THE Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, presented the Matarkai sub-district of Region One with a mini excavator and two emergency response vehicles aimed at strengthening the Guyana Fire Service’s (GFS) capacity to respond to emergencies and support critical infrastructural projects.
According to the release from the Ministry, the investments are expected to significantly enhance the GFS’ ability to respond swiftly to emergencies and support essential infrastructural works within the sub-district.

He also noted that the provision of these resources marks a vital step towards safeguarding lives and property, particularly in hinterland and riverine communities where immediate response is crucial and often life-saving.
Minister Croal further noted that the mini excavator and one of the emergency response vehicles were officially handed over in Port Kaituma to the Chairman of the Matarkai Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Keith Parker.

He added that the Assistant Regional Executive Officer (AREO), Jason Ramjohn, and other local officials were also present at the handing-over ceremony.
Meanwhile, the second emergency response vehicle was delivered to the community of Matthews Ridge, where the Minister, alongside Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley, presented the vehicle to the Vice Chairman of the Matarkai NDC, Celestina Joseph.ls.