COGNIZANT of the fundamental role that land rights for the citizens of Saint Lucia play in stimulating investment and growth – the Department of Housing and Local Government has undertaken a land development project to benefit the residents of Piaye, Choiseul.
Particular focus will be directed to agriculture and infrastructure projects – with the National Sites and Services Programme [NSSP] geared to deliver service lots to citizens ensuring social economic stability, sustainable economic development and growth.
The Department’s Piaye Land Development Project under the umbrella of the NSSP made a total of 32 lots available; and is now in the process of regularizing tenures for existing occupants while the remaining lots were offered to interested persons for purchase.
Housing Minister Richard Frederick was influential in pushing the initiative, with the commitment to making land ownership a reality for the nation’s people.
According to a ministry source, the department recognizes land ownership as more than just a legal deed, stating that, it represents a profound part of the island’s holistic development, as a community and a nation.
On November 7 a community consultation activity was undertaken in Piaye. The discourse took on the form of a sit-down, with Department officials interacting with residents of the southern coastal community, and noted their concerns and challenges.
Residents were also sensitized with details of the various payment options available and the title deeds process.
“We, as a Housing Department, knowing this holds immense value and understanding the importance of how deeply it impacts the lives of people, once payments have been made will work expeditiously to issue title deeds,” stated a ministry official.
The Department adds that, it “will continue to support Saint Lucia and its citizens in building resilience by providing suitable lands at an affordable rate.”