G/Town Mayor wants centre for ‘social rejects’

Mayor of Georgetown Ubraj Narine has issued calls for government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and other stakeholders to work together to establish a “special unit” to assist social rejects within the city.

“We’re really in need to have the social rejects placed in a home where they can get treatment and better care so that they can be off the streets, so that they can have a proper environment where they can dwell,” Narine said during a press conference on Friday.

Narine noted that there have been numerous complaints of destitute persons threatening and interfering with persons as well as dumping garbage in the city.

He said there were incidents where these persons were arrested by the City Constabulary and were warned, however, due to them being of an unsound mind and homeless in some instances, those actions were in vain.

“The Mayor and City Council is ready to work with the ministry, NGOs, and other stakeholders to bring this issue to an end,” Narine said.

Currently, the night shelter is available for homeless persons to access hot meals and sleep at night. In June, 2022, the facility’s dorm was upgraded with new washroom facilities and 120 beds.

“The Night Shelter is here to ensure people are not out on the street … even if it is temporary so that you can have shelter, you have meals, and you have every bit of care that you need,” ​​Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud said had said at the opening of the new dorm.