News

Housing Ministry to introduce whistleblower policy

February 20, 2019 12:45 pm

The Housing Ministry will introduce a whistle-blower policy where the public can report on those who are pretending to be squatter dwellers.

This comes as the Ministry has identified several cases where people with good financial status are squatting illegally in various settlements.

Minister responsible, Premila Kumar says they will be investigating this issue soon and talks of rewards for whistle-blowers is also in the pipeline.

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She stresses that the Government is committed to helping those who genuinely need assistance.

“We want the genuine people who really can’t afford – that’s where the government needs to assist them but not people who can look after themselves. Why should taxpayers money go towards providing them land or house? I just don’t see the logic here.”

The Minster reveals that some people living in squatter settlements own lavish businesses and properties that are put out on rent.

Some had built houses within the squatter communities and rented out rooms to the public as well.