AS government continues efforts in strengthening community partnerships, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Steven Jacobs and Minster within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn, engaged residents of Plaisance and surrounding communities to discuss the establishment of a community committee to see the continued development, effective management and programming of the ground.
During the engagement on Friday, Minister Jacobs, noted that the initiative is intended to improve collaboration between residents and government agencies while ensuring the ground remains an active space for sports, recreation and community development.
“We are not taking over anything. This is an extension of the partnership so that all the stakeholders can work together. We want to bring structure and ensure that when government invests in a community ground, it is fully utilised, that is the important thing.” Minister Jacobs said.

He explained that the committee will include representatives from the community and the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), allowing issues affecting the ground to be addressed more efficiently while encouraging residents to organise sporting activities, and community events.
“The important thing is that we work together. We don’t want ownership. We want a partnership. We are putting systems in place so that this facility continues to benefit future generations,” he stated.
Minister Jacobs noted that committee members will operate under clear guidance and provide regular reports on the condition and use of the facility.
Moreover, the minister noted this move would allow the ministry to respond quickly when maintenance or further improvements are needed.
He also urged residents to volunteer their time to mentor young people through sports and other positive activities which will benefit the community overall.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn, praised the transformation of the community ground through collaboration among the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Public Works and the NDC.
She said the upgraded facility now provides greater opportunities for sports, recreation and community programmes for residents of all ages.
“There is so much more that we can do here. This facility has tremendous potential, and together we can continue to improve it for the benefit of everyone in the community,” Minister Benn said.
The minister explained that while the NDC will continue to oversee the management of the ground, the new committee will strengthen coordination with government ministries and community groups to maximise the use of the facility.
Minister Benn also encouraged organisers to continue working through the NDC when seeking permission to host activities, ensuring the facility is managed transparently and responsibly.
The engagement forms part of the government’s ongoing commitment to upgrading community recreational facilities. [DPI]