Three grey hairs over noise pollution

THE EDITOR: I write in response to  Clyde Evanson of Diego Martin who has posed an interesting, almost philosophical question in Letters to the Editor. He asked “Is there not some law covering noise pollution?” Ah, Mr Evanson...better leave that well enough alone. It might be far less perplexing to ponder Darwin’s Theory. If there is an answer, it may rank as the world’s third most well kept secret, after Angostura Bitters’ recipe and Osama’s current whereabouts. As a result of my own continuous attempts to secure a response to the noise question, I now sport three grey hairs (with a fourth looming) and a sharpened cynicism concerning the EMA’s commitment towards producing a workable policy on the enforcement of noise pollution laws.

I wish all those suffering from the effects of noise the best of luck, for you surely need it. Recently the EMA’s CEO in a baffling “strategic” move that fooled no one, divulged my full name and address along with details of my noise complaint, to the public by means of a letter to the Editor. Such unprofessional conduct will serve only to discourage potential complainants. I hope this was not the intention behind the letter. The EMA’s CEO ought to realise that the proof of the pudding is in the tasting, and public organisations which are failing us should avoid pathetic attempts to justify their non-performance by attacking citizens who have real and verifiable concerns.

The public does not care one hoot about the CEO’s explananations. We would surely prefer to see results. Again I urge the EMA to commit resources for the purpose of public education about our environmental laws and the penalties which may be incurred. Surely this is worth far more than prize-giving ceremonies and media appearances of which the EMA seems so fond. As citizens of TT, we all support the enforcement of laws and policy which will eventually have positive impact on our country. Please EMA, do your part and earn the respect and support of your stakeholders.

A SANKAR
Attorney-at-Law