Republic Arch recommissioned
DPI, Guyana, Friday, February 21, 2020
Prime Minister, Hon. Moses Nagamootoo has recommissioned the Republic Arch at Church Street and Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown to commemorate Guyana 50th Republic anniversary.
The Department of Social Cohesion recently rehabilitated the landmark.
The Prime Minister on Friday noted that the arch – a symbol of national pride – was situated amidst historic architecture including the Georgetown City Hall and the St. George’s Cathedral.
“This arch is located, in the midst of history, in the midst of cultural symbols and of course heritage buildings of the world and so as we look around and look at our parks and cultural sites I want to say that this too, this arch is yet another symbol of our growing national pride.”
PM Nagamootoo noted that the rehabilitation of the arch was part of the government’s plan to restore Georgetown to its former glory.
“Over the years, the Republic Arch has enhanced the beauty of Republic Avenue and its environs. It is with pride that I say that the government has restored our capital city to the state it is today, not a garbage city, but a Garden City.”
The PM added that the construction of arches at the capital’s entry points at Cummings Lodge and Agricola were critical parts of the restoration efforts. Major roadways were also constructed, rehabilitated, and equipped with sidewalks, and overhead pedestrian passes equipped with lifts. Visibility on the roads was also improved with the installation of streetlights.
“Guyana is being transformed into a modern country, and the window to our new world is our capital city, Georgetown. The recommissioning of this arch, therefore, is more than just an event; it is a symbol of our new pride and our status as Guyanese republicans.”
Also, in attendance were Minister of Social Cohesion, Hon. Dr. George Norton, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Dr. Karen Cummings, Minister of Business, Hon. Haimraj Rajkumar, Mayor of Georgetown Pandit Ubraj Narine, and former Mayor Hamilton Greene.
The Republic Arch was erected in 1970 in observance of Guyana attaining Republican status.