Dear Editor,
Kindly permit me an opportunity to respond to a letter published in the Stabroek News dated August 11, 2024, captioned “President could achieve more for city by collaborating with council.”
The M&CC has sole responsibility for managing the affairs of the markets, as cleansing fees and stall rents are collected regularly. Like any owner-tenancy agreement, certain services are expected, with security being a top priority. However, the provision of security in the markets by the M&CC is grossly inadequate. This is evident in the many ‘Break and Entry’ reports tabled at the Council’s Legal Affairs and Security Committee Meetings which are often Chaired by Mr. Saul, as well as reported in the newspapers. As a result, the Guyana Police Force has signaled its intention to assist the City Constabulary in securing the markets. Even stall owners have expressed their willingness to hire private security, but under the stewardship of Mayor Mentore, the M&CC has not taken action and has instead procrastinated, as it does with many other issues.
As the Chairman of the Finance Committee, Mr. Saul should be ashamed to mention the responsibilities of the M&CC, as none are being fulfilled and are instead being shouldered by the government. Although you may continue to hear cries for financial assistance from the government under the Fiscal Transfer Act, it is sad to say that the M&CC doesn’t qualify to receive it because it has not audited its finances for the last six years. However, audits have started this year due to the strong advocacy of PPP/C Councillors. It’s not rocket science to raise awareness among defaulting ratepayers to pay their taxes. We have demand notices that can be sent out, and we have social media, newspapers, etc., more importantly, Chapter 28:01 guides the Council on the steps to be taken in the case of default ratepayers. But it’s the will to change and improve that is often lacking. Sometimes, as a Councillor, I feel it’s sabotage to blame the government for the current state of the M&CC, especially since they had the opportunity to fix issues during 2015-2020 but neglected to do the same.
The M&CC currently owes the Guyana Revenue Authority, Guyana Power and Light, and Guyana Water Inc., all of which are government agencies. Therefore, the figures will essentially offset the other, making it clear that Mr. Saul is being duplicitous in painting a misleading narrative. As the Finance Chair, he should be more concerned about deducting PAYE from M&CC staff but not remitting same to the Guyana Revenue Authority, which is a criminal act.
It must be noted that the M&CC was consulted before the placement of Police Outpost at the Bourda Market via the Clerk of Markets, Chief Constable, market vendors, and the Town Clerk to ascertain the most efficient and strategic area.
Waste disposal practices lie solely with the M&CC. It is the Council’s job to inform generators of expected practices when disposing of their garbage, advising businesses on the Council’s standards by equipping themselves with receptacles, studying the specific needs based on the status quo, and enforcing littering bylaws in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force. Engaging the business community to assist in constant public awareness by forming an alliance is essential, but none of this is being done due to a lack of will; there is more talk than action.
When will the APNU-led Council take responsibility for the city? It seems all too easy to blame the government or call for collaboration on every single issue. What capabilities does the M&CC actually possess? It is clear that the government of the day should be managing the city; it is time for a change!
Sincerely,
Steven Jacobs
Councillor, M&CC
