Health Minister meets hinterland residents on issues affecting their communities

On Friday last as part of a Ministerial Outreach to communities in Region One, Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran met with residents of Manawarin, Haimacabra and Waramuri in the Moruca sub-district where he gave a listening ear to the concerns of residents.
Among the issues discussed, were provision of more health care services, completion of the Manawarin road and a request for a school boat and NIS benefits.
Vice Chairman, Fermin Singh noted that the Region, through the Regional Education Office will look at providing them with one boat and engine.
Regarding the completion of the road works, Singh noted that the work should be completed before the end of the year.
While engaging the community, Minister Ramsaran brought to the fore the importance of money being spent for its intended purpose, particularly since the end of the year is approaching and funds that are not utilised in a timely manner are returned to the treasury. He was referring to projects including the purchase of a boat and outboard engine, farming tools and the construction of a landing and walkway. With regards to the boat and engine, the community’s Toshao reported that it is in good working condition and the money garnered from the boat’s use is utilised for continued development of the village.
He added that together the villagers are working on the construction of two bridges in the area. For the landing and walkway, the initial funds made available via the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs only covers the cost of materials, hence additional funds are needed for the execution of the project.
Minister Ramsaran outlined to the gathering that this year marks 20 years since the PPP/C government ascended to office and prior to 1992 there were a lot of challenges however; the situation is now vastly different.
The Minister acknowledged that the government encourages feedback from the grassroots regarding the roll out of its programmes. This aspect is evident in the hosting of the annual National Toshaos Council (NTC) meeting at which village leaders are given the opportunity to engage the Head of State and Cabinet members.
Minister Ramsaran highlighted that the government has placed on the front burner, the rights and involvement of the Indigenous peoples in decision making.

With regards to education, the minister highlighted that many Amerindian youths are performing well, when compared to youths on the coast and in this regard he commended the teachers and the village leaders. Regional leaders were also urged to ensure their schools are provided with the necessary resources such as teachers and materials so as to maintain outstanding performances.
Regional Health Officer, Dr. Nigel Langhorne indicated his pleasure with the feedback given by the residents particularly in the health sector which has significantly improved in Manawarin.  He noted that the Village Council, in recognition of the growing demands for health care has submitted three names of persons who will be receiving training to become Community Health Workers (CHW). This will increase the number of health workers in the village from two to five.  Dr. Langhorne acknowledged that while training is being made available, challenges arise when it is time for the workers to return to their communities to perform their duties.  He said that being in the health care field is not just a job but it is a form of humanitarianism.