Dear Editor,
I have noticed recently the Alliance For Change (AFC) as well as the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Region Four administration chairman has been clamouring for cheap publicity. The issue of the Timehri squatters were taken by the two and used as a tool for propaganda and party mileage. At no time were any constructive ideas or suggestions ever given on the issue, nor was the fact acknowledged, that squatting was illegal.
It is important to note that these squatters are occupying lands that fall within the boundary of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). It is obvious with the presence of the squatters that the security of the airport as well as the safety of the aircraft operations would be seriously compromised.
We have seen over the past few months the theft of items and equipment belonging to the CJIA and airlines which included portable runway lights, runway cables, etc. It is widely believed that some occupants of these buildings are responsible or were in collusion with those who perpetrated these acts.
The CJIA also stands to lose its rating as an international airport, and could be downgraded if the issue is not dealt with immediately, as these structures poses a threat to the image of the airport, public health and safety. It is known that these structures serve as a haven for criminal elements, safe houses for narcotics movement and also promote gambling. It was also documented that a passenger was robbed at the airport after which the assailant fled into the squatting area.
Not only these buildings pose a threat to the CJIA, but it is unsafe for the squatters themselves to be occupying the area; some of these buildings are situated on the edge of a valley and as such are vulnerable to erosion. Additionally, in the event of an aviation accident the squatters would be severely affected.
The claim of the squatters of being unaware of the removal exercise is untrue, since notices to vacate the land were reissued in mid-2008. The CJIA has been making arrangements for the relocation of the illegal shops to an area designated for the purpose.
The People’s Progressive Party Civic administration has always been and will always be sympathetic to the cause of the working class. Acting President Samuel Hinds and Minister of Transport and Hydraulics Robeson Benn, through separate statements have pointed out that the administration has prescribed procedures and norms in dealing with squatter relocation. Government agencies will take the appropriate measures to ensure the well-being and comfort of those being relocated.
The administration through the Ministry of Transport and Hydraulics has a mandate to ensure the proper operation of the country’s international airport, and as such the appropriate measures will be taken from time to time to ensure the mandate is executed. The ministry would not be distracted by those who seek to capitalize on these issues for their personal gain or political mileage.
Yours faithfully,
Ronald Harsawack
