Airport Controversy!

[gallery]Today, Wednesday August 13, 2008 marked the commencement of construction of the Argyle International Airport.  This the largest capital project ever undertaken in the history of this country.  It should cost something between $500 million and $1 billion.  This is, of course dependent on whose estimate is correct.

According to the Chairman of the International Airport Development Company, Dr Rudy Matthias, the project should cost about $589 million.  And, as the finances are currently configured, the government can more than afford this.  However, the figure of $589 million is being disputed by the Opposition.  They have employed an engineering firm to prepare an estimate.  According to the Opposition, the airport is estimated to cost in excess of $1 billion.  Furthermore they contend that there are several shortcomings regarding the way the airport is being financed.  They argue that the country would end up in a serious debt crisis as a result of the approach being taken by government in the construction of this airport.

Apart from the disagreements over the true cost of the airport, there are several other factors that have sparked controversy concerning this project.  Is the airport necessary? Is it feasible? What about the environmental impact? Could other approaches be taken to ensure efficacious air access to SVG?  Is the government going ahead for the right reasons?  Is it just a massive ploy to win another general elections? The questions are endless.

Irrespective of one’s position on the issues, the airport has started construction.  The government is adamant in its resolve to have the project completed despite the concerns raised.  Both dtractors and supporters must now wait and see the outcome.  Have Vincentians bitten off more than they could chew? Time will tell.