Minister of Works and Transport Rohan Sinanan dismissed claims of inaction by his ministry in clearing watercourses amidst the dengue outbreak, stating that mosquitoes do not breed in rivers. This statement came during his visit to a renovated stretch of Manzanilla Road, where he addressed reporters on July 24.
Caroni East MP Dr Rishad Seecheran recently accused the ministries of Works and Local Government of negligence, claiming that requests for assistance in clearing clogged drains and overgrown watercourses had been ignored. He alleged that these neglected areas near residential neighborhoods were ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
In response, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh countered that mosquitoes primarily breed in household items like plant trays, guttering, and water barrels.
When asked about the allegations of failing to clean drains and river courses, Sinanan emphasized that his ministry had indeed cleared major rivers and water courses. He pointed out the substantial amount of work done over the past few years, highlighting that dengue prevention goes beyond just the ministries of Works and Local Government.
Sinanan emphasized that the dengue issue was not unique to Trinidad and Tobago but was a concern throughout the Caribbean. He criticized the Opposition for trying to shift the blame onto the ministries, stating that his work program was guided by his team of professionals and government policy, not by political noise.
Despite the accusations, Sinanan remained focused on his responsibilities and reiterated that the dengue problem stemmed from factors closer to home, like standing water around residential areas. He concluded by stating that laying blame on ministries was a diversion tactic by the Opposition, and he would continue to prioritize the government’s goals and directives.
