UK High Commissioner calls on Public Works Minister

Ministry of Public Works

Press Release

Thursday, August 13, 2020

– discusses several areas of interests

The British High Commissioner to Guyana, His Excellency, Gregory Quinn, accompanied by Deputy British High Commissioner, Ray Davidson, on Wednesday paid a courtesy call to the Minister of Public Works, Hon. Bishop Juan Edghill, where several matters of interest were discussed.

Among the issues were a few projects that were put on hold due to the political situation that lasted for five months.

The diplomats discussed designs for the Linden/ Mabura Road and the Kurupukari Bridge as well as the Stabroek and Vreed-en-Hoop Stellings.

H.E. Quinn also offered support in the renewable energy sector and suggested that oil funds be invested into renewable energy to boost the green economy.

It was also highlighted that the United Kingdom has been providing support to Guyana, to aid in the fight against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), through the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

Minister Edghill indicated that he anticipates the technical exchanges with the UK, in the area of infrastructural development, to create an environment of innovative thinking.

According to the Minister, one of his aims is to implement a strict maintenance plan to avoid deterioration before works are completed, as this is more costly.

When questioned about commercial flights and the Suriname Ferry Service, Minister Edghill explained that:

“Plans for the re-opening of the airport are in compliance with the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to have it open in the shortest possible time, and the same can be explained for the Suriname Ferry Service.”

The British High Commissioner also queried about the Ministry’s plans for the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

Minister Edghill disclosed that the Government is committed to building the new bridge; however, he explained that they never saw the details but merely saw the design.

“We are committed to building a new Demerara River crossing so that is going to happen… I’m not sure which proposal we will be going with but… the location and feasibility; the former Minister Robeson Benn had done pre-feasibility that had shown three possible spots and one of the venues was right where the current bridge is.”

Minister Edghill expressed his gratitude to the UK for their profound support to Guyana in the fight for democracy.

CATEGORIES