to the operation phase. It will open doors for our local entrepreneurs. Space is dedicated to art. Crafts and culinary delight will also allow our talented Dominicans to showcase their skills and contribute to our vibrant tourism ecosystem,” the Minister noted.

Dr. McIntyre noted that the development will be aligned with environmental protection principles.

“As we embark on this journey we pledge to adhere to the environmentally friendly practices to ensure the natural beauty remains untouched. Ladies and gentlemen, it fills me with immense pride to be part of this historic moment. This milestone serves as a promise to our future generations and we are committed to creating a Dominica that is resilient, prosperous and forward thinking,” Dr. McIntyre added.

CDF was established in 2008, to provide financial or technical assistance to disadvantaged countries, regions and sectors in the Caribbean Community.