Stray-catchers on the move in Berbice

Jan 24, 2013 News

Stray-catching is in full swing in Berbice. Earlier this week, personnel from the ‘Official Stray-catchers’ (OSC) group were seen in the Port Mourant, Corentyne area. These are people employed by the Ministry of Home Affairs. This team that is currently working in Region Six comprises eight members including the leader, Mr. Hector Douglas.

A stray- catcher rounds up some cattle towards the pound.

This movement started last year February. Mr. Douglas said, “this initiative was implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs with the intention to keep our roads free from animals and less dangerous for commuters and pedestrians.”
Mr. Douglas said that while the team may not have strays to catch every day, normal procedures for working days are that the workers would gather themselves together and drive throughout the roadways in various villages.
Stray animals on the roads would be taken into custody and led to the nearest Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) or Police Pound.
A police officer from Albion Police Station said, “Owners of the impounded animals would be given a timeframe to reclaim them after paying a fee of $8,000 from which $5,000 goes to the Official Stray Catchers group and $3,000 is reserved for government revenue”.
However, if that period expires the animal becomes the property of the State and can be disposed of through public auction.
Cattle owners in Region Six should be the ones to ensure that their animals are fed and taken care of; rather than to be furious at officers and stray-catchers when actions are taken by the state.
Cattle roaming Berbice roads have been a continuous problem, causing numerous accidents and posing hazardous to motorists and even pedestrians. Motorists are urged to be extra vigilant on the roads.