Residents of Black Bush Polder on Saturday complained to Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh about the need for Wi-Fi and better roads and water in their communities.
The residents have raised the same issues several times in the past with ministers of the previous government and current Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha.
One resident, Chetram Tulsi, 53, took along a bottle of water to show the minister the exact condition of the water they are getting. The other residents gathered at the Lesbeholden Primary School for the community meeting also agreed with Tulsi stressing that for many years this has been the situation. Residents also said that they are unclear whether the pipe system has been “flushed out” anytime in the past.
Minister Singh through the Regional Vice Chairman, Zamal Hussain contacted the regional official for the Guyana Water Incorporated who then promised that the system would have been flushed out yesterday as this is what was needed.
Another resident spoke of the need for an internet connection within Black Bush Polder. She explained, that children are the ones suffering the most especially with most of their classes being online now.
The residents in Black Bush Polder have never had the services of landline telephones hence they cannot access GTT’s Wi-Fi connection.
Singh said that this will have to be looked at soon, noting, that even if the possibility exists for residents to access some sort of Wi- Fi without the services of a landline phone then it might have to be considered.
In terms of roads, the residents complained bitterly, as they have done in the past.
However, it was relayed by the regional officials that Minister of Agriculture, Mustapha had already ensured that some of the roads were catered for in this year’s budget. Singh said that the other roads will have to be looked at as well.
For some cross streets, it was noted that the regional engineer was in the area this week taking down information.
Meanwhile, at Saturday’s meeting Singh praised the residents for speaking up as he noted the importance of having an open discussion. He stressed, that his meetings were apart of President Irfaan Ali’s broader commitment to engage citizens across Guyana.
The residents also spoke of creating job opportunities for the younger generation, stressing, that Black Bush Polder has a young emerging workforce. One elderly resident said that it is important for government to create opportunities not only with rice, sugar and vegetables but other products.
The minister agreed and noted that his government is focused on creating a path for the younger generation.
Singh also distributed food hampers to residents at the Sheet Anchor Primary School, Albion Community Centre and a location in Crabwood Creek.
He repeatedly encouraged persons to pay attention to the Covid-19 guidelines and urged elderly citizens to get their vaccines.
