President, Ministers attend Region Three's Christmas Tree light up

His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, his family and Ministers of Government attended the Region Three Christmas Tree Light up this evening at Vreed-en-Hoop.

His Excellency wished those in attendance a season that is filled with joy, happiness and good health.

He said that at this time, Guyana not only embarks on the celebration of Christmas but will reflect on the accomplishments during the year and set new targets for the future.

He told residents that they must be proud as Guyanese that the nation was able to see democracy prevail which was due to the hope and aspiration of the Guyanese people for a better life.

The President added that the hope that has been inspired has motivated all of Guyana to ensure that a brighter future is realized.

"In this brighter future, all Guyanese will have a place whereby every Region and community will benefit from development with better health care, education, jobs and tremendous private sector investment," Dr. Ali remarked.

On the topic of education delivery during this time as the country deals with the COVID-19 pandemic, His Excellency asked parents to ensure that the children connect to learning, whether through e-learning or worksheets that the Ministry of Education has produced.

Moreover, he said that due to the need to follow the COVID-19 protocols, Guyanese will not be partaking in the usual celebrations. He said that despite this, the current situation will bring families together which will result in stronger families that will produce stronger communities. On behalf of his family and the Government of Guyana, the President wished everyone a happy and safe Christmas.

The Honourable Minister of Education Priya Manickchand while giving brief remarks said that Christmas and the birth of Christ brought hope, love and the promise of redemption.

She said that the season provides the opportunity every year to renew in our minds and hearts how fortunate we are to understand and experience peace, love and the beauty of hope.

She said that hope in Region Three is represented by so many examples especially in its young people who are rising to the top.

Referring to the country's current President and First Lady, Minister Manickchand said that they are the youngest in Guyana's history to be in their position, both of whom are from Region Three.

Also, she said that the Regional Health Officer, Dr. Erica Forte and Dr. Tandika Smith, Member of Parliament both young persons doing great things coming from the Region.

Minister Manickchand said that Guyanese are living history in a beautiful Guyana that is unfolding.

She said that the Region and the rest of the country is beginning the Christmas Season at a time when love and neighbourly responsibility is important than ever.

Also present at the event were Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar and Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues. Following the light up, children in attendance received gifts.