By Faith Seabra

SOME citizens have expressed their displeasure at the acts of vandalism at several recreational facilities, which were revamped under the beautification project of First Lady, Mrs Arya Ali.

Lanterns, tables, chairs, and other decorative structures which cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, and have either been donated by citizens or purchased with taxpayers’ money, have been maliciously damaged at several parks across the country.

These deplorable actions have elicited strong responses from various individuals within the affected areas.

Deborah Doobay Wright, a vendor at the Georgetown seawall, expressed her disapproval of the abhorrent behaviour. She firmly believes that such actions are wrong. Comparing the progress witnessed in other countries and their citizens’ appreciation for development, she lamented the fact that the people of Guyana are actively impeding their own advancement. Wright suggested the implementation of rangers to deter acts of vandalism nationwide, as well as the utilisation of more durable materials in the construction of public recreational facilities.

Ricardo Ramlall, a student at Marian Academy, contended that these acts not only obstruct citizens’ ability to enjoy Guyana’s scenic landscapes but also detrimentally impact the country’s tourism industry. He asserted that the prevalent perception of Guyana as an unclean nation, perpetuated by acts of vandalism and littering, hampers tourism prospects among both locals and foreigners. Ramlall believes that genuine transformation begins with instilling in the youth a mindset that abhors both filth and crime.

The Sunday Chronicle also spoke with Carl Melville, the inspiration behind the Seawalls and Beyond clean-up group. Melville, who has been devotedly cleaning the seawalls since 2019, has witnessed firsthand the adverse effects of vandalism and littering on the country’s environment. He attributed such behaviour to a cultural issue and emphasised the need for stricter police regulations and the enforcement of the law as crucial steps toward fostering positive change.

Melville’s concern for maintaining cleanliness of the environment was emphasised by his recollection of a manatee found near the Marriott Hotel with its airways obstructed by plastic waste.

Jediya Grimmond, a student at St. Rose’s High School, said the government’s commendable efforts in establishing safe recreational facilities are squandered by vandals and litterbugs who tarnish their beauty through these repugnant acts. Grimmond believes that these undesirable behaviours stem from a lack of proper etiquette, disrespect for the country, and political conflicts.
She said that organising more clean-up campaigns will have a positive impact on the country and its recreational facilities.

Addressing the issue of property destruction, the First Lady recently issued a statement highlighting the legal consequences awaiting the perpetrators. “I take this time to remind the perpetrators that the laws of Guyana provide for persons to be charged with damaging public or private property under the Administration of Justice Bill. Similarly, penalties exist for litterbugs including businesses,” she said in her statement.

The First Lady also highlighted that there are constant reports of patrons improperly disposing of their waste at these facilities, despite the fact that there are adequate garbage receptacles. Vendors who ply their trade in or around these spaces are also guilty of improperly disposing of their waste, which pose health and environmental risks.

Within the last eight months, two parks have been developed and handed over to the residents of La Jalousie on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), and New Amsterdam, Berbice. Three other parks are currently being developed: one at Diamond/Grove on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), one at Tuschen on the East Bank Essequibo, and another at Corriverton, Berbice.

Additionally, Kingston Seawall is undergoing enhancement works which will transform it into a major hub for commercial and cultural activities.