Île-aux-Bénitiers Reopens After 3 Months of Work: Relief for Visitors & Traders

The island of Île-aux-Bénitiers has reopened to the public on Monday, June 16, 2025, after three months of restoration and improvements. The island was closed for two months for a major cleanup, and the reopening follows a collaborative effort involving the government, local authorities, environmental groups, boaters, and engaged citizens.

During the closure, the island was cleaned, reorganized, and equipped with new management structures.

A code of conduct will now guide activities on the site to protect its biodiversity and regulate tourism better.

Joanna Bérenger, the Junior Minister of Environment, addressed stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts.

Boat operators, previously criticized for some irresponsible practices, played a key role in the cleanup alongside the Citizens’ Collective for Île-aux-Bénitiers.

A participatory approach was launched to continue training local actors, including ecological awareness workshops organized by NGOs like Coral Garden Conservation.

Virginia Lamarque, a boat owner, expressed relief: “Reopening the island is a huge relief for everyone because we haven’t been able to visit for almost three months.”

She mentioned that traders arrived early, at 6 a.m., due to low tide. For her, the island is more than just a workplace — it’s part of their history and daily life, where they have watched their children grow, shared special moments, and experienced the sea, sun, seasons, and encounters.

Lamarque also praised the efforts made, such as the construction of new dry toilets by the Ministry of Environment. She noted a growing collective awareness:

“People feel more responsible now. Everyone sees themselves as a guardian of the island’s environment.”

Boat operators and traders play a vital role in maintaining the island, being present daily and able to intervene quickly if needed. Lamarque urged colleagues to stay vigilant:

“Let’s take care of the island, report issues, keep it clean, and educate visitors. And to visitors — please don’t leave trash, take your waste home.”

Jessica, a trader, highlighted that the island supports women entrepreneurs and allows her to earn a decent living. She expressed happiness to be back in business.

Joanna Bérenger called the reopening a “day of celebration.” She thanked everyone involved and shared her joy in seeing the site’s beauty restored, while also expressing understanding for those whose activities were interrupted during the closure.

This reopening marks the start of a more sustainable and inclusive management approach, aiming to preserve this unique natural heritage while allowing public access.

Source: Defi Media