He said residents had to paddle great distances to reach neighbouring communities. The outboard engine will also be used as a means of improving communication with other communities, the Minister said. The Minister while in the area met with residents to discuss government continuous plan for development in their community. Minister DeSouza also took time off to visit the newly constructed primary school and the health outpost which he said is functioning effectively. Quebanna is an Amerindian community with a population of about 700 persons.
Residents earn a livelihood by mainly farming, fishing and logging.
This he said is vital because it will be required to conduct business and they would be eligible to vote in the upcoming March 19 General Elections. The Minister who was accompanied by Prime Minister, Sam Hinds, Minister of Local Government, Harripersaud Nokta and Regional Chairman, Mr. Norman Whittaker held meetings with the residents to update them about developments taking place in their communities and the Government s future plans and programmes to enhance the welfare of Amerindians. Minister DeSouza on his return to Georgetown said he is concerned about persons claiming ownership of private land. He noted that legal concession and demarcation of lands were granted to the community and the councils and not to individual persons. This is a nagging situation, he added.