At least three possible areas have been identified for the relocation of re-migrant Guyanese-Venezuelans who are currently squatting at Nonpareil on the East Coast of Demerara, Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix has said.
“Right now we are working on their relocation and we are finalising the areas identified for their location… we have two or three possible areas for their relocation and when the discussion is completed we will make the publications,” Felix told this newspaper on Friday.
Felix explained that upon agreement of the area for the location, they will move the re-migrants “who are identified as Guyanese or Venezuelans, once they maintain the current family structure.”
Stabroek News reported last Tuesday that approximately 26 persons, both adults and children, were squatting on the Nonpareil, East Coast Demerara foreshore, having taken up occupancy in four houses located there.
Their makeshift homes, constructed out of mainly discarded materials, were built within the last six months.
The Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP) had announced in a statement, that the National Multi-Sectoral Coordinating Committee was concerned by reports of the group infringing on the reserve.
Meanwhile, Major Kester Craig, Director General of the CDC, on Friday told this publication that the re-migrants have undergone medical screenings. Of the 23 persons screened, Craig explained that 15 were vaccinated for Hepatitis ‘B’ and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), among other diseases. He also noted that two pregnant mothers were referred to the Melanie Damishana Health Centre to join the neo-natal clinic.
Craig indicated further that the CDC was expected to return and distribute food supplies to the families.
On Tuesday, the families had told Stabroek News that they opted to reside on the reserve as they had no other option. The heads of the households indicated that it had been difficult to find jobs and provide for their families.
They noted that the little they earn from part-time jobs covered their grocery bill until the next job opportunity arises.
Five families were reported to have taken up squatting on the Nonpareil foreshore after fleeing from the crisis in neighbouring Venezuela.
