Bolgatanga, Nov. 7, GNA - Mr Mark Woyongo, Upper East Regional Minister, has called on government to speed up the legislation compelling civil and public servants to at least work in deprived communities before being transferred to other places of choice. He noted that as a result of the absence of such compelling legislation, the three northern regions especially suffered in terms of human resource base, citing the health sector as one of the key areas that continuously suffered this unregulated practice. Mr Woyongo said this on Saturday to crown activities marking the 50th anniversary celebration of the Upper East Region. He indicated that the situation where the doctor patient ratio was one is to 32000 in the 21st century was appalling and something must be done to ensure that the people in the region enjoyed good healthcare. The Minister expressed the hope that the passage of the law would address the health and other relevant areas of government business in the region.

He indicated that 50 years of existence was no mean achievement as the region had seen significant change especially in infrastructural development.

Mr Woyongo said the essence of the celebration was therefore to market the area by highlighting its potential, fostering unity and promoting peaceful co-habitation among the people as well as recognize the contributions of individuals and institutions that played various roles to get the region to its present state. He noted that the region had benefited enormously from some infrastructural development during the celebration especially the educational and health sectors. He appealed to the people in the region to maintain peace and unity and said without these vital ingredients progress would be retarded.