‘Returning Nationals of SVG’ contributes EC$35,000 more to Argyle international airport

The Argyle International Airport’s contributory fund grew by EC$35,000 yesterday, thanks to the group, the ‘returning Nationals of St Vincent and the Grenadines’.

The group, which is made up of returning nationals, held a dinner and dance in December and a barbecue in April to raise the money.{{more}}

Monday’s donation has brought the total amount of money donated by this group to the airport’s contributory fund to approximately EC$260,000.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony, which was held at Government House under the auspices of Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne, chairperson of the group Nyoka Clouden said that the group was glad to once again contribute to the building of the airport.

She said that the group has been following the airport’s construction and in their opinion, by making these donations, they are helping to fund a project that is aimed at bettering the country.

Clouden added that on completion, the airport will bring benefits to a number of persons and organizations, including hospitality workers and farmers.

Accepting the money, chief executive officer (CEO) of the International Airport Development Company (IADC) Dr Rudy Mattias described the donation as a substantial amount.

He stressed that the group’s dedication and commitment to the project “is great,” while he also noted that he knows that apart from the money raised by the events, the group’s members also contribute personal funds.

Dr Matthias also noted that some of the money will be used to construct a Carib village in the vicinity of the airport. This village, he says, will be used as a tourist attraction.

The cheque was handed over by group members Claudette Reese and Cycil Clarke.

Sir Frederick thanked the group for their continued donations, and he revealed that the largest sums of money given by independent donors have come from this group.