HEAD of the Presidential Secretariat Dr Roger Luncheon, on Saturday last, addressed several concerns raised by residents of the Coomacka Mines, Maria Elizabeth and Three Friends communities in Region Ten. Dr Luncheon was part of a team reaching out to residents in the region and noted government’s commitment to issues of education, health and other social services.
He noted that there are persons who report on the issues affecting residents but the intention of an outreach is to have decision makers establish a direct link with the people so decisions are of quality and foolproof.
According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), Dr Luncheon stated that Central Government entails supporting the economy and mainstreaming the level of social services available.
He said government’s role is to ensure access to and improve the delivery of a wide range of services, but feedback is crucial to this function.
Some of the major concerns raised were in relation to flooding, roads, access to potable water and sporting facilities.
One woman suggested that the community be presented with sporting gear so as to keep the youth occupied and out of trouble.
Director of Sports, Neil Kumar suggested that the community register its sport group since 10 grounds will be selected for upgrade through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Another woman commented that the school children are forced to await transportation for hours since the school bus has been out of operation for a long time.
Dr Luncheon promised that a comprehensive report on the transportation arrangement would be done on whether or not the bus can be refurbished.
A primary school teacher complained about staff shortage at the Coomacka Nursery School and reported that at present the principal, who attends university, is the sole employee.
He explained that there was the full complement of four teachers to 53 students but owing to circumstances, two teachers were left; one of whom is on Whitley Council leave.
Responding to the issues, Dr Luncheon pointed out that the education system allows for the granting of permission for study purposes only if an alternative arrangement is in place for the delivery of the curriculum.
Dr Luncheon added that the education minister has suggested the removal of bureaucracy to remedy simple problems affecting schools such as a leaky toilet or a broken window pane.
He stressed that cash can be given directly to the headteacher, the Parent/Teachers’ Association or even a committee to deal with petty maintenance of schools.
Dr Luncheon assured the residents that the issues raised will be brought to the attention of the subject ministers so that the necessary remedies can be applied.