Employment remains a top priority for Honourable Daniel Cummings, the parliamentary representative for West Kingstown. Speaking during a recent episode of NDP Night Talk, Cummings lamented the longstanding neglect of the constituency and the growing concerns of unemployment—especially among young people.
“When you go through the constituency, the cry is unemployment, particularly among the youth,” he said.
According to Cummings, the New Democratic Party (NDP) is working on a program designed to create not just jobs, but meaningful and sustainable employment. A prime example, he noted, is the planned restoration of the Ottley Hall Marina.
“That project alone would create jobs across the board,” he stated, pointing to the marina’s potential to drive economic activity in the area.
Cummings explained that the initiative is not solely about repairing boats that pass through the Grenadines. “It’s also about servicing the yachting industry, which includes mega yachts,” he said. He stressed the need for additional infrastructure, such as a small hotel, to accommodate captains and crews who dock for repairs.
“If they’re coming to get their yachts repaired, they should have a place to stay while the work is being done,” he said. He also recalled a time when the area had a well-stocked supermarket, suggesting its revival would further enhance the marina’s appeal.
“The Ottley Hall Marina can provide not only opportunities for vessel maintenance, but also ancillary services like hotel management, running the supermarket, welding, and mechanical work,” Cummings explained.
He concluded by highlighting the natural appeal of the location. “There’s tremendous potential,” he said. “The valley is so beautiful—it’s time we used that to our advantage.”