‘We have to work together in order to develop Guyana’ – Min. Scott urges East Bank of Essequibo residents
─ Farm Village welcomes Min. Keith Scott
─ residents satisfied with countrywide development
─ pledged their support to the Coalition
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, November 9, 2019
In a well-attended public meeting, at Farm village on the East Bank of Essequibo, (EBE), Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, with responsibility for Labour, Hon. Keith Scott assured residents that the government continues to listen as its aim remains to positively improve the lives of all Guyanese.
Prior to the meeting, the minister and his team conducted a walkabout in the community, them proceeded to the Farm Multi-Purpose Centre.
The meeting, held on Friday, was chaired by community activist Kenneth Young who welcomed the minister to the community.
In remarks, Minister Scott reminded that the government has a listening ear and will continue in its effort to find solutions to matters as they arise, much to the benefit of the Guyanese people.
“We believe in the listening methodology. Not because we are in government, we will impose ourselves onto your community. We come to you primarily to hear from you. We want to know what your issues are, and we want you to assist us in solving the issues. We are a team and working together is a must for our country’s development. Your government is listening, so please speak to us.”
Also attending the meeting was Regional Executive Officer (REO), Jennifer Ferreira-Dougall, who reminded the audience that her doors are always open. “I have been in this region as REO since the beginning of this year, and since then, I had an open-door policy. The policy is still the same. Visit my office and let’s move Farm forward. Visit my office and let’s move Region Three forward; visit my office and let’s together develop Guyana.”
When the floor was open for questions and comments at the meeting, residents did not hesitate to commend the government for the many achievements in the last four years.
“We have a better education sector now. Our children are doing better in school, and the results are a testimony to that fact, and with the focus on Education the good life is not too far in the future,” said Linden Fowler who is an NDC and RDC Councillor.
To further drive home his point, he referenced several infrastructural improvements in his community which includes roads, bridges and sea-defence.
In the same vein, another villager Saleema Mohamed, boasted that works are ongoing at the Multi-Purpose Centre, and playgrounds will be upgraded for recreational purpose.
A few residents also took the opportunity to raise concerns surrounding farming lands in the Backdam. In response, the residents were encouraged to visit the Office of the REO so that amicable solutions can be met.
The community meeting on Friday was deemed a success in the eyes of many who attended, and Minister Scott has committed to returning to ensure the matters raised were addressed.
More outreaches are expected to be held in the region on Thursday, November 14. Meetings are scheduled for Den Amstel, Uitvlugt, Bagotville, Crane and Parika. On Sunday, November 17, the riverine communities will also get a chance to interact with their government as outreaches are planned for Aliki, Santa Mission, Hogg Island, Fort Island, Karia Karia, Leguan and Wakenaam.