Not freeness but volunteerism says Sando Mayor

Ragoonanan of the Congress of the People (COP) aired his concerns just as Hosein was in full flight reporting to council and spectators on the number of projects contractors were engaged in since PNM took over the SFCC in 2013.

Among the “free of charge” projects identified were the jersey barriers near Gulf City, road paving, construction of a homeless shelter, drop off center, beautification of the Harris Promenade and, Marabella Roundabout.

“Yes your Worship,” Ragoonanan intervened.

“I am very concerned about everything free of charge. I can’t understand that times when the economy is not of the best, contractors are crying out for money yet still....” But Hosein who would have none of it, ordered Ragoonanan to take his seat even as he stumbled through to try and finish his contribution.

Before Hosein could have said his piece, outgoing Councillor Shaka Joseph (Mon Repos/ Navet) rose to his feet, reminding Ragoonanan that “for five years, money was squandered left right and centre.” Joseph explained that contractors who had made money in the past were now prepared to give back to the country and made reference to a company (identified) in Port of Spain that had a stock pile of excess material and offered it to San Fernando.

He added: “If we in the city of San Fernando are finding ways to get donations from the business community for us to save money, I don’t know how a sitting councillor could come here and question that.” Joseph said there was no uproar when “they were giving out millions of dollars and millions of toys to children in Skinner Park and all over the country. Nobody questioned where the money coming from.” Jankie responded that all he did was ask a question.

Hosein remarked “the word is not freeness - is volunteerism” but Jankie advised him to check the dictionary for the meaning of freeness and volunteerism.