LEOPOLD Street, Georgetown residents will gain employment in block-making as the government enhances the quality of life for citizens, especially those in vulnerable neighbourhoods, and simultaneously expands its national housing drive.

The block-making initiative, which is in keeping with a commitment of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to residents, is being done through the Ministry of Housing and Water-Central Housing and Planning Authority’s (CHPA) Community-based Employment Stimulation Project (CESP).

On Tuesday evening, the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, and Chief Executive Officer of CHPA, Sherwyn Greaves, engaged the residents.

Deputy Director of Community Development, Mrs. Donell Bess-Bascom, and Deputy Director of Projects, Mr. Intakab Indarjeet were also a part of the engagement.

Minister Croal stated that the blocks would be supplied to contractors constructing homes under the Ministry’s housing programme, as he emphasised the importance of local labour and materials in the sector. Meanwhile, CEO Greaves stated that the agency will also work with the community to get people involved in home construction.

By the end of the meeting, the residents could identify a site for the block-making. CHPA is expected to start supplying tools for the project this week, and a follow-up meeting is also slated for the new week.

CESP was conceptualised by President Ali in 2021 to boost economic activity and job creation for people living in vulnerable areas or as part of vulnerable groups. The project scope includes start-up support, tools, transportation, block market sourcing, project management, and training, where necessary.