Region Two administration enhancing their...

State House has been completely transformed into an institution which can now conveniently host conferences as well as being much more accommodating for visiting government ministers and other officials of state. It has been redesigned, repainted and refurbished with the environs being kept neatly with blooming flowers and lush green grass.

The regional administrative offices were also repainted, which now enhances the surroundings so the staff can effectively function. I have also witnessed the ongoing establishment of parks along the coast, particularly the one at Exmouth which will be commissioned shortly. While there has been much criticism about the administration placing emphasis on such projects, I am convinced that they will have longstanding benefits for those communities since they will serve to foster greater social cohesion. In fact, without them where will the children go to enjoy an afternoon of fun without having to place financial stress on their parents? There are very few places of relaxation in the Region and those that do exist, are liquor restaurants, gambling spots and erratic spaces for idling youths and adults. These continue to threaten the social fabric of many communities and have led to an increase in crime, drug and alcohol use and illiteracy. I am convinced therefore that the idea on the part of the administration to provide dignified channels of pleasure is timely, and will benefit the population immensely.

I have also observed a significant increase in the number of huge structures, particularly those built by the private sector. This is an indication that there is confidence in doing business in Essequibo, especially now that there are reliable sources of electricity and internet services. In fact, the CEO of GTT Mr Justin Nedd was in Essequibo recently and has assured residents of the company’s capacity to deliver quality bandwidth and speed. Previously these had impeded the expansion of the Region’s technological horizon.

Yours faithfully, Elroy Stephney