Dear Editor,
The 11,455 members of the Anything Guyanese Facebook group are profoundly happy with the motion piloted in Parliament, which finally addresses the issue of sanitation in Georgetown and the surrounding environment. Additionally, we are elated with the united language to address the restoration and beautification of the once aptly named “Garden City” back to its original glorious facade. Much praise must be given to Volda Lawrence, for her tireless effort in getting this motion to a successful agreement.
The Guyanese community is anxiously and eagerly looking forward to a successful collaboration. This type of unity “bodes” well for the city, and the entire nation. Going forward, this collaboration must now become contagious in the many other “areas” of neglect. Guyanese of all ethnicity stand to benefit tremendously.
In addition to the sanitary blight which has affected the city of Georgetown, there are additional issues which need to be addressed. First, arrivals at the international airport should not be subjected to beggars, hangers-on or unscrupulous characters. Tourists should never and must not be harassed at the airport, it’s very un-welcoming to the incoming/outgoing tourists. This unacceptable behaviour must be addressed, immediately.
We are also looking forward to a successful and united collaboration in efforts to remove the homeless and vagrants from the streets, while placing them into controlled environments. Stray animals are also a threat to citizens and must be addressed. Proper garbage containers (cans) should be strategically placed around the city, and residents sensitized to the normalcy of using those containers for disposals. Fines must and should be imposed on businesses that are not in compliance with the exterior cleaning of their business frontage.
Finally, Guyanese deserve a cemetery where their final resting days can be a place of dignity and peace. Therefore, all efforts should be made to restore the Le Repentir Cemetery to its original manicured look.
Returning our once proud city to its glory days, should not be “if” but instead “how quickly.” As William Cowper stated “God made country, and man made the town,” so let’s reclaim the beauty of our nation.
Yours faithfully,
Lloyd Phillips
