Region Seven residents urged to support gov’t’ s work – during independence anniversary celebration

Guyana, GINA, Friday, May 26, 2017

Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson reminded Region Seven residents of the big plans the government has in store for the region as she called on them to lend  support  in making these plans a reality.

The Minister was delivering the feature address on Thursday evening at the 51st Independence flag raising ceremony in Bartica held under the theme  “Unity in diversity in a green economy.”

Present were Mayor, Bartica, Gifford Marshall, Regional Executive Officer (REO), Roderick Edinburg and regional and municipal councillors.

Minister Ferguson explained to the huge gathering that since the APNU/AFC coalition entered office  two years ago, it has been, and continues to work to restore the neglected regions in Guyana, especially Bartica. Hence, in 2016 the government undertook several ambitious and transformative projects including the reconstruction of the Barbican-Potaro road to 5 mile, rehabilitation of the Puruni-Itabali road, construction of the Apanachi Bridge to 26 miles Issano, and rehabilitation and construction of drains and bridges in Bartica.

Most importantly plans for the Green Bartica project are stepping up as the municipality is set to receive  a grant from the Office of Climate Change shortly, to aid the project. She also highlighted  the enhancement and upgrade of the Bartica Stelling which is currently ongoing.

The Minister noted that most of the above mentioned projects have been completed and efforts are increasing to complete the others before the end of 2017. She emphasised the need for unity.

“We are not like some who talk and divide, we preach unity and mean unity…..I urge you as Guyanese to fight against those who continuously seek to divide us as a nation…I encourage you to support your leaders as they develop new initiatives to move Bartica and to create the good life for all citizens,” Minister Ferguson  declared.

The Minister posited that this government continues to work to realise its manifesto promises and has since been delivering. Some achievements are increased old age pension and public servants,’ salaries, 51 new ICT hubs across Guyana, and 14 percent VAT reduction among many others from which Bartica residents have also benefitted.

“Bartica, since gaining township status in 2015, I am aware that your region and communities have changed  and there are many changes coming your way. As we celebrate another year as an independent nation let us unite and embrace nation building,” Minister Ferguson concluded.

Mayor Marshall echoed the sentiments of Minister Ferguson, urging the residents to work together to move Bartica forward. He stressed that there are lots of work and responsibilities to take the town forward, but they can only be accomplished by bridging the gap of disunity.

“Guyana can and will move forward only if we work together. For too long we’ve been neglected and left out from the decision making process in Guyana, but as the Government seeks to promote unity, three Barticians are seated on three important boards namely housing, health and the Guyana National Newspapers Limited,” Marshall pointed out.

The Mayor further illustrated several plans underway for Bartica including the forthcoming boulevard, enhanced community centre ground and the eminent Green Bartica project.

Mayor Marshall lauded the government for these initiatives which will certainly improve the standard of life for not only Bartica, but Region Seven at large.

During the event, the gathering was reminded to never forget the great leaders who fought for Guyana’s freedom.

Residents from across the region displayed their talents and skills through dances, poems, dramatic pieces, comedy and songs.

By: Ranetta La Fleur

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