Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee said the ministry has committed to collaborating with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) “to establish some level of fire fighting capacity at Mahdia, Region Eight.”
According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), the announcement was made in the wake of a recent fire which reduced the Mahdia shopping arcade to ashes. Subsequently, members of the GGDMA engaged the minister and other agencies to explore the possibilities of mobilising the region to prevent another disaster. Rohee said that stakeholders will focus on devising ways and means of fire prevention, with the assistance of the GGDMA.
GGDMA President Fredrick Mc Wilfred said he was heartened by the minister’s prompt response. He said the GGDMA is keen on collaborating with the relevant agencies, particularly government, to work towards providing relief and help affected residents rebuild. He emphasised that the GGDMA is committed to ensuring that steps are taken within the framework of government policies and expertise within the GFS.
The organisation has already raised over $10M and is currently awaiting permission from the ministry, which will be granted via the Commissioner of Police, to solicit funds from the public. In response, Rohee said steps are already in place to ensure that the request is expedited.
Meanwhile, Chief Fire Officer Marlon Gentle said though the responsibility for preventing fires rests with the GFS, he is heartened by the response of stakeholders to come on board to formulate a strategy to protect Mahdia.
