—as May target set for completion of Berbice Stadium
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
MINISTER of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., on Sunday visited the construction site of the new Berbice Stadium at Palmyra, where he emphasised that the facility must be completed by the end of May.
During the site inspection, Ramson made it clear to contractors and engineers that the deadline remains firm and warned that liquidated damages will apply if the project extends beyond the agreed completion date.
He urged those responsible for the various components of the project to intensify their efforts and instructed contractors to “put in the hours now,” stressing that with an unpredictable rainy season approaching, the window to complete several external works is narrowing.
According to Ramson, being present on the ground is critical to ensuring decisions are made quickly so that work can continue without delays.
“It is important to be on the ground to make decisions with resolutions to advance the contracts and ensure that the timelines are met,” he explained.
The minister also noted that some aspects of the project have faced logistical challenges, due to the international sourcing of materials. Several key components installed at the facility were imported from multiple countries, many of which have experienced shipping disruptions.
“Prior to this, a lot of the components you see installed here came from many countries, and many of those countries had shipping issues,” Ramson said.
He said that although major structural elements are already in place, certain finishing materials only recently arrived.
“Even though the stand is assembled and the roof is being installed, the sealant only arrived yesterday. And even though the seats had arrived, the sealant is very important,” he noted.
Describing the development as part of a larger national vision, Ramson said the facility represents the invisible hands of investment that are transforming communities across the country.
He added that the Berbice Stadium will serve as a multi-purpose facility, capable of hosting sporting and community and culture events, and forms part of a wider effort to expand sports infrastructure in the region.
“This is transformational investment happening here,” the minister said.
Once completed, the stadium is expected to significantly boost sporting opportunities and events in Berbice while providing a modern venue for athletes and residents alike.
