“Operations Safe Parks” initiative benefits from security vehicles

Dec 02, 2012 News

The Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment received two vehicles to enhance security measures at the Botanical Gardens and the National Park.
Managing Director of G-Star Mining and Exploration Company, Mr. Azeem Baksh made the presentation to the Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud.

Mr. Azeem Baksh (left) presents Minister Robert Persaud with the keys for two security vehicles. Also in photo are Yolanda Vasconcellos and Mr. Joslyn McKenzie.

Minister Persaud stated that the initiative is part of a larger effort by the Ministry under its “Operations Safe Parks” initiative to improve urban parks and recreational spaces, and provide quality services and a safe visitor experience for visitors and tourists. It is expected that patrols will be increased and at the same time, logistics will improve for management of the National Parks.
The Ministry through the National Parks Commission (NPC), which is in a state of transition to be managed by the Protected Areas Commission, is working to develop and implement a long-term security strategy that will focus on all of the areas under its management, including the Botanical Gardens and Guyana Zoo, he said.
The Minister also welcomed the timely donation from Mr. Baksh and his company and at the same time called on corporate Guyana to follow suit in contributing and making a difference for a safe and environmentally-friendly Guyana.
Meanwhile, Mr. Baksh urged that the NPC utilize the vehicles to increase monitoring and management of the National Park. He mentioned that the vehicles are geared toward making the park safer for all users, since he and his family, among numerous Guyanese, are frequent users of the park.
Also present were Mr. Joslyn McKenzie, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, Ms. Yolanda Vasconcellos, General Manager, National Parks Commission, Mr. Soren Griffith, Deputy General Manager and other stakeholders.