THE new plantain/juice factory at Blenheim, Leguan,which will benefit scores of farmers on the island, may miss its April month-end opening deadline, but is still very much on stream. In fact, reports are that the project is halfway completed.Vice-chairman of the Leguan Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Mr. Inshaan Ayube, told this newspaper that the new factory is an initiative of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. He said that another one of its kind will also be constructed at Wakenaam, another island in the Essequibo River.

Ayube did not have at-hand information pertaining to the cost of the edifice, but noted that approximately 20 persons will be employed while farmers will have plantain as an alternative crop to produce.
He said Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali’s intention is to enhance the livelihoods of Leguan residents.