OUTGOING US ambassador to Jamaica Sue Cobb yesterday culminated her four-year stay in Jamaica by handing over money to underwrite the infrastructural development of the Pedro Cays project being undertaken by the Jamaica Defence Force.

The project, estimated to cost US$1.35 million, is expected to strengthen the capacity of the Jamaican military in the interdiction of illegal activities on the island. Work is scheduled to start in March.

Ending on a happy note Outgoing US Ambassador to Jamaica Sue Cobb and her husband, Charles (right), share in a happy moment with Foreign Minister K D Knight, at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston on Sunday night. The occasion was a farewell reception for the outgoing ambassador, who spent her last day in office yesterday. (Photo: Karl McLarty)

"This project has been on the drawing boards for sometime but getting the funds has not been easy," Ambassador Cobb said yesterday at a brief ceremony at the US Embassy Office of Public Affairs on Oxford Road in Kingston.

The US government-funded project is the result of more than eight years of planning and collaboration between the Jamaica, led by Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin, and the US Southern Command.

Pedro Cays, which lies 80 nautical miles south of Jamaica, is said to be used for illegal activities, including the transshipment of narcotics.

"The area has historically been a key locale for illegal activities.It is a critical area requiring support of maritime law enforcement to protect Jamaica's borders and.Jamaica's natural resources," Cobb said.

The project includes the construction of a 400-foot pier and deck and a fuel facility consisting of a concrete pad for a 3,000-gallon plastic water tank, a 1,000-gallon mild steel diesel tank and a 500-gallon mild steel unleaded petrol tank. Installation of supply lines and piping for fuel will run to the end of the pier.

When the project is completed, the JDF Air Wing and the Coast Guards will be able to refuel and service its aircraft and vessels without having to return to the mainland while in pursuit of boats or planes suspected of engaging in illegal activities.

Rear Admiral Lewin, who accepted the money on behalf of the JDF, said it was a fitting end to Ambassador Cobb's relentless efforts in securing the funds.

"Ambassador Cobb fought several levels in the food chain in the US.[to obtain funding].and therefore it is a fitting culmination on your last day," Rear Admiral Lewin said.

The project, he said, should be seen as a major boost to Jamaica's infrastructural development and in expanding its capability and effectiveness.

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