Joint visit confirms renewed squatting on CJIA & State lands

SEVERAL squatter farmers have been advised to discontinue farming on Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and state lands. And failure to comply will see action being taken to bring to an end this practice.

Squatter farmers have promised to discontinue occupying CJIA and state lands

This advice was issued during a joint visit on Friday when officials from the CJIA, the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force toured a section of the lands.

Prior to the ground tour, a flyover was done by CJIA officials to ascertain the extent of the illegal practice.

A particular squatter whose activities are close to compromising army facilities in the area was cautioned to stop. This squatter admitted to not having any lease or permit for the land he is occupying, but promised to stop all operations and undertook to heed the advice he was given. Three other squatters who are operating in the area also promised to comply with the request.

Meanwhile, follow-up visits will be continuous to ensure that the advice is adhered to.

A GDF soldier at a squatter’s farm

Over the past five years, CJIA and the Ministry of Public Works have actively engaged squatters and farmers on their illegal occupancy of lands which are crucial for the airport expansion project.

A committee, chaired by Robeson Benn, the Minister of Public Works, was established in 2013 to review and pursue options for squatter relocation.

Squatting activity has occurred extensively on CJIA lands, including the land required for the runway extension now underway.