Solar panels, eye care programme, 50 black tanks for No. 47 & 58 residents

These interventions were announced on Sunday by President Dr Irfaan Ali and accompanying government ministers during an outreach to the region. The President told the residents that this assistance is to cushion the financial hardships they face due to climate change and other issues.

“I know the extreme dry weather is causing tremendous hardships on you in terms of water.

“While we work on long-term solutions to have more water storage capacity and capability, immediately, we will have 50 black tanks delivered to help. The second issue is with transportation, long before the end of this year, Minister [of Amerindian Affairs] Pauline Sukhai will return to deliver a bus,” the Head of State said.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill told the residents that the solar panels will be given to each household. He said this is part of several commitments dedicated to the development of the region.

“Every home will be getting a solar panel, 160 watts, today. They were delivered here last night,” Minister Edghill said.

Additionally, telemedicine services were recently introduced to the region and Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said another initiative will see the delivery of  free eye care. A dental team will also visit the village and work along with the residents.

President Ali said that the government will support the village Toshao with acquiring a wood blade for community members to use. Added to that, companies seeking a market to purchase lumber will be referred to the village. The village will also get a tractor with agricultural inputs.

These are all ways the government intends to ensure the economy in that area grows.

“We’re going to send the Ministry of Housing into the village to see how you can become a supplier of the housing project in Linden,” Dr Ali said.