The membership of the St Lucia National Trust has voted a resounding no to the proposed Dolphin Park at Pigeon Island and any possible desecration of the Pointe Sable Protection Area that includes Maria Islands. Communications and Advocacy Officer at the National Trust, Karetta Crooks-Charles, says over 200 members came out to let their voices be heard on a number of environmental issues. Dolphin Discovery Inc – the company proposing the Dolphin Park at Pigeon Island. The welcome was anything but warm, as members made their disdain for having Dolphins in captivity clear. Crooks-Charles says the Trust definitely has its mandate from members.
Former Minister for Sustainable Development, Dr James Fletcher was in attendance and told representatives of Dolphin Discovery – that they would be better off taking their project elsewhere. In the end members of the Trust voted unanimously against the proposed Dolphin Park – was invited to address the gathering.
Meanwhile, the man who is spearheading the feasibility study for the proposed Dolphin Park, Ausbert D’Auvergne, defended the proposal and the need for a feasibility study. He noted that there are many parks and zoos all over the world where animals are kept in captivity and that serve as attractions to tourists. He says personally he has no issue with such parks.
Meanwhile, the membership of the National Trust also held discussions on the proposed Phase 2 of the DSH Pearl of the Caribbean Project. The presentation of Phase 2 of the DSH Pearl of the Caribbean project has been met with much criticism. Crooks Charles says members were also clear with their opposition to causeway linking Maria Minor and Major.