Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee has commended residents and the ‘B’ Division Community Policing Groups (CPGs) that collaborated on building and erecting the New Amsterdam Town Arch.
In his address on Saturday during the commissioning ceremony Rohee lauded the CPGs; saying that he is proud that while fulfilling their mandate to protect residents they still found time to participate in social and community activities. The arch was commissioned to celebrate the CPGs 34th anniversary as well as to commemorate Guyana’s 44th Independence anniversary a press release from the Government Information Agency (GINA) said. The CPGs initiated the project with help from various sponsors including the Guyana Telegraph and Telephone (GT&T) company, which contributed over $1.4M to the project.
The steel structure, painted blue, was erected at the entrance to the town. Rohee said as time goes by residents will appreciate the arch as it becomes part of the town’s history. He also suggested that decorative lights be placed on the arch to illuminate it at night, adding that it will attract children’s attention and encourage them to ask questions.
Director, University of Guyana, Tain Campus, Professor Daizal Samad who in his presentation spoke about the history of arches, said the structure signifies a way forward and what can be achieved if persons work together towards a common goal. Also, Chairman of the CPGs Narine Chattergoon said the arch is a landmark that is the product of a successful partnership between the group and the private sector. “The project reflects the ability, commitment, dedication and hard work to contribute positively to the social development of the community, as well as the country,” he said.
New Amsterdam Mayor Claude Henry offered his congratulations for work well done and vowed that the municipality will do its part to maintain and preserve it. Region Six Chairman Zulfikar Mustapha noted that the idea of building an arch in the town was innovative. He said central government will spend about $400M to build community roads in the region. So far the region has rehabilitated six roads in New Amsterdam and will continue to develop the county.
Additionally, GT&T’s Chief Financial Officer Yog Mahadeo said the structure will serve as a mark for future generations of the intentions to develop and honour the country. Mahadeo noted that the idea of putting up the arch was brilliant as it would be a mark of respect and honour for the forebears who have laid the groundwork for what Berbice is today.
He noted too that the Private Sector Commission of Guyana is proud to have played this role in the development of the county. Mahadeo also said that GT&T has been a part of Guyana’s heritage and history and will continue to further aid in building the country.
