Debate Continues Over Special Sustainable Zone in Nevis
The recently introduced Special Sustainable Zone legislation continues to draw debate, with critics raising concerns about land acquisition, the rights of local citizens, and the wider impact on communities.
Speaking on the On Point programme, Hon Alexis Jeffers, Special Advisor to the Office of the Premier on Investment Matters, defended the Concerned Citizens Movement-led Nevis Island Administration (NIA), accusing the opposition Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) of resisting every major project advanced by the government.
“There have been results to show,” Jeffers said, pointing to the Newcastle Police Station as an example. “Back in the day, when that old dilapidated station was there with wires hanging out of the wall, leaking water and mould, nobody could be proud of that. Now we have one of the best police stations in the Caribbean, yet they opposed it.”
Jeffers listed other initiatives he said have faced resistance, including the Ritz-Carlton hotel development, the Oualie water taxi pier, the Mondo track, the pension scheme for non-established workers, the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park, and plans for airport and south coast development.
“They don’t come with anything positive,” he argued. “If we had backed down on the water taxi, we would not have had over a million passengers passing through. If we had backed down on the Mondo track, our children would still be running on grass. That facility has already delivered results, helping students compete at the highest level abroad.”
Jeffers insisted that the NIA remains committed to its development agenda despite opposition. “We’re going to continue to fight and continue to build this island as we have been mandated to do. The obstacles will come, but we will get through them.”
The Special Sustainable Zone legislation, which aims to attract investment and promote development, has been at the centre of recent political debate. Critics argue it risks prioritising investor interests over the rights and needs of Nevisians, while the government maintains it is essential to creating long-term opportunities for the island.
