Dear Editor
CONSIDERABLE gains have been attained towards the delivery of goods and services to the residents of Region Two.
The administration, despite criticisms, has strengthened its procurement practices aimed at gaining value for money, particularly in the areas of infrastructural development including the building and maintenance of roads, dams, sluices, schools, bridges and culverts across the region.

The agriculturally dominated region has been plagued in the past with having to endure ageing and dilapidated structures that frequently ruined harvesting and resulted in financial losses to rice and cash crop farmers. Access dams leading into the rice fields were neglected, while sluices for irrigation collapsed in many areas. Such inconsistencies had a negative effect on the region’s economy which had also led to the abandonment of fertile lands by frustrated farmers.

Presently however, the scenario is gradually being reversed with prudent management oby the administration. Significant progress has since been engineered with the building of new structures that seeks to support the region’s expansion in agriculture. Several villages across the Essequibo Coast are now less susceptible to flooding due to better drainage and irrigation. Rice lands are now enjoying the same conditions resulting in higher yields.

It is evident too that it is due to a collaborative effort between stakeholders and the administration that has led to the gainful transformation of the landscape and economy of the region. Persons are now willing to engage the administration in exposing deficiencies in the system, as well as providing practical ideas and solutions which have not been ignored.
Residential areas for many years have also suffered due to clogged drains and trenches, as well as overgrown bushes along the pathways.

Such conditions have posed a threat to advancing tourism; hence a conscious effort is now being undertaken by the administration to cleanse the environment through community development initiatives and in partnership with volunteer groups and other stake- holders. It is now a foregone conclusion regarding the present beauty of many sections along the Essequibo Coast and interior locations.

This has also been advanced with the establishment of social parameters which seek to encourage bonding and much-sought relaxation. It is the administration’s mandate therefore to continue the path of securing a good life for all through innovative and strategic means, while fostering a harmonious relationship with the communities.

It continues to be a work in progress, but one which will be sustained, advanced and maintained to the high standards that have already been set by the administration.

Regards
Elroy Stephney