“Late completion will attract penalties” – Manickchand to contractors

Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Priya Manickchand, has warned Le Repentir Cemetery contractors, that late completion of projects will attract penalties.
During an engagement on Friday with contractors, the minister made it clear that persons who accept government contracts must be prepared to fulfil the responsibilities attached to them.
Contractors were urged to recognize the impact this project will have on the everyday lives of citizens and to ensure that all works are completed within the stipulated timeframe and to the required standard.
It was also stressed that works are expected to be completed within one week of the signing of contracts, with signing anticipated within the next 48 to 72 hours.

Particular emphasis was placed on improving access for persons visiting loved ones, with Manickchand noting that persons already experiencing difficult circumstances should not have to navigate poor conditions simply to reach them.
Meanwhile the minister also provided clear guidance on the execution of the works.
According to her, no debris are to be burnt, with engineers expected to provide further instructions on its proper removal and disposal, existing trees are also to be preserved as far as possible and properly maintained as part of the completed environment.
In fact, a team from the Ministry is expected to be on the ground to clearly identify and mark the respective lots, ensuring each contractor understands the specific area for which they are responsible.
All contractors were selected from among persons registered on the Government of Guyana’s National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) portal for small contracts, joining more than 4,000 persons who have already secured employment opportunities through the system.
The minister reiterated that accountability, timely execution and consideration for the people who ultimately use these spaces must remain central to the delivery of the works.

Thomas St healthy streets initiative
Meanwhile, Manickchand visited Thomas Street, Georgetown project along with representatives of the King’s Foundation and Local Government Ministry officials to assess ongoing works on the first project being undertaken under President Irfaan Ali’s Healthy Streets Initiative.
The Thomas Street project, which extends from Lamaha Street to Church Street, was designed by the King’s Foundation in collaboration with the Government of Guyana and is part of efforts to improve Georgetown’s public spaces through healthier, greener, safer and more functional urban design. During the visit, the team examined the works completed to date and discussed the continued implementation of the project.
Manickchand expressed satisfaction with the progress being made as the transformation of the avenue advances.