There is also a good side to URP

THE EDITOR: The relentless attacks on the URP cannot go unnoticed. It would appear that every attempt is being made to discredit this programme and to vilify those who participate in its activities. As a member of the San Juan/Laventille community, I have witnessed the URP particularly in recent times, making significant contributions to the development of my community and its people.  This programme is initiating useful developments, maintaining a sanitary environment and providing livelihood for many unemployed individuals and families within the area. Everywhere I go within and even outside of my community I have seen URP work in progress.

I have also observed groups of people under the URP building and repairing bridges, roads and drains throughout my area. I have witnessed URP workers diligently engaged in sanitation works in my community. I have seen groups of young people working with contractors to improve the physical conditions within my area. I have observed a transformed URP carrying out massive improvement works within my community. At the same time, I have observed the persistent attacks on the URP in the media as well as the incessant calls to close down this programme. There are also the well off people who have been calling on the Prime Minister to stop funding for the URP.

There is no concern for the more than 60,000 unemployed citizens who are provided with employment in the URP. There is also no concern for the 500 community contractors who now have the opportunity to contribute to the development of the infrastructure in their respective communities as well as provide additional jobs for the unemployed. The URP provides short-term livelihood for the most vulnerable members of our areas. In return, these workers are providing improved amenities and sanitation within our communities. Real people are doing real work. Not ghosts as is suggested by some in the media. The URP is now a productive and responsible programme.

It is amazing that the only voice that is heard in defense of this noble programme is that of the Minister of Local Government, Rennie Dumas. I can’t remember hearing the other Members of Parliament or official of the PNM defending this programme. Where are they? I hope the Government is not hoodwinked into closing down this programme. Mr Manning, as you put your final touches to the 2006 Budget, I hope you remember your loyal supporters in the URP programme.

TERRANCE DILLON
Laventille Road
San Juan