‘Make sure NDCs serve community needs of all’ – Min. Felix
– implores citizens to hold local representatives accountable
– NDIA to assess drainage issue in Bagotstown
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, July 13, 2019
The government has been encouraging citizens across the country to hold their respective Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) accountable as efforts continue to ensure the effective functioning of officials at the regional and community level.
Minister of Citizenship, Hon. Winston Felix echoed this call during a community engagement in the Bagotstown, on Thursday. He called on the residents to attend the NDC meetings and let their voices be heard.
“Hold their feet to the fire and make sure they serve in the interest of the general public and not one side” he emphasised.
Prior to the meeting, the minister conducted a walkabout in the community. This gave him the opportunity to interact with the residents and get a firsthand look at their challenges. Lack of proper drainage in the area was the main issue identified. The residents explained that due to clogged drains and lack of maintenance of overgrown weeds, the area is affected whenever there is excessive rainfall. Noting the urgency of the issue, Minister Felix gave assurance the government will look into the matter but pointed out that it is an issue that must be dealt with at the level of the NDC.
He called on them not to fall prey to allegations made by the opposition that the government is wasting money on community meetings and outreaches.
“The [Coalition] government believes in being close to the people… There is no cost attached to serving the people,” he added.
Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Hon. Valerie Adams-Yearwood, who was also a part of the meeting, said she will have the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) visit to assess what can be done immediately to address the matter.