Sir Ellis: Scouts can suppress crime

Former President Sir Ellis Clarke yesterday said the scouting movement can play a major role in the long term suppression and eventual elimination of crime that “bedevils” TT. Sir Ellis, who has had a long relationship with scouts and served as Chief Scout said if the principles of scouting were “ingra-ined” in people their psychological and mental attitude would be different “and our land will be what we once knew.” He offered his assistance in this regard. Sir Ellis made these remarks at the 92nd Annual General Meeting and presentation of awards at the first Trinidad Sea Scouts Headquarters, Cocorite, after he accepted a special award for his “sterling contribution” to Scouting.

Chairman of the Fina-ncial Committee Ruben Dash in giving the Audited Financial Statement of the Association announced that the Scouts will host a fundraising raffle to “wipe out” its over $108,000 deficit. Dash said the Scouts receive $10,000 from Government but the Ministry of Education provides assistance for projects. He said the Association is pleased with the Prime Minister’s Budget announcement of having a scout troop in every school since they have been trying to achieve this for a long time. Dash expressed the hope that this indicated the possibility of an increased subvention from Government. Newsday newspaper was among six recipients of awards receiving the Chief Scout’s commendation for specially good services. Medals of merit, national trophy awards, and long service awards were also presented.