– $1.5M spent in food supplies
GOVERNMENT, in its continuing and committed effort to monitor the current extended La Nina period that is affecting livelihood in the hinterland regions, has dispatched a variety of food stuff to aid the residents of North and South Pakaraimas in Region Nine, which has been waterlogged for almost six weeks.
The Government Infromation Agency (GINA) said this effort is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, in collaboration with the Amerindian Affairs Ministry.
The relief effort is being spearheaded by Ministers of Local Government and Regional Development and Amerindian Affairs, Kellawan Lall and Pauline Sukhai respectively.

At a simple handing over ceremony at the Amerindian Hostel at Princes Street, Georgetown, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Mr. Kellawan Lall said this is the first response as some communities are facing difficulties, particularly as it relates to agriculture.
The Local Government Minister  said it is unfortunate that this situation has arisen during a time when Amerindian communities are celebrating their heritage.

However, Amerindian Affairs Minister Ms. Pauline Sukhai  has assured that even though current wet conditions may put a damper on the celebrations, it will not hinder the activities in any significant way.
The two Ministers will be visiting the affected communities in the coming week to assess the situation and to determine what other forms of assistance could be rendered.
The food items that were sent yesterday included rice, sugar, salt, tomato sauce, and flour and amounted to $1.5M.
According to GINA, Government’s overall relief effort since the El Nino period goes beyond $43M.
Minister Sukhai noted that the residents were already affected by the prolonged dry spell earlier in the year (El Nino) and that the current heavy rainfall has now added to their discomfort.
Minister Sukhai has already had discussions with Community Development Officers of the various regions to plot the way forward in assisting the affected villages.
Additionally, the Agriculture Ministry will be providing assistance to revitalise farming in the affected communities.