Sports Minister Daryll Matthew says the government will construct a national swimming pool for athletes.

He said the site for the pool has already been identified and the drawings are with the Development Control Authority (DCA).

Matthew was speaking at a welcome reception for the 2022 OECS champions who returned home after a resounding victory in St Lucia on Monday.

“The fact that you have been performing so well without these facilities, the fact that you continue to be successful and the athletes continue to shine without a proper pool you can train and prepare says a lot about who all of you are as individuals. I want to commit that you have a proper facility in short order,” he added.

He said before the end of 2022, the government will break ground to construct the facility

Meanwhile, President of the National Olympic Committee, E.P Chet Greene congratulated the athletes, expressing how pleased he is with their achievements at the competition.