Alvair Limited has been awarded the contract for consultancy services for engineering design and construction management of water mains and civil works for the Farmer’s Reservoir, through the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA). Photo: Facebook

Mr Anthony S. McMaster, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of RDA said the contract signing is a special day, especially for farmers and members of the Paraquita Bay community, who will benefit significantly from this project. Photo: Facebook

Director of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department Mr Theodore E. James said the project brings the Virgin Islands one step closer to water and agriculture security. Photo: Facebook

Mr Barry Mohammed, Managing Director of Alvair Limited, said they are proud to contribute their expertise and resources to the project. Photo: Facebook

Mr Anthony S. McMaster, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of RDA, said the contract- in the value of two hundred and twenty-four thousand, six hundred and thirty-nine dollars and sixty cents- is specifically for the validation of the proposed reservoir size, and a detailed design of the water mains that will transport the water to the Paraquita Bay farm lands, in addition to the civil works.

The consultant will also be responsible for the management of implementation of the pipelines and related construction activities, ensuring all works are conducted according to the approved designs and specifications.

Special day for farmers- Mr Anthony S. McMaster

This project is being done in collaboration with several government agencies, namely the Premier's Office, the Ministry of Communications and Works, the Department of Agriculture, and the farming community.

“We join forces in the interest of bringing relief to the farming community within the Paraquita Bay area while at the same time better positioning the territory on its path to the attainment of food security,” Mr McMaster stated.

The contract signing, he said, is a special day, especially for farmers and members of the Paraquita Bay community, who will benefit significantly from this project.

“We know the farmers have been, for some time, crying out, and the Premier has now made it possible to provide a solution to the issues that they’ve been having,” Mr McMaster said.

One step closer to water & agriculture security- Mr Theodore E. James

Meanwhile, Director of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department Mr Theodore E. James said, “We are one step closer to water security, one step closer to agricultural security, one step closer to junk mitigation, irrigation flexibility, improved soil health, and health care for our animals. Without water, there can be no agriculture.”

Mr James thanked the government for taking this step towards ensuring farmers in Paraquita Bay are going to be equipped.

“At some point will also say to the farmers that the time will come where you too will also have to put in the time and energy to ensure that what you produce will also be healthy and suitable for our people in the Virgin Islands.”

Alviar Limited is proud to contribute expertise & resources

Mr Barry Mohammed, Managing Director of Alvair Limited, said, “Our companies are deeply committed to sustainable development, innovation, and meaningful partnerships, and this initiative embodies all three. We are proud to contribute our expertise and resources to aid in ensuring water security, supporting agricultural resilience…and empowering local communities.”

He thanked the government for the trust placed in his team, adding that they look forward to supporting this project with “integrity, excellence, and in full partnership with all stakeholders”.