$1M each, building materials from Government, Private Sector given to bereaved Bonsika families

$1 million were handed over on Tuesday to the families of Joshua Samuels Gills and Tulsieram
Sookdeo, by Junior Public Works Deodat Indar, who recently suffered tragic losses. Sookdeo
recently lost his wife and daughter after their house collapsed, while Gill lost his home to a fire
on December, 30, 2021.
It was disclosed that Gill has a family of eight, while Sookdeo will now have to provide for his
two remaining children. Indar was accompanied by Chairman of the Private Sector Commission
(PSC) Paul Cheong and Region Three Chairman Sheik Ayube.
The minister related that the president having learnt of the incidents, instructed that immediate
interventions be made to help them rebuild their homes. Indar disclosed that he reached out to
the PSC,
Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal and his junior minister, Susan Rodrigues contributed
some $2 million worth of building materials to assist the families. Rodrigues said that the Gills
family received $1 million cash and over $1.2 million worth in construction materials. A quantity
of cement was also provided.
The PSC Chairman said the commission was happy to come on board. He urged the Gill family
to make the best of the donation, adding that it will help them to lead a comfortable life.
Meanwhile, Region Three Chairman Sheik Ayube, said the regional administration were on the
ground since the incidents occurred. He said following the fire and the house collapse, he visited
the area where an assessment was made. Clothing and household items were also donated to the
families. He said the regional administration will continue to work with the families to improve
their livelihood.
The families thanked the government, the private sector, and all persons who assisted them.
Among the private sector contributors are JR Ranch Inc, Bardon Construction services, S and D
construction, IB contracting, and Lheureuse  (LCSI) construction services.
Additionally, the Abdool family of Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, will also
benefit. Minister Indar committed to assisting the family in rebuilding their home.