Mayor Ubraj Narine has stated that the ongoing works being carried out on the Waterloo Street and Carmichael Street avenues in Georgetown by the Ministry of Public Works is part of the council’s vision for the development of the city.
At a press conference held on Friday in the Council Chamber, Narine disclosed that the council’s vision for the avenues was previously outlined in 2019, and forwarded to the then Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson.
He explained that he is unsure if the ongoing work is in fact from the council’s proposal for the avenues since they are still awaiting some form of documentation from the Ministry of Public Works on the work that is ongoing.
He noted that the council recently met and has informed engineer Rasheed Kellman to inquire about the workso that the city will be able to keep the citizens updated regarding the ongoing work.
With regard to his vision for the avenues, he stated that the intention was to develop the city but at the same time help the citizens and bring in an income by employing a “branding” strategy.
Had Minister Edghill thought to discuss the avenue plans with the council, the idea of branding would have allowed the city to grow its finances and further development, the Mayor said.
Narine also said while he is grateful for the development of the city, communication is necessary and the Mayor and City Council should be kept informed, since it would be improper for the Minister of Public Works to carry out works outside of his domain.
Against this background, he further charged that current Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill is responsible for some destruction in the city while taking praise for works.
He mentioned work done at the 40 and 48 routes bus park and explained that it was regularized by the council. However, he said poles at the park were dismantled under the present government.
Narine said he wrote Edghill and several other officials and he expressed the need to reinstall the poles. However, he noted that after the recent reinstallation, the praise was given to the ministry, which failed to credit the council for making representation for it.
Narine also disclosed that he and Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore had met with Minister Edghill, they had requested that the same collaboration continue between the council and the Ministry as occurred under the previous government.
He added that representation was also made for the cleaning of all drains and the clearing of alleyways in the city.
He said while he recognises the work being done by the Ministry, the council is doing its part.
