PPP/C government housing the nation … More than 600 house lots distributed in Region 5 |
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Wednesday, 05 December 2012 22:48 |
MORE than $400M has been invested in Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) as the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) continues to provide access to affordable housing to Guyanese across the country. The Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali, made this disclosure while addressing hundreds of Region 5 residents gathered at the Blairmont Community Centre, West Bank Berbice for the Ministry’s eighth “One Stop Shop” exercise for 2012, wherein 625 house lots were distributed. “This is the second such activity in this region, as we are seeking to provide adequate housing facilities to all Guyanese. Through these exercises, we are bringing you closer to the banking and construction sectors, engineers, and architects. In addition, you will be provided with the information necessary to construct your homes,” Minister Ali explained. The minister pointed to the magnitude of investments in the housing scheme in the Hope/Experiment area, which amounts to $161,334 per individual; and he urged the allotees to take advantage of the opportunity to move towards home ownership. Alluding to the level of subsidy provided by the government, and its importance, Ali said, “This investment reflects a subsidy rate of 43% of the total cost. We are…the only government subsidizing the housing programme, as we have committed to social development through investing in education, housing, health and water.” The administration recognizes that these are critical areas that need to be addressed in the drive to eradicate poverty, he added. As to efforts made by some politicians to discontinue transformative initiatives such as the housing programme, the minister reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that even more citizens will benefit. “It is the government’s responsibility to make these investments on your behalf, and to ensure that all of you own your own homes,” he declared. Minister Ali encouraged the new allottees to hastily move towards the construction process, and warned the residents against misrepresentation during the application process, as this is a criminal act which will be dealt with by the swift arm of the law. He cautioned, “There is a clause in the agreement that speaks to this. If you are found guilty of this in any way, we will repossess your lot, and the monies you would have paid will be forfeited. Be mindful that your actions are in keeping with
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