Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee, at a press conference at his Brickdam office, ,, said that the weather-related effects have severely impacted on Guyana, resulting in many vegetation fires.

The Minister noted that on the international front, many countries are also experiencing the harsh effects of the change in weather pattern which have resulted in the loss of properties and in some cases, lives.

“We believe that given the situation in Guyana and with our grasslands which pose a hazard, there is need for precautionary measures to be put in place.”

Minister Rohee stressed that one main issue of concern for his ministry is derelict buildings which are hazardous and pose a threat to other buildings around the city.

He condemned the action by some persons who are in the habit of burning cut grass. “This behaviour poses environmental health hazards and also affects persons in society, including pregnant mothers, babies and persons with asthmatic conditions.”

The ministry has received a number of complaints from across the country and has issued a stern warning to persons guilty of the act.

The 1998 Act states that any person who is found to be guilty of starting a fire without permission will be placed before the court and will receive a fine of $7,500 or no more than $15,000.

Chief Fire Officer Marlon Gentle said that 515 cases of vegetation fires have been recorded for this year already. Last year there were 203.  

He explained that in most instances fires originate as a result of human activities rather than natural causes, which pose threats to infrastructure.

Gentle indicated that the GFS is also working closely with the City Council to ensure that drainage around the city is functional, since the fire service depends solely on them for water.

Meanwhile, Gentle indicated that GFS’s fleet of fire tenders has been boosted with the arrival of five new vehicles. (GINA)