FRC Presses ahead with Redeveloping Mount Pleasant
Castries, Saint Lucia, March 25, 2021; The Msgr. Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC) is observing the anniversary of the March 25, 2018 fire at its Mount Pleasant premises with the announcement of its new initiatives on the redevelopment of the building and site. On the third anniversary of this tragic event, the FRC shares plans for the redevelopment of the property, as it continues to honour Mount Pleasant as a significant and sacred space, but more importantly, as its home.
Earlier this year the Mount Pleasant Redevelopment Advisory Committee was established as part a number of strategic initiatives for the growth of the organization. This committee will advise and assist the FRC in the redevelopment of its property at Mount Pleasant as a national heritage museum and the central location of its administrative and programme operations. The committee comprises an esteemed group of Saint Lucian nationals and professionals across the globe, spanning Canada, Barbados, the USA, and Paris among other locations, with expertise and competencies in global leadership, research, international networking and resource mobilization.
The organization has also commenced a more strategic approach to identifying grant funding and pursing applications for the redevelopment of Mount Pleasant. The FRC has also earmarked further fundraising initiatives with key various partners and stakeholder groups which will be launched this calendar year.
On March 25, 2018, St. Lucia suffered a tremendous loss when the headquarters of the institution charged with safeguarding the country’s intangible cultural heritage was completely destroyed by fire.
FRC Executive Director Louise Victor said “Despite the challenges and setbacks which inevitably came as a result of the fire, the FRC has never lost sight of its mission to redevelop its headquarters. The COVID 19 pandemic has imposed restriction on our ability to hold face-to face events, but presented opportunities to rethink some of our initial approaches and in the coming months the public can expect to be heavily engaged as part of this process.”
“We are grateful to corporate entities and partners who have pledged their support thus far towards the redevelopment of Mount Pleasant, and the collective efforts of other stakeholders and parties.” Victor added
As the institution works steadily to rebuild and restore the decades of research on the country’s history and culture which was lost, FRC membership extends deep gratitude for the unwavering support of all citizens, stakeholders and allies.
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