‘We will turn it around’

Hinds expressed his optimism at the annual “Christmas on the Hills” event at the St Barb’s Basketball Court yesterday. He told reporters that when the People’s National Movement (PNM) took office last year in September, the party knew it was on a sticky wicket and has faced some “hostile bowling” during the year that it has been in government.

However, Hinds said the PNM has since “settled into the wicket”, and is not playing any rash shots as it seeks to improve this country’s economic circumstances. He was confident that once all stakeholders join forces with the Government and every one does what they are supposed to do, “we will turn it around.” Hinds said neither the PNM nor the country are strangers to challenging economic times and he remains confident that under the guidance of the Dr Keith Rowley Administration, things will improve going forward.

Reminded of criticisms made by Princes Town MP Barry Padarath about MPs not being assisted by the Social Development Ministry to provide assistance to needy persons in their respective constituencies, Hinds told reporters, “We don’t look to the Government for everything.” He explained that yesterday’s event which was open to all of the children in Laventille was organised with help from community groups and members of the private sector.

Hinds said that notwithstanding the economic challenges which the country faces at this time, it was important for the children of Laventille to get the gift of love for Christmas. Noting the stigma which is often attributed to communities in the country like Laventille, Hinds said it is important to remind people there is a lot of good in these communities and he is all about the upliftment of people.

As he pointed out the presence of a fruit and vegetable booth which the TT Field Naturalists Club at the event, Hinds disclosed that he has been speaking with persons who are trying to promote hydroponics and other types of agriculture which can be done within communities like Laventille.

The minister said while many people think of Laventille as a concrete jungle, there is greenery in the community and this can be put to good use.

Approximately 1,200 children attended yesterday’s event which included storytelling, singing, dancing and other cultural performances.

There was also face painting for the children along with the appearances of popular characters such as the Incredible Hulk, Mickey and Minnie Mouse.