First Lady Arya Ali has lamented the vandalising of parks under the National Beautification Project and has warned perpetrators that they are liable to charges.
In a statement yesterday, she said that the beautification project that comes under her office aims to safeguard the scenic qualities of Guyana, while creating a more social and environmentally-friendly society.
Within the last eight months, she said that two parks have been developed and handed over to the residents of La Jalousie on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), and New Amsterdam, Berbice. Three other parks are being developed: one at Diamond/Grove on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), one at Tuschen on the East Bank Essequibo, and another at Corriverton, Berbice.
Additionally, the Kings-ton Seawall is undergoing enhancement works so it could become a major hub for commercial and cultural activities.
“Stymieing and undermining these efforts, however, is the lack of support from some patrons who frequent these facilities and fail to comply with established rules and regulations.
“I continue to receive constant reports of patrons improperly disposing of their waste at these facilities, despite the fact that there are adequate garbage receptacles. Vendors who ply their trade in or around these spaces are also guilty of improperly disposing of their waste, which pose health and environmental risks”, the First Lady said.
Additionally, she said that she had received several reports and photographic evidence of destruction of property at some of these recreational facilities.
“Lanterns, tables, chairs, and other decorative structures which costs hundreds of thousands of dollars, and have either been donated by kindhearted citizens or purchased with taxpayers’ money, have been maliciously damaged at several of these parks.
“I take this time to remind the perpetrators that the laws of Guyana provide for persons to be charged with damaging public or private property under the Administration of Justice Bill. Similarly, penalties exist for litterbugs including businesses”, the First Lady said.
She added: “As we use and enjoy these public facilities, I ask that we take the time to appreciate the work that has gone into developing them, and the importance of ensuring that others can benefit equally”.
