Amerindian communities along the Berbice River bank will now benefit from a $22.2M community boat instead of the two boats that had been originally envisaged.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai recently travelled to Region Ten to inform Wiruni, Wikki/Calcuni, Sand Hills, Hururu and Kimbia residents that President Bharrat Jagdeo’s commitment to obtaining the vessels would be fast-tracked. According to the Government Information Agency (GINA) the ministry was informed that the cost of building the vessels was much higher than budgeted, which led to the ministry’s meeting with the community leaders to decide on the next step.
The minister told the group that the cost of material for the boats had increased therefore the plans needed to be revised. Project Consultant Rudolph Calender gave the Toshaos a detailed report of the estimates of the proposed boats and the group then decided to build one durable boat for $22.2M. The vessel is expected to transport passengers and produce to New Amsterdam. A management team will be set up to oversee operations and maintenance. The communities had previously been serviced by a boat but this was withdrawn some years ago.
GINA said Permanent Secretary Emil McGarrell accompanied Sukhai to the meeting.
