The Progressive Labour Party has been making steady progress in our island’s infrastructure. From the early works of restoring the conditions of our roads, the installation of CCTV camera, and the investment into stabilising Tynes Bay Waste Management Facility, to name a few, the work is being done, progress is being made and we are steadily seeing results.

It is often said that governments demonstrate their priorities by where they put their money. This month we demonstrated our commitment to community development and youth empowerment through our recent investment in the Western Stars Sports Club and St John’s Field.

Years ago, the flooding, unlevel playing surface and lack of water catchment challenges at the field were brought to our attention and, while the resolution took far longer than any of us would have liked, we stayed focused on achieving a successful resolution.

This longstanding problem has affected the ability of these organisations to fully use their fields and impacted the performance of Western Stars cricketers and Dandy Town footballers. Worse still, it created a profound wound in the community.

We recognise the essential role that local sports clubs play in Bermuda, as well as the historical, cultural and social impact they have had on our society. That is why this project is so important to this community and to us, and we are proud to have made this investment.

Through the leadership and dedication of the Department of Works and Engineering in collaboration with vendors and sponsors, the fields were resurfaced, a community wound was healed and the facilities are now fully useable for all.

We have to extend our thanks to everyone who collaborated on bringing this project to completion. Gorham’s Ltd, the executive of Western Stars Sports Club, the Bermuda Football Association and the Bermuda Cricket Board have worked with the Government to ensure the field improvements have not only been completed but also meet international football and cricket standards.

Alongside this investment, our commitment to our island’s sports clubs extends further to sponsoring the iconic Cup Match teams, establishing the Bermuda Economic Development Agency Sports Clubs Micro Loan Initiative, featuring $25,000 loan guarantees and awarding more than $1 million in capital development grants to 23 local community clubs to support critical upgrades to their facilities.

In conclusion, this initiative is part of keeping the promise the PLP made in 2017 to support our sports clubs. It is also a shining example of listening, responsive governance, and putting our money into the things that matter most to us and our community.

• Jaché Adams is a government backbencher and the Member of Parliament for Pembroke West (Constituency 19)