Someone stand up for George Street residents

Do these people have less rights than the average citizen in any other part of the country?

I ask this because it seems to me that even though these people have lived in these areas for over 50 years, the HDC formerly called the NHA can just say the word and "poof" just like that the residents of these areas have to go.

Is it fair that without consulting or negotiating someone who has lived all their lives in one community can be told that they would be relocated to areas such as Couva or Oropune or wherever the HDC decides without them having a choice in the matter?

We have heard the minister’s take on the matter, while I am in favour of development I am strongly against development that infringes on the basic rights of the poor people. When the Government decided to expand on the Diego Martin Highway there were dialogue and negotiations with the citizens involved. Unfortunately, as the saying goes there are really "different strokes for different folks," as this is not the case for those of George Street and environs.

The state and the HDC are acting as though these people are vagrants or prisoners who by the way also have rights. They want to relocate these people without even presenting them with a choice in the matter.

Are all the residents in this area known criminals?

They most certainly are not, as a matter of fact the majority of felons who set up office there live somewhere else. This is a known fact.

There are many residents who have spent money fixing and beautifying their homes, building cupboards, tiling and other basic renovations, are they to be compensated for their loss?

Are these people going to be guaranted a place in the new apartments at prices that they can afford? Where are all the civil rights champions? Where are the lawyers? Who will be the voice for those without a voice in society?

SHELDON THEOBALD

Port-of-Spain