The facility, which was closed in June 2008, underwent major refurbishing valued in excess of $15.7 million. Repairs included the demolition of derelict buildings and the repair of other structures that had sustained damage during previous hurricanes.

Following the renovation, the facility has the capacity to accommodate over 21 horses up from eight. It is projected that more than 300 horses will pass through the facility.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Agriculture, Dr Christopher Tufton, said the new-look facility would support the expansion of a number of sub-sectors that fall under the ministry's portfolio.

Protected all relevant industries

He said a quarantine station was very important to the development of any country because it protected all relevant industries and people from the possible transfer of disease.

Commenting on the possibility of relocating the facility from its present site due to the ravages of storms and hurricanes, Minister Tufton said:

"We considered the matter very carefully. We felt that there was an added advantage.

It was worth taking the risk because of the location's vicinity to the airport and because of the buffer zone between the facility and the movement of animals into other parts of the island."

The improved facility is the largest of its kind in the region and is used to house all animals entering the island during the mandatory 14-day quarantine period.

- Contributed