She also distributed cheques for the second tranche of Home Improvement Grant to 11 people to complete the remedial works required for their homes.
In a speech at the handover ceremony she reiterated her government's commitment to finding shelter for all. She said as someone who grew up in Siparia she has always been aware of the problems people face in trying to get shelter.
"I know what it is like to deal with people in crisis, people in poverty, and people in need of decent accommodation," she said. "So I came to this job with some understanding of the problems at the local level. But I also came with a lot of desire to make a difference on the national level," Persad-Bissessar added.
She said the provision of adequate housing is a national issue and pledged that the People’s Partnership will focus on building on what works and on fostering partnerships with other levels of government and the private sector to effectively reduce and prevent homelessness.
"The provision of housing is much more than providing people with a roof over their head," Persad-Bissessar noted, adding that the focus must be on building communities and creating a feeling of belonging by providing a place to call home.
"Housing is a key part of our social support system as is much more that a safety net; it acts as a springboard, often lifting people out of disadvantage and poverty.
"The need for housing surrounds us every day, and this is why the provision of housing by the state must continue...
"My values, my Government’s values...are about ensuring we have a housing policy that actually works and that doesn’t let down families and individuals in need, because this is tied to economic and social participation, which are also priorities for us...
"We will explore every option available to us as to how we can make social housing a viable system into the future," the Prime Minister said.
She pledged that "the People’s Partnership is here for you, and we hold you in our hearts, in our minds and in our policy decisions and strategies."
Persad-Bissessar urged everyone to work for "the greater good, and our future."
She said, "There is much work to be done. I am asking you to walk with me on this journey."
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