Education Ministry will improve
published: Thursday | October 2, 2003
THE EDITOR, Sir:
I WISH to respond to the articles that appeared in last week's Gleaner about the current condition of the Ministry of Education, Youth & Culture at Heroes' Circle.
I first want to point out that the building is not a new one. It was constructed many years ago. Many of the problems that we are now facing are as a result of improper maintenance over the years, which was largely due to a lack of funds. The Ministry recognises the seriousness of the conditions under which our employees work, and we are working diligently to improving them as soon as possible.
The building currently has no central air-conditioning unit, and we have been making the necessary arrangements to have this rectified immediately. Yes, the elevator is old, and the ministry is aware that it needs to be replaced. To have the switchboard replaced will cost approximately $22 million, but we are also negotiating to have this corrected as well.
The ministry is cognisant of the issues outlined in the respective articles, and we are sensitive to the needs of our employees. We appreciate constructive criticism, as well as suggestions on how we can improve and move forward in the right direction.
The Ministry will not turn a "blind eye" to these matters, and they will be resolved in a timely manner.
