Minister of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock, Mr. Satydeow Sawh conducted a follow-up visit to Parika Back Dam, East Bank Essequibo, on Friday as part of the Government's current outreach to communities around the country.

He had visited Parika Back Dam last December when residents at a special meeting raised a number of issues that were affecting them.

The canal which irrigated the land for the farming community was clogged up and a mud dam was the only access in and out of the village.

Based on the issues raised, Sawh had made representation on behalf of the community to the relevant agencies and on his follow-up visit he was greeted by a large crowd of elated residents thanking the Minister for what they described as the prompt and efficient response by him.

The dam has already been graded and just the final touches are left to complete the road, while the canal has been cleared.

During the meeting that was held at the Parika Back Dam Primary School, Regional Chairman for Region Three (West Demerara/Essequibo Islands), Mr. Esau Dookie reflected on the achievements in the region.

Touching on the accomplishments in land development, drainage and irrigation, education and health sectors, he pointed out that the region has hundreds of villages and interior settlements and they are committed to ensuring every area is developed.

He appealed to residents of Region Three to appreciate the magnitude of the work, noting that all the areas cannot be developed simultaneously, considering the size and the resources available.

He gave the assurance that work will be done across the region.

Pointing to better results in the Secondary Schools Entrance Examination (SSEE) and the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC), he noted this was as a result of pumping more resources into the education sector.

Dookie added that seven remaining schools in need of rehabilitation in the region will be completed this year.

According to the Regional Chairman when this is completed all 127 schools in the region would have been rehabilitated.

Dookie challenged community members to form groups to access funding for further development within their location.

Sawh, who received a warm reception in the village, listened to their concerns and suggestions, clarified issues and informed them of the effect of the crime wave and the Government's position on a number of issues.

"Parika Back Dam you have a new look", he declared.

"I am heartened, to see quick results" he added.

He reminded the residents, that when he was last there they had raised several issues which he dealt with and now improvement is evident throughout the village.

During his address he lauded the members of the Guyana Police Force in their fight against crime. The minister noted that the Police are dedicated to their responsibilities and duties and they deserve credit and recognition.

Residents used the interaction session to express their gratitude to the minister and the Government for representing their needs efficiently and effectively.

Concerns raised by the residents included the need for electricity supply to the village, firearms for the community policing group, duty-free concessions for farmers and a recreation park.

Sawh promised to look into the issues raised by the residents.