Georgetown: The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development on Friday handed over the approved budgets for eight of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in Region Five, Mahaica-Berbice.
The brief ceremony was held at the Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) boardroom. At the ceremony Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Norman Whittaker presented the representatives of Woodlands/Farm, Hamlet/Chance, Mahaicony/Abary, Profit/Rising Sun, Union/Naarstigheid, Woodlands/Bel Air, Zeelust / Rosignol and Blairmont/Gelderland with their 2015 budgets after they were reviewed and approved by the ministry.
Speaking to the gathering, Minister Whittaker pointed out that the ministry will be considering an increase in their annual subvention; however this depends on their performance. He urged the representatives to work harder and ensure that more taxes are collected.
He added that staff should report to work on time as it is often noted that lateness is a recurring problem and is also a major contributor to late collection of taxes. Further, he urged them to come up with ideas to encourage persons to pay their taxes such as creating payment plans and striking deals to allow persons to pay the outstanding amounts in parts. Other issues discussed by the minister include that of funds for maintenance. He called on the representatives to take good care of the brush cutters among other tools and equipment that have been provided to the NDCs.
The staff of the various NDCs was also given the opportunity to raise concerns and seek clarification on issues. Also present at the ceremony was Region Five Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth among other representatives of the Regional administration.
