Minister of Public Utilities Responds to Misleading Letter on Water Issues

Dear Editor,

I have read Mr. Norman Browne’s letter regarding the state of water in the Foulis area of East Coast Demerara. While I appreciate public discourse on national issues, I must emphasize that discussions should be fact-based and not aimed at misleading the public for political gain.

The challenges in Foulis do not result from government neglect or indifference. This area, known as “Foulis Unique Co-operative Society Ltd.,” operates as a registered housing society that manages its internal affairs, including its own infrastructure. Investigations have uncovered that 80% of the society’s members are still awaiting land titles, despite having made payments—an issue that lies within the management of the cooperative, not the government.

Mr. Browne’s characterization of the situation as 25 years of abandonment is misleading. The problems stem from longstanding internal issues within the cooperative structure.

Additionally, I remind Mr. Browne that his government did little to assist the residents of Foulis during their time in office. In contrast, under the current PPP/C administration, President Ali has invested significantly in the water sector, improving access to treated water for thousands. We have constructed multiple large treatment plants that benefit residents in areas such as New Cummings Lodge, Parika, La Parfaite Harmonie, Wales, Caledonia, Bachelor’s Adventure, and Onderneeming. Projects to build more treatment facilities and expand water coverage are currently underway.

Mr. Browne’s comments about poverty and government priorities offer a distorted view of the reality. It is regrettable that he misinterprets President Ali’s engagement with citizens in vulnerable communities as trivial. The President is committed to creating a united Guyana and is actively working toward this goal.

The notion that oil revenues are being hoarded or mismanaged is far from the truth. Our oil resources have been utilized for infrastructural improvements, housing development, new water systems, road and bridge construction, healthcare upgrades, and ensuring educational access for all. Guyana is prospering and will continue to do so under the PPP/C administration that prioritizes its citizens’ needs.

While public criticism is essential, spreading misinformation is not. The government remains dedicated to investing in every community, committed to building a Guyana where all citizens can share in the progress being achieved across our nation.

Sincerely,

Hon. Deodat Indar, M.P.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation