Registrar says no $100 fee but

THRONGS of people have been flocking to the Registrar General’s sub offices in San Fernando for birth certificates fearing that a $100 fee will take effect next month.

But Registrar General Susan Francois yesterday said the public’s anxiety over an increase was unfounded.

“There is no $100 for birth or death certificates,” said Francois.

The rush began last week, but only in the South offices on Leotaud Street, just off Cipero Street. Yesterday, an estimated 300 people gathered outside the offices. Some began assembling from as early as 5.30 am.

Tracy Satram told Newsday that she and her mother waited until 2 pm yesterday to gain entry into the offices, but to no avail.

“We hear people say we have to get it or next month we will have to pay $100,” Satram, of Barrackpore, said.

Satram and her mother left the offices at about 2 pm.

“We were not able to even reach close to the door,” said Satram.

Yesterday, people were seen with their children standing in the hot midday sun outside the offices. Security guards kept them at bay, only allowing one person at a time into the building.

Francois told Newsday yesterday, “Let me, despite our advertisements, put to rest these rumours. Persons are entitled to a free computer-generated certificate. Any additional certificate will cost $25.”

Francois reiterated that there will be no $100 charge for a birth or death certificate.