The Linden Town Council (LTC) has proposed a 50 per cent reduction in toll charges previously in effect in the town, following talks with the Government of Guyana over the cost of doing business in Linden.
The proposal emerged from a meeting between Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand, Minister of Finance Dr. Ashni Singh, Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and other government officials, and Linden Mayor Dominique Blair, Alister Wester, Town Clerk Lennox Gasper and Treasurer Audrey Nelson, as part of the Government’s commitment to accountability, improved service delivery and operational efficiency.
According to a joint statement issued after the meeting, the Government received strong representation from Lindeners and the private sector regarding the cost of conducting business in the town as a result of the toll charges.
The statement said it was established that the LTC’s audited financial statements are significantly in arrears, a matter it said would be corrected. An examination will be carried out to establish a clear understanding of the council’s revenue and expenditure, as the LTC was not in a position to pronounce on verifiable finances.
It was noted that a 50 per cent reduction in tolls would not negatively affect cash flow to the LTC nor place additional burdens on the private sector.
The Government said it is committed to reviewing the LTC’s proposal and to working towards a full and complete understanding of the council’s revenue and expenditure.
