Dear Editor,
I HAVE read in the Stabroek News dated Thursday, September 7, 2017, an article under the caption, “Koker breaks away at Meten-Meer-Zorg” and wish to pontificate for the purpose of sensitisation and edification, actions of the Regional Executive Officer (REO)Mr. Denis Jaikaran on the day in question.

To begin with, the Divisional Commander, Mr. Leslie James, made contact with me through the Deputy Regional Executive Officer Ms. Jennifer Dougall and provided transportation to the site. On my way to the site, I communicated with Mr. Jaikaran who was at the time travelling in the Essequibo River returning from site visits. Mr. Jaikaran upon his arrival was briefed by yours truly about the situation, after which a GUYSUCO representative informed us that equipment was on the way to the site. A couple of minutes later we were joined by officers from the Sea Defence Commission, Regional Administration and the NDIA. In fact, the CEO of the NDIA, Mr. Flatts himself, was present on site.

Secondly, the REO after being briefed of the situation left the site and visited surrounding communities. He interacted with worried residents and assured them that the situation was under control due to teamwork from GUYSUCO, the NDIA, SEA DEFENCE and REGIONAL ADMINISTRATION.

Thirdly, the REO returned to the site and stayed extremely late with the workers. He assured the workers that should more resources be needed, he would happily provide same.
Fourthly, the REO revisited the site on the morning of September 7, 2017, and had a first-hand look at the situation after which he went back into the surrounding communities and spoke once again with residents. Fifthly, the REO revisited again in the afternoon of September 7, 2017 and again spoke with residents. He indicated that his presence would be felt until final normalcy is restored, even though no severe flooding was reported.

Editor, the REO did not surprise me with his actions and I am certain he did not surprise many others, but for the sake of information, I believe it is necessary to document on record his involvement with reference to this situation. In conclusion, it is necessary to congratulate all who made it possible in bringing the situation under complete control, especially GUYSUCO, the NDIA, SEA DEFENCE and of course the REGIONAL ADMINISTRATION, REGION THREE.

Regards
Ganesh Mahipaul