– Minister Manickchand warns no room for delays
LOCAL Government Minister, Priya Manickchand, has warned contractors engaged to clean the Le Repentir Cemetery that failure to complete the works within the stipulated timeframe could result in penalties.
Manickchand issued the warning during an on-site meeting with the contractors on Thursday, stressing that those accepting Government contracts must be prepared to meet the responsibilities and standards attached to the works.
The contracts are expected to be signed within the next 48 to 72 hours, with the cleaning works to be completed within one week of signing.
The Minister said the project is intended to improve conditions for persons visiting the cemetery, noting that people who are already coping with the loss of loved ones should not have to contend with poor access and other difficulties when visiting their graves.
She urged contractors who are unable to meet the one-week deadline not to accept the works, while emphasising that timely execution would be a key requirement.
The contractors were also given specific instructions on how the work should be carried out. Debris generated during the cleaning process must not be burnt, with engineers expected to provide further guidance on its removal and disposal.
Existing trees are also to be preserved as far as practicable and properly maintained as part of the completed environment.
A team from the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is expected to identify and mark the respective lots, allowing each contractor to clearly understand the specific area assigned to them.
The contractors were selected from persons registered on the Government of Guyana’s National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) portal for small contracts. The system has already provided employment opportunities to more than 4,000 persons, according to the Ministry.
Manickchand said accountability and timely execution must remain central to the project, while contractors must also recognise the impact the improved cemetery environment will have on citizens who use the facility.
The engagement forms part of efforts to improve the condition and accessibility of Le Repentir Cemetery, one of Georgetown’s major burial grounds.
