M&CC gets $7.9M in essential items to fight COVID-19

The Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) on Wednesday donated over $7.9 million in essential items to the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to assist its efforts in alleviating the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The Department of Public Information (DPI) reported that PAHO/WHO Country Representative Dr William Adu-Krow said his office is pleased to lend support, particularly under such circumstances. The kind gesture, he noted, was realised following requests from the Public Health Minister and subsequently City Mayor Ubraj Narine.
Among the items donated were chemical respirators, rubberised boots, safety goggles, gloves, hand washing sinks, and mist blower SR420.
Several social distancing floor markers and vinyl posters, along with self-quarantine vinyl posters with COVID-19 message, and two billboards which were established at Stabroek and Bourda markets, were also donated to support the public awareness efforts.
At the handing over ceremony, held in the Council’s Chambers, Dr. Adu-Krow noted that “this is only the beginning” of the support for the municipality. He informed those present that the global health entity plans to build and strengthen its relationship with the City Council.
Dr Adu-Krow stressed it is essential for the City Council to be equipped with the necessary gear to tackle the virus, since a large majority of Guyanese traverse the City’s thoroughfares daily.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the M&CC, Mayor Ubraj Narine stated that the donation would assist the Council to expand its sanitisation efforts in several markets and public spaces within Georgetown.
Both the PAHO/WHO and M&CC continue to urge citizens to follow the guidelines initiated by the local health authorities in order to put a speedy end to the global pandemic.
Town Clerk Sherry Jerrick and Public Health Department Head Dr Suzette Reynolds were also present at the handing over ceremony.