Latest update April 19th, 2024 12:59 AM
Sep 20, 2013 News
Public Works Minister Robeson Benn said yesterday that some 70 house lots are being sought for Timehri North residents in the immediate path of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion project.
The Minister was at the time clearing up misunderstands about the Timehri North residents having to go to the Ministry of Housing to apply for house lots.
The residents told Kaieteur News that at the first meeting the Public Works Minister had with residents, they were told that they would be acquiring house lots from the Housing Ministry. They said it was mentioned that residents would be moved in phases and those in close proximity of the airport would be the first set to be moved, since they directly affect the extension project.
It was mentioned however that visits to the Housing Ministry to ascertain the system under which they would receive the house lots, proved that nothing was in place for them.
Public Relations Officer for the Timehri North Development Council (TNDC) Sherlanda Daniels said that residents identified in phase one of the moving plan visited the Housing Ministry, but were told by housing workers that nothing was in place for the Timehri community and that there was no designated area for residents to apply.
Benn said yesterday that the housing process is being facilitated by the CJIA. He said that airport officials and the Public Works Ministry have already written to the Housing Ministry for 70 house lots which would be given to those persons immediately affecting the airport’s expansion.
Benn explained that the residents do not have to go to the Housing Ministry to receive the house lots but stated that they will be called in when locations have been ascertained. He mentioned that this is being determined based on the residents request as to where they prefer the house lots since some persons have requested land along the East Coast and other places, while some have opted for Yarrowkabra.
On the other hand, residents are adamant that Housing Minister Irfan Ali should meet with the community to tell them firsthand what plans are in store for them. While residents say that if it is absolutely necessary they will move, they are adamant that unless proper compensation is offered, they will not be removed.
Benn had stated firmly on other occasions that land would be provided for Timehri residents, but they had nothing more to get since they are “squatters” on airport property. The residents however pointed out that they developed Timehri and some have been living there all their lives.
They also highlighted their concern with the fact that despite organizing their community as they were asked to do in order to have the area regularized, this was never done.
The community has also argued that unfair treatment is being meted out to them since “squatters” in Khali road- also located in close proximity to the airport- have been regularized, while they (Timehri residents) are being forced to move.
The community also mentioned that persons displaced in Berbice as a result of the Berbice Bridge construction were compensated and they expect the same treatment.
Where is the BETTER MANAGEMENT/RENEGOTIATION OF THE OIL CONTRACTS you promised Jagdeo?
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