ensuring access to essential services

RESIDENTS of Pigeon Island, East Coast Demerara, are set to benefit from enhanced infrastructure and essential services as the government continues its transformative development agenda. Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, reaffirmed this commitment during a community engagement on Monday evening, where he provided updates on key initiatives.

One of the significant developments outlined was the ongoing work at the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Water Treatment Plant. Minister Croal assured residents that their longstanding water challenges will soon be resolved.
“By the end of April, all of you will be receiving treated water through the LBI Water Treatment Plant,” Minister Croal announced, bringing much-needed relief to the community.
Beyond improving water access, Pigeon Island has seen substantial infrastructure upgrades and the regularisation of a section of the community. These efforts have enabled residents to achieve legal homeownership through the Ministry’s intervention.
Minister Croal also highlighted the government’s broader housing agenda for the East Coast of Demerara. Since 2020, over 17,000 house lots have been allocated in the region, contributing to a national total of approximately 42,000 lots distributed to date. Additionally, the government has invested $43 billion in developing housing schemes across the East Coast, transforming previously undeveloped lands into thriving residential communities.

“Our goal is to address all gaps so that development is not just happening in one community,” the minister stated, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to equitable progress.
The minister further assured residents that housing and infrastructure development on the East Coast will match, if not surpass, that of the East Bank. He pointed to major projects such as the Ogle Bypass Road and improved road networks, which are expected to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic activity, and create job opportunities.

Addressing concerns about informal settlements, Minister Croal reiterated the government’s policy against new squatting. He noted that the ministry is actively monitoring several areas for regularisation, although in some instances, relocation will be necessary. The government remains committed to ensuring equitable development across all communities.

During the interactive session, residents raised various concerns, all of which were addressed by Minister Croal and his team. Accompanying the minister were the Central Housing and Planning Authority’s Director of Community Development, Mr. Gladwin Charles; representatives from the community; and officials from Guyana Water Inc. (GWI).

The government’s continued efforts in Pigeon Island underscore its pledge to sustainable development, ensuring that no community is left behind in Guyana’s progress.