THE Protected Areas Commission of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment have spearheaded, for the first time, the lighting-up of several trees in the National Park, in keeping with the Christmas season.

President Donald Ramotar threw on the switch to illuminate the trees, and another to light-up the joggers’ track in the Park.

The latter exercise is part of the Three-Parks Initiative, and was specially added to the work that will be carried out under the programme at the behest of the President.
President Ramotar explained that the aim was to make the park brighter and safer for those persons who, due to their work schedule, can only use the park to work out and relax, late in the evenings.
The President himself has utilised the park for several years and is only seeking to ensure that all have the opportunity to enjoy the beneficial effects of exercise.
President Ramotar noted that the PPP/C government has always sought to ensure the park is accessible to all Guyanese, noting that it was this Government that opened up the park to the public, which was once a golf club, restricted to members only.
The Three-Parks Initiative being undertaken under the stewardship of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment is aimed at bringing up to international standards the Zoo, the National Park and the Botanical Gardens.
Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, who was also present at the ceremony, noted that the initiative not only seeks to upgrade the parks, but also to bring to the city the pristine environment that is enjoyed in the hinterland regions.
Lighting up of the joggers’ track will facilitate persons enjoying the use of the park up to about 9 pm. (GINA)