On Friday 11th October 2024, the Committee on Government Assurances (COGA), led by Chairperson Hon. Sylvanne Lemiel, conducted a site visit to Coëtivy Island as a follow-up on their assessment last year. Hon. Lemiel was accompanied by Vice-Chairperson Hon. Norbert Loizeau, Hon. Philip Monthy, Hon. Desheila Bastienne, and Hon. Richard Labrosse. In attendance, on behalf of the Food Security and Sustainable Development Committee (FSSD) was Hon. John Hoareau, and on behalf of the Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC) was Hon. Conrad Gabriel.
The purpose of the visit was to monitor the progress of various ongoing development initiatives and evaluate the advancements made. The Committee was also extended an invitation by the Islands Development Company Ltd. (IDC), to tour the facilities of Ile Platte and observe the development and completion of several projects. Leading the visit was Chief Executive Officer Mr. Glenny Savy, accompanied by Public Relations and Communications Manager Mr. Michael Govinden. The Committee observed significant advancements, particularly in the area of shrimp farming and its processing stages.
COGA expressed its satisfaction, noting that the developments exceeded expectations, with Committee Members acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the IDC in driving these initiatives forward. Mr. Savy highlighted some of the challenges faced by the agricultural production sector, such as the current reliance on Israeli expertise within this field. Due to this, and other notable setbacks, several projects have been put on hold, impacting the overall timeline for agricultural development. Mr. Savy emphasized that due the positive progress achieved in the research and trial phases, it is prudent to wait for widespread global stability and conflict resolution before resuming any forms of collaboration with Israeli experts.
The Committee Members reiterated their commitment to supporting the development of Coëtivy and Ile Platte, recognising the potential that these projects hold for the local economy. Optimism was shared that the momentum of progress may be once again regained, leading to sustained improvements in agricultural production. The visit concluded with a strong commitment from COGA to continue monitoring and advocate for the necessary support to ensure the successful implementation of these vital projects.
