‘TT, support the disabled!’

THE EDITOR: I am amazed that the protest being carried on outside the National Flour Mills on Wrightson Road has been given so little publicity and has got so little attention from the general public. This group of handicapped people are very courageous. They are not asking for a handout (as is being done by so many able-bodied members of the community). They are only asking that they be given the opportunity to work and earn an honest living. It is high time that the government and members of the public and private sectors become more aware of the needs of the disabled. I am, therefore, appealing to the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturing Association, The Chambers of Commerce, both in the north and south, members of Amchan, and the many public and private companies, government offices, hotels, shops etc to make an effort to look around, as I am sure that with a little adjustment and training someone with a disability can be given occupation. Because someone has a disability, it does not mean that they are retarded or unable to function mentally.

I have always admired Peake’s Industries in Cocorite for giving a number of persons confined to wheelchairs, jobs in their assembly plant, and I only wish that there were more people out there who would follow their example. Well done Peake’s, you are a beacon of hope and encouragement to the disabled. Come on Trinidad and Tobago, become more sensitive to the needs of the less fortunate members of our community and come out in support of these people.

J G MAC LEAN
Goodwood Heights
Diego Martin