We need your support, Mr Williams

THE EDITOR: Please allow me a little space in this column to offer an open letter to the Parliamentary Representative for Port-of-Spain South, Eric Williams. I view this as important in light of the numerous incidents of gun-related murders, gang wars, poverty and social displacement that have engulfed this district.

So I write:
Dear Mr Williams, As the Parliamentary Representative I call on you to be more sensitive, people-oriented and humane to address the plight of constituents. To date most of the promises made and legitimate expectations of residents have not been touched. I am making this appeal on behalf of the little children, senior citizens and female single parents. Most of the projects implemented so far have been the direct initiatives of concerned community members. They include the annual senior citizens’ luncheon and hamper distribution, the annual Christmas treat for 700 dependents and the emancipation literacy and cultural project from which winners are given a starter account via Republic Bank. As you are aware none of the above was supported by your good self last year.

Nonetheless, I feel that as parliamentary representative you have a crucial role to play. Support for current and future efforts are important if east Port-of-Spain is to move out of its present predicament. We still have the following projects to materialise - the continual guidance programme to facilitate six to 13-year-olds with home lessons, computer access, the day care and preparatory school facility, and the senior citizen centre. It is my hope and that of the community that you will pay particular attention to these community-driven efforts. I recall your famous statement “Provide Hope.” This is exactly what these projects are intended to do.

We hope that these will not fall flat as your proposed “peace walk” and exposing youths to vocational skills have training, that have not materialised. People like myself are still embarrassed from the constant inquiries by troubled young adults concerning your long-ago promises. Remember what is said about “fools and promises”. Port-of-Spain South would like to move beyond the promise stage. We want action, empowerment and a better quality of life.

In closing, let me sincerely hope that this letter will serve as a wake-up call to your good self. As a supporter of the PNM and Chairman of a party group I cannot but express the reality of our situation. I feel that South Port-of-Spain must remain a strong PNM constituency. I also hope that my party group will be allowed to use the constituency office for some of its activities.
Respectfully Yours,

RONALD  TIMOTHY
Chairman South East Port-of-Spain Achievement Community Activist Group