After gaining some controversial attention, a decision has been made to relocate the Independence Flag Raising ceremony from the Stabroek Market Tarmac to D’Urban Park, a venue that can accommodate in excess of 30,000 persons. This is according to information released by the Government Information Agency.
It was revealed that Director of National Events, Lt. Colonel Godfrey Bess, met with various stakeholders on Monday at D’Urban Park to assess and address where the necessary preparatory works will be undertaken and to charter a way forward to ensure the soundness of the venue to host the 50+1 event.
The event that culminates with the hoisting of the flag and fireworks display was shifted from the Stabroek square and the Parade ground because of the likely inclement weather, and to ensure that there would be no disruptions of normal life and business in that area, as there was much preparatory works to be completed.
As a result of the change of venue from the Stabroek Square, the proposed cultural show featuring the Carifesta entrees at the National Cultural Centre and all other flag raising related activities will be hosted as part of the event at D’Urban Park.
This is in addition to the Regional flag raising events that will be hosted as planned and there would be ministerial representations in each of the 10 administrative regions for the regional flag raising programmes. The stakeholders in attendance at Monday’s meeting included Georgetown Mayor and City Council, Ministry of the Presidency, Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Ministry of Communities, the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, The Department of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Guyana Fire Service.
According to the Director of National Events, Lt Col. Bess, the ultimate objective is to ensure that the event is grand and as inclusive as possible. He noted too, that the event will be a showcase that includes Military, Para-Military and civilian involvement.