Describing squatting as a Criminal Offense, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affair, Anil Nandlall has warned that the Government will have no other option, but to use coercive measures to remove squatters in a number of areas.
The Government has regularized a number of squatter settlements across the country in recent times. But the problem persists, with the Government making its frustration known.
Speaking during his Weekly Issues in the News Programme, Mr. Nandlall said public good continue to be hampered by squatting and government will now have a zero tolerance approach against squatting.
“At every cabinet outreach I go to, or most of my public engagement,in the communities across this country, squatting is a regular complaint raised and we can’t continue. Government will have to take steps and steps that are harsh or may appear harsh but the mate authorized by law, “Mr.Nandlall said.
Mr. Nandlall said squatting also prevents development of the communities, and contributes to flooding in some instances.
The Attorney General reminded of the Mocha squatters and how the law was enforced to remove them. He said no part of the law supports squatting
“Most importantly, when you squat, you will not receive the services, such as a utilities, GWI will not connect water as a matter of policy, because they will be aiding and abetting squatting, GPL ought not to connect electricity because they will be aiding and abetting the squatting,” the Attorney General said.
Nandall said he hopes that squatters will be discouraged from the practice because government will be firm against them.
“I speaking to you because I hope that the state does not have to use its coercive legal machinery to address the issue of squatting, so if you cooperate the Ministry of housing will cooperate with you and we will be able to accelerate your application for an house lot,” Nandlall said.
He appealed to the Regional Democratic Councils and the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils to use their powers by serving notices, take people to Court or demolish structures and encumbrances from public reserves, government reserves and state lands.
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