Critical of the previous administration for withholding resources to develop the San Juan/Laventille Regional Corporation (SJLRC) chairman Anthony Roberts said, yesterday, despite the attacks on the corporation it managed to complete projects as well as other projects which are a work-in-progress.
Highlighting one issue where the corporation was “attacked,” Roberts said attempts were made to take possession of a building in the corporation. According to Roberts, the High Court ruled in favour of the corporation in the matter. He said: “One week ago, our corporation secured victory in the high courts of T&T against the previous government who attempted to seize a property vested in the corporation...we would have none of that.”
Roberts assured the burgesses of Barataria and Malick that the corporation would pursue the construction of library facilities on the site of the former Barataria market. He was delivering the feature address at the corporation’s 23rd anniversary celebrations which started with an interfaith service at the Matthias Anglican Church, Pashley Street, Laventille and a military parade on the promenade at the Croisee, San Juan.
Referring to the corporation’s accomplishments in the form of projects, he said the San Juan market is now officially opened and a municipal police post has been set up in the market so that patrons to the market can have a safe and secured place to shop.
“The acquisition of the Ackbarali carpark is nearing conclusion as we expect to obtain section five within months, which will allow the corporation to pursue and commence the construction of a multi-storey car park facility which will compliment the market and shopping facility we have just opened.”
However, street vending has partially been dealt with and is still an ongoing, he said. Roberts’ goal is to develop the Croisee into a modern town centre. For the future, he added: “It is our desire to acquire the adjacent properties to the Ackbarali car park to pursue further development.” Roberts said he was eager for reform of Local Government to be put in place.