Crash Water mulling housing development
― under the Sustainable Hinterland Housing project
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, November 25, 2019
Residents of Crash Water, Region 9 are mulling the establishment of a housing scheme in the village.
A resident, Charles Joseph, raised the idea during a community meeting hosted by the Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. Valarie Garrido-Lowe.
The minister advised the community members to conduct an assessment and shortlist persons who require housing and then apply to the ‘Sustainable Hinterland Housing project’, which is being executed by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).
She explained that the housing project is funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and has seen several hinterland communities in Regions 1 and 9 benefitting from the construction of new homes, repairs to roofs and the installation of rainwater harvesting system. In Region 1, a total of 93 houses were constructed and 33 roofs replaced; while in Region 9, to date 101 houses were constructed with 15 rooves replaced.
Apart from housing, several other issues were raised which include the need for the construction of farm to market road, an extension to the Crash Water Primary School as the student population has grown; and support to develop sporting activities in the area.
Minister Garrido-Lowe noted the concerns of the residents with the view of having them relayed to the relevant authorities for urgent resolution.
She reminded residents of the massive development, in the four years, under the tenure of the Coalition Government.
“Indigenous peoples across the country have benefitted like never before,” she noted.
Facilities, such as free internet service and the establishment of radio stations, put hinterland residents on par with coast landers in terms of communication; notably the decentralisation of public services, she continued.
Cautioning residents not to fall prey to rumours and false information that may infiltrate the community, Minister Garrido-Lowe expressed confidence in His Excellency, President David Granger’s leadership.
“He [the president] is a humble leader, an honest leader and a leader that we believe in,” she posited.
During the minister’s visit, she, along with businessman Ken Grant, donated several items to the community, including mosquito nets, sport gear and sewing machines.
The community will also benefit from 200 black giant chickens shortly.