Dear Editor,
I have been following the news in which Minister of Education Jorien Wuite met with representatives of the APS about their plans to develop affordable housing for civil servants, teachers and employees of government-related organizations.
This project is one that I hold very dear to my heart. I recall when the notarial deed for the commencement of this project was signed with APS on November 19, 2015, when I held the portfolio of Minister of VROMI.
A total of 48-60 homes was envisioned to be built on the Vorst property in Cay Hill. A total of 11,129 square metres of land was acquired by government and leased to the APS for the purpose of constructing affordable homes. The entire process was done in a very transparent manner, while the necessary due diligence was carried out.
The issue of housing has been the subject of discussion for governments of the past and this matter remains a top priority of our agendas today. It was regretful to learn however, that after leaving office in 2015, that the government at the time refused to execute the project simply because it was started during my tenure. An important project like this one should never be used as an instrument for petty politics.
It was always about providing affordable housing opportunities for middle income families, starters and returning young professionals; it was never about me.
I wish to take this opportunity to commend the APS and the current Government for following through with the project, which in the end will only serve to empower those who stand to benefit from their very own investment in the Pension fund.
Member of Parliament Claret Connor
