The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) yesterday prepared the Graham’s Hall Primary School as a shelter for displaced squatters from Success, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
A release from the Department of Public Information (DPI) said that the CDC noted that the “humanitarian crisis” of displaced residents requires immediate action to stem migratory and health issues, particularly during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips on Saturday met with the squatters and offered to provide shelter to those who have been impacted.
According to DPI, Director General Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig says those affected by the flooding at Success can immediately contact the National Emergency Management System (NEMS) on 226-1114, 623-1700 and 600-7500 and make their way to the Graham’s Hall Primary School, Cummings Lodge, ECD, where they will be housed.
Squatters have been in a weeks-long standoff with the police and government holding company NICIL over the land. Government has said that GuySuCo needs the land for the resumption of cane cultivation. In recent days, flooding of the land has begun to force the squatters out. Some have left but others remain defiant and said that they have no other place to go to. It is unclear how many will take up the offer of space at the school.
