D’Abadie gets community centre

“The village is no longer responsible for raising the children and I want to challenge the D’Abadie Village Council to promote this,” he said at the commissioning of the refurbished community centre at Recreation Ground Road, D’Abadie on Thursday last.

“We are losing our interpersonal skills. Let us develop strong bonds for the future.” Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, Nyan Gadsby- Dolly, under whose ministry the community centre was refurbished, said, “For decades, D’Abadie has demonstrated its emphasis on education, communal ties, cultural identity and awareness and involvement in sports and other activities.” The community centre, she noted, was equipped with an auditorium with a stage built of teak, a teaching kitchen, an administrative office, a gym, a computer room and an advanced sound and lighting system.

“On this very stage, she said, “performances will take place to bring cultural awareness and pride to D’Abadie. The auditorium will house events and other celebrations.

Sporting clubs, youth organisations, women’s groups, men’s groups and senior citizens will all have a setting for interaction and growth.” As they celebrated the re-dedication, she said, “We look forward to greater accomplishments from you.” Lopinot/Bon Air West MP, Cherie-Ann Crichlow- Cockburn who was also present and who recalled being involved in the Five Rivers Community Council advised residents to make use of the centre.

“Use it as a meeting place. Let the young talent unfold here and let us get back to the days of being our brother’s keeper,” she said.

D’Abadie Community Council president, Conrad Steele, unveiled the plaque to officially commission the auditorium as “The Cecil James Auditorium” in honour of D’Abadie-based primary school teacher, music teacher and sporting coach.

The packed auditorium was entertained by the community-based parang group and proceedings ended with four outstanding community developers being honoured.

The community centre is the second to be opened in November by the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Arts.

The St Helena (Matelot) Community Centre was opened on November 22. Community centres soon to be commissioned include one in Plum Mitan and another in St Helena.