Stephanie Elliott, Gleaner Writer
MAY PEN, Clarendon:
GERMAN AMBASSADOR Volker Schlegal toured Clarendon recently, on the invitation of Member of Parliament for Central Clarendon, Mike Henry, to view the proposed locations for the introduction of community economic projects in the parish.
The aim was to work out strategies to reinvest earnings from community economic projects into social upliftment endeavours that will benefit the entire parish.
Among the locations visited was the proposed site of the Herb McKenley Stadium. According to Mr. Henry, the progress of that stadium has been hampered by lack of funds to put in place a proper drainage network.
He said some $16 million is needed to complete the job.
At West Park Community Centre, which under the project will be called the May Pen West Production and Sports Development Centre, Mr. Henry said repairs were needed to the structure. He said the main purpose of the centre is to facilitate training in physical skills and administrative competence which will be tied to sports.
The touring party also visited the Effortville Community Centre, slated to be renamed the May Pen East Production Centre when the project is fully undertaken. Mr. Henry explained that the grounds will have perimeter fencing, and seating capacity for 3,000 persons, bringing it up to Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) standards. The centre will also be the home base for the Humble Lions Football Club.
PLANS FOR RECORDING STUDIO
Plans are also in place to have the facility used as a recording studio, and the teaching of the arts, including dance, drama and art. Courses will be offered in the management in the creative industry.
Ambassador Schlegal described the exercise as "stocktaking", stating that he agreed to the tour to get his own impression about the communities in which the projects will be undertaken and to view the parish overall. He said the tour gave him the opportunity to assist in the development of ideas towards the venture. He said he would be making proposals to the German government and other institutions he believes can assist in the future.
