Despite having started construction well over five years ago, the new facility was greatly affected by financial and other factors. The funds to build the complex, which will also accommodate a unit from the Customs Department, were made possible after negotiations between then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Timothy Harris and representatives from the Mexican government.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Monday, 14th November, 2011, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis Dr. Denzil Douglas said the financing of the construction of the new police station bears testimony to the strong Government-to-Government linkages that exist between the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of Mexico.
Douglas said it reflects his Government’s efficiency at ensuring that this country’s law enforcement leadership has the calibre of manpower, the type of equipment, the organizational arrangements, and the physical infrastructure that they need to combat crime and criminals.
He indicated that the opening is the fulfilment of a clear and sincere pledge made to the people of Dieppe Bay – and the people of this country – by his Government.
He said that through the relationship developed over the years both St. Kitts & Nevis and Mexico have developed a heightened awareness of the priorities, the potential, and the best way forward for each other’s nations.
The ribbon was cut by Ms. Estella Hutchinson, Dieppe Bay resident and mother of Assistant Police Commissioner Ian Queeley.
The ceremony was chaired by Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Joseph Richardson; Force Chaplain, Pastor Leroy Benjamin gave the invocation; Commissioner of Police, Mr. C.G. Walwyn gave the Opening and Welcome remarks; Mexico Ambassador to St. Kitts and Nevis, His Excellency Gerardo Lozano delivered remarks and the Vote of thanks was given by Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ian Queeley.
A Presentation was made by the pupils of the Dieppe Bay Primary School, who turned out in their numbers with their principal and teachers.