urges continued community engagements

A NEW $18.3 million office building for the No. 64-74 Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) was officially commissioned on Wednesday by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag. The new facility is expected to enhance administrative efficiency and provide a more comfortable environment for staff and residents seeking public services.
While hailing the modern office as a positive development, Minister Parag reminded NDC officials that their work must remain grounded in the communities they serve. “You still have to go out there and do your field work,” she emphasised. “A comfortable space should not take away from your responsibility to be present and responsive on the ground.”

Minister Parag highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening local democracy and boosting community development through increased funding and resource support to all Local Democratic Organs. She noted that annual subventions to NDCs have increased significantly—from $5 million to $30 million—while municipalities are now receiving $50 million annually, up from $18 million.
In addition to increased financial support, the government has also equipped NDCs with essential tools and machinery, including excavators, fogging machines, and soon, compactor garbage trucks to improve waste management. NDCs have also been outfitted with firefighting pickups, and staff have been trained to serve as auxiliary firefighters.

Region Six Chairman, David Armogan, who also addressed the gathering, praised the pace of infrastructural development in the region in recent years. He stressed the important role of the NDC in ensuring these improvements are sustained and that communities continue to thrive.

Other officials attending the commissioning ceremony included Regional Vice Chairman, Zamal Hussain; Regional Executive Officer, Narendra Persaud; Chief Regional Development Officer, Deolall Ruplall, and Principal Regional Development Officer, Surendra Khayyam. They were joined by NDC members, residents, and pupils from nearby primary schools.

The new NDC office is part of the government’s broader push to empower local governance bodies and ensure they are equipped to meet the growing needs of their constituencies.