“NDC, RDC have a responsibility to ensure surroundings are maintained” – Min. Ferguson urges collaboration to address community issues
─ meets with residents of West Coast of Berbice
― ministry to schedule an assessment of Golden Grove “to determine what intervention can be taken at the level of the infrastructure ministry”
DPI, Guyana, Thursday, April 25, 2019
Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, walked through several villages on West Coast of Berbice on April 25, then held a meeting at the Groden Nursery School where concerns were raised by residents which included: development of roads, an inspection office for electrical works, housing woes, employment for youths and other infrastructural issues.
One resident of Golden Grove explained: “The previous administration, put their foot down and only helped their people. For me to get my utility, I had to go deep in my pocket to pay… The last administration dug dams and just left them, right now its hazardous and accessibility is problematic. There are no lights at night. I’m asking if the government can help, at least meet us halfway.”
On the issue of accessibility, Minister Ferguson promised:
Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson addressing residents in Lovely Lass after her walkabout in parts of West Coast of Berbice.
“We will schedule a visit to the area so an assessment can be to determine what intervention can be taken at the level of the infrastructure ministry.”
Another resident, Julian Morris, mother of two said, “I would like to have my own home, but I keep going back and forth with the housing ministry which is seemingly getting no-where, it would be nice if you can provide assistance in this area.”
Addressing the issue of housing, the minister promised to follow-up to ensure a speedy resolution.
Minister Ferguson reminded the residents of the many improvements made under the current administration and called on them to collaborate with the administration to further improve their community.
“We should rub shoulders together to do great things,” she said.
She mentioned the fact that the NDC and the regional administration have a role to play in ensuring that services are provided to the communities since they pay rate and taxes.
“They have a responsibility to ensure your surroundings are maintained.”
Additionally, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communities, Emil McGarrel announced that nearly $8M has been approved for a ground enhancement project in the village of Lovely Lass, West Coast, Berbice, by the Communities Ministry. This initiative will see contractors, labourers and material suppliers benefiting from the project as it will allow for employment opportunities in the region.
Kipenie Jordan
Images: Kawise Wishart