Give Jack his Jacket

May 28, 2023 Letters

Dear Editor,

Kaieteur News – It is time for Jack to wear his Jacket. Our Ministers must not assume the role of building inspectors when conveniently looking to score political points and then run away when the buildings are not properly built. Yes, there is a lot to be improved, but most importantly we need to ensure that when an inspection occurs and a violation is found which puts the lives of the occupants at risk that immediate corrective action is taken. If not, then the facility should be closed. The press has reported that the dormitory had failed a fire inspection twice yet it was allowed to still be used as is.

Only the Ministry of Home Affairs can explain why this was allowed. New bids have been put forward for teachers’ quarters in the same region and the government knows that changes are still pending in the packet to ensure improved fire safety and fire suppression in the construction of the quarters. The expectation of all citizens is that our government will react quickly to what we have learned from this recent tragedy. A COI is helpful, but the obvious dangers and there corresponding risks have immediate solutions which can and must be implemented.

What prevents an inconsistent standard at the local level is the establishment of national standards and regulations by the Ministries which are respected and effectively enforced. Effective implementation is in the hands of the local government, but gaps / problem areas can be quickly identified with the use of the inspection, compliance and review process. Unfortunately, there was a failure of ensuring compliance in this case. We must as a nation put safety first and make it the top priority in all of our undertakings. The government must act quickly to prevent this from reoccurring and must raise the level of public safety across sectors and improve the effectiveness of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Sincerely,
Mr. Jamil Changlee
Chairman
The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana

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