Dear Editor,
The recent statements made by the WIN Party in respect of the Amerindian Hostel in Georgetown contain inaccuracies and need clarification supported by verifiable information. I am writing to outline the factual status of the facility for public record, as an Amerindian Member of Parliament who engages both the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and the operations of the Hostel.
The Amerindian Hostel serves as a support facility for patients and travellers from hinterland regions accessing services in Georgetown. The conditions described by the WIN Party simply do not reflect the current operating conditions of the facility. Today, the Hostel boasts strengthened administrative systems, set guidelines, and enhanced comfort and security features. These were achieved under the PPP/C Government following years of deterioration under the previous APNU/AFC administration, in which senior members of the WIN Party served.
Enhancements undertaken include expanded accommodation capacity, improved sanitation infrastructure, upgraded kitchen services, increased security presence, and strengthened management oversight. These measures are aimed at ensuring safety, order, and at least a minimum acceptable standard of welfare for the Indigenous people depending on the facility. Assertions by the WIN Party do not align with these documented developments.
In addition, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs has also submitted a proposal to construct and equip a new, modern Amerindian Hostel in 2026 that will increase the capacity and enhance service delivery to hinterland residents. The planned facility aligns with the PPP/C Administration’s long-term policy direction on Indigenous development.
The WIN Party’s commentary does not take into account the wider investments being rolled out across the hinterland health sector. Upgrades of hospitals, health centres, maternity units, and telemedicine services throughout hinterland regions are being executed by the PPP/C Government. These investments fortify regional health systems and reduce the number of patients that will need to be referred to Georgetown, thereby lessening dependence on the Hostel’s capacity.
Statements by the WIN Party are not founded on fact. They do not refer to the enhancements that are taking place and the further developments that are planned. The engagements with patients and staff at the Hostel suggest that the operating environment is better under the oversight of the PPP/C Government.
The factual position remains as follows: the Amerindian Hostel currently operates an upgraded system; a proposed new facility is to be constructed; and hinterland health services have been undergoing continuous modernisation. Those improvements are not changed by politicised commentary.
The PPP/C Government will continue to implement policies and programmes in support of the Indigenous communities and ensuring consistent improvement in service delivery.