More than 1 000 land titles distributed in Region Three

THE Ministry of Housing and Water yesterday distributed about 1 013-land titles to residents of several housing schemes in Region Three (West Demerara/Essequibo Islands) as well as squatter settlements which have been regularised.

"Today is a very special day, not only for the Ministry of Housing and Water and regional administration, Region Three, but also to all of you. We are creating history for the first time we are distributing over 1 000 titles," Housing and Water Minister Shaik Baksh told the large gathering at the West Demerara Secondary School.

Minister Baksh presents a resident with his land title

Noting that some infrastructure has been put in place, including a water supply system, the Minister gave residents the assurance that early next year the system will be upgraded. Roads will also be constructed through the squatting areas. Minister Baksh also said that his ministry intends to improve conditions in Belle West and added that the roads there will be paved, and the drainage and water supply systems rehabilitated. Roads will also be completed and commissioned in Crane/Best, he said.

According to a release from the Ministry, massive development is taking place at Parfait /Harmonie where Phase One, with 500 house lots, has been completed and work has already started in Phase Two, which will provide another 500 lots. This will bring the number of house lots in the West Demerara to more than 7 000.

The minister announced that before the middle of next year the government and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) will be providing infrastructure for another 3 000 house lots.

Also addressing the gathering were Region Three Chairman Esau Dookie and Chairman of the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Dr. Moti Lall. In his welcoming address, the Regional Chairman urged the people to seize the opportunity to own their own lots now. He lauded officers of the Ministry of Housing for the efforts they have made to make the distribution of titles a reality.

The building located on Mongrippa Hill, in Bartica which the President declared open yesterday.


President Bharrat Jagdeo interacting with students of the Bartica Secondary School before the official ceremony commenced. (Pictures by Cullen Bess-Nelson)

President Jagdeo samples juice from a booth at the exhibition in Essequibo

Sunday, November 02, 2003