I must respond to former Prime Minister, and now Mayor, Hamilton Green’s missive in KN on 17.5.10.
*About “the higher authorities” refusing permission to Eddie Grant to develop that part of Kingston, earmarked for the proposed building of the Marriot Hotel: absolutely, it is the state’s prerogative on large scale economic ventures. Notwithstanding, the international megastar that this great Guyanese is, did his proposed development plan envisage an economic venture of significant benefit to the local economy? Did the M&CC have the authority to decide on such, a venture?
I am almost certain that the authorities, as referred to, decided to support the larger venture, for reasons that are related to the national plan for tourism development. That I say so, is without prejudice to whatever plan Mr. Grant may have had.
* About the status of the Cubana Air Disaster Monument, and non-building of a monument in honour of the executed slaves of the 1823 rebellion:  to the best of my memory, the Works Ministry objected to the site of the Cubana Monument, pointing out that  that  site posed some traffic hazards. Personally, the initially designated area is definitely inadequate, taking into consideration the space for the annual wreath laying ceremony etc. But, such a tribute should have been built long ago, since during the former PNC administration. Agree with me, comrade Green?.  It is my understanding that there is/was a site proposal for the Tukeyen Campus/ some other suitable site
Certainly, any right thinking Guyanese would support the fact of a monument to those heroic executed slaves of the 1823 rebellion. These were martyrs, and therefore must be honoured. But, the mayor ought to be asked why such a symbol was not done during the PNC’s administration. I am certain that President Jagdeo will honour his promise of a monument to those valiant gentlemen, whose decapitated heads adorned stakes around the Parade Ground.  And as an aside, why did not Mr Green, when he was at the height of his powers, especially during the Burnham years, developed the Independence Boulevard, part of an area from which he originated?  He was frantic, when he became mayor, in his bid to build the strip of badly deteriorated roadway that stretched from Barr Street right through Lyng Street. Then what about the entire Albouystown roadway, that was filled with so many potholes; and no boxing gym in the ward, avid sportsman that he is purported to be?
*About those reported nine choppers: were they all in flying order, moreso towards the beginning of, and, mid-90s? For I do recall a GDF explanation, that most were grounded because of mechanical issues etc. I even recalled where it was reported that it would have been very costly to repair the BELL-412, and that it will be sold? But, the administration has since purchased two of these machines, but of a different make.
These things that Mayor Green now demands of the PPP/C administration could have been done during the former PNC stewardship. That is the truth, the whole truth.