Pres. Ali engages Aishalton residents in late-night meeting with focus on development

President Dr. Irfaan Ali assured residents of Aishalton, in the Deep South area of Region Nine (Upper Takutu- Upper Essequibo), that the government will address their concerns as part of plans to push development in the entire region.

The Head of State is on a three-day visit to the region, alongside a team of government officials.

Though well into the night, numerous Aishalton residents raised their concerns with Dr. Ali. As he listened to those concerns, he assured them that the government intends to bring many programmes to their community and the wider region.

Earlier in the day, he announced that 2,000 temporary jobs will be provided to Region Nine residents as the government attempts to cushion the high cost of living. He also announced $600 million in direct housing relief for 600 new homebuilders.

But aside from that, the President told the Rupununians that the government has longer term plans for the region.

“We want the people of the region to benefit from the opportunities right in the region,” the President said.

According to him, residents must not feel the need to leave the hinterland to secure opportunities on the coastland. As such, he said that the government is hoping to improve the facilities available in the region and also provide better opportunities for people.

Among the plans for longer term development are training for all teachers and better paying public service jobs. He also said that the government will work alongside all communities to expand food production efforts, as part of the wider national plan to slash costly food imports and become more self- sufficient.

And the President affirmed, “We are not going to shy away from making the critical investments that are required.”