PNC/R wants Govt. to help Nov. 13 fire victims
Guyana Chronicle
November 21, 2003
The People's National Congress Reform is calling on the Government of Guyana to come to the aid of those affected by the recent fire that destroyed three businesses, incurring an estimated billion dollars in losses and leaving at least 150 persons jobless.
Mr. Raphael Trotman, an executive member of the party, noted that the PNCR expects the Government to announce immediately the assistance to be given to the business owners as well as the numerous employees who are displaced at this time of year.
Mr. Trotman cited Government's assistance to the victims of the fire that destroyed 13 businesses in Pitt Street, New Amsterdam.
While reiterating sympathy to all those who suffered losses in the recent fire, he said it is unfair to blame the Guyana Fire Service for its role in this disaster when it is well known that the service is bereft of resources and more often than not lacks the support of other agencies whose role is critical to fire fighting.
He added that citizens from depressed communities have for some time been crying out at the destruction which comes about when the service is unable to protect them from fire damage because of inadequate tenders and empty hydrants and clogged drains. (Shirwin Campbell)