Govt engages EBD residents on relocation to facilitate major development projects

The government this morning met with a number of persons whose proprietary interests are likely to be affected by the corridor earmarked for the Guyana Power & Light (GPL) transmission lines from the Gas to Shore Generational Facility and the new East Bank Demerara Highway (Diamond to Soesdyke).

The engagement was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Addressing the over 200 residents were Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall and Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal as well as other officials.

“As we have always done, this process will scrupulously follow the law, will be fair as well as transparent. Every effort will be made to reach consensual positions,” Nandlall assured.

He further noted that, “every person is free to retain a lawyer of their choice and if they cannot afford to do so, the State will provide one for them.”

“Similarly, every person has a right to a valuation officer of their choice to advise them in the process. Every effort will be made to minimise the acquisition of private property,” he added.

In an invited comment to this publication, the Attorney General also assured that the government will offer fair market value as compensation to affected residents.