Gov’t Placing Focus on Urban Renewal

Minister with responsibility for Housing, Hon. Dr. Morais Guy, says the Government will be undertaking a “vigorous housing programme” in urban centres as part of a renewed emphasis on urban renewal.

Dr. Guy, who was making his contribution to the 2013/2014 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on May 21, said that much of the infrastructure in several communities in and around the urban centres have fallen into disrepair.

“Many houses have been abandoned and lands are not being adequately used for their optimum housing potential,” he stated.

He said that the Ministry will endeavour to bring renewed life to some of these areas through the housing initiative.

“Residents in these areas will once again realise an increased sense of pride in their communities,” he stated.

Dr. Guy stated that the Ministry in playing its part in fulfilling the well-articulated Vision 2030 goals, especially goal number four, which seeks to achieve sustainable urban and rural development.

“In furtherance of attaining global living standard goals for our people, this Government is forging ahead to also meet the target set out in Millennium Development Goal (MDG) seven, which stipulates achieving significant improvement in the lives of those residing in squatter settlements by 2020,” Dr. Guy said.

He noted that the Government is working to achieve the targets despite a challenging economic environment.