Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine has expressed disappointment with the City Engineer’s Department over its failure to properly carry out its duties.
At a press conference held yesterday, Narine said the situation concerning the valve at the Stabroek Market that had to be addressed by the Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill on Tuesday, had been entrusted to the City Engineer, Colvern Venture.
He explained that Venture was directed to replace the valve and while he is unsure what Venture might have done when the task was given to him, he said it was his responsibility to ensure the work was done since it is what he was being paid for.
The Mayor while expressing gratitude to Edghill for getting the job done, shared his opinion that the City Engineer’s Department was an embarrassment to the entire city of Georgetown.
He said when he took up office at the City Council, the City Engineer’s Department was in need of someone who had a vision for the city and who knew how to manage the department well.
He said that he was embarrassed as mayor that the ministry had to get the job done, but nevertheless was grateful as he stated that he will give credit where it is due.
Meanwhile, Narine also disclosed that the Transport and Harbours Department owed the council close to $400 million in taxes and asked that the Minister seek to address the issue.
He later made reference to Edghill’s visit to Albouystown and stated that the council will be better able to do a lot more in the city if monies owed were repaid.
He further stated that it would be unfair to call out the city to get things done while on the other hand not paying dues owed.
Narine called on the government to move away from what he described as “cheap politics” and work together for the development of the people.
He stated that this was his final warning to the City Engineer’s Department, and added that as Mayor he will protest its substandard work as he is not pleased with the condition of the city.
Edghill on Tuesday visited the Stabroek Market area where vendors were complaining bitterly about flooding due to clogged drains and a broken valve. The minister subsequently ordered his Special Projects Unit to intervene and remedy the problem.
“Mayor and City Council needs to do their job. They are collecting revenue and are not functioning as they should, especially in the Markets. What are they doing with taxpayer’s money? We are doing Albouystown and other projects already on their behalf presently,” admonished the minister.
