THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) on Monday returned a refurbished mini-excavator to the administration of Region One (Barima/Waini).

According to a release from the MPI, after years of being out of order, the mini excavator was returned to Region One following rehabilitative works. Last year, the region had requested the Ministry’s assistance in rehabilitating the equipment after it stopped working just after a month of use. The excavator had been a gift to the region from the former administration.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, said that the refurbished excavator signalled the Ministry’s intention to keep delivering on its promises.

Minister Ferguson noted the importance of delivering the good life to the citizens of Guyana as she committed to having the MPI closely with the Regional Administration to ensure the improvement of infrastructure within the region. She further noted works to be executed within the region by MPI, including the rehabilitation of the Moruca Bridge and continuance of road works in Port Kaituma and the Matthews Ridge area.

“This is about us working together towards the development of this beautiful country. In 2018, we look forward to partnering with you in Region One to ensure that we bring the good life for all Guyana,” Minister Ferguson emphasised.

Minister Ferguson urged the regional administration to conduct regular maintenance on the machinery to maximise on its usefulness. Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, who was present at the simple event, expressed appreciation to the MPI for stepping up to the plate to aid the region.

“We have to realise that this is not politics; as leaders of the country, we have to work together to ensure that people benefit in all forms so that this good life would be an opportunity for all,” Minister Garrido-Lowe said, noting that, “everyone deserves a good life and as elected leaders, it is our duty to ensure they enjoy it.”

Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley, expressed similar sentiments and emphasised his administration’s commitment to collaborating with both ministries in the interest of the people and development. “I think this is a very good sign of cooperation and partnership between Central Government and the Regional Democratic Council of the Barima-Waini Region,” he said, adding his gratitude for MPI’s intervention.

The works to ensure the excavator’s serviceability were done to the tune of $5.2M and included the repair of the track chain; replacement of the hydraulic rams, cab glass, and track pads; servicing of the entire hydraulic system; re-fabrication of the battery compartment; and general servicing. While the excavator is expected to service the entire region, it will be primarily based in Port Kaituma.

According to Margaret Lambert, Chairperson of the Matthews Ridge/Arakaka and Port Kaituma NDC, the excavator will play a significant role in realising the NDC’s smaller infrastructural projects, particularly its drainage projects.