By Sue-Ann Wayow
MINISTER of Tourism, Culture and the Arts Randall Mitchell is expected to meet with the board of Asa Wright Centre which is now closed as a result of Covid-19.
Speaking during Parliament on Tuesday, Mitchell said he met with a board member since the announcement that the popular eco-tourist site will be closed indefinitely.
Mitchell was answering a question asked by Opposition Senator David Nakhid concerning the centre’s closure in the Senate on Tuesday.
Nakhid asked, “Having regard to Government’s thrust to develop tourism as one of its diversification pillars, can the Minister indicate whether the Government intends to intervene to avert the impending closure of one of the nation’s tourist attractions, the Asa Wright Centre?”
Mitchell responded that the centre, like many other tourism operators, was greatly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic but has kept its workers employed up until its recent closure.
He said, “I have had the opportunity to speak with a member of the board who have indicated that of paramount importance is the maintenance and security of the wildlife sanctuary they have promised to submit their proposed requirements to me next week. We will sit and discuss how we can secure, the estate, the premises as well as maintain the premises.”
Mitchell added that the centre was awaiting the re-opening of the borders and the resumption of travel.
