Trinity Cross issue:

The Catholic Commission for Social Injustice has endorsed the recommendation of the de la Bastide Committee report that a full public debate on all the issues related to the Systems of National Awards and in particular the issue of the Trinity Cross should be arranged.

The statement comes in light of the decision announced last Friday by Prime Minister Patrick Manning in Parliament that Cabinet has acceded to organise a committee to “review all aspects of the nation’s highest Award and also examine such other national symbols and observances which may be considered discriminatory and make appropriate recommendations to Government.”

In a statement yesterday, the Commission emphasised the need for such a debate as crucial as the authority of the newly elected Cabinet Committee is “comprehensive and wide ranging.”

In a separate release yesterday however, Muslim group, ASJA suggested the creation of an award equal to the Trinity Cross that is acceptable to the non-Christian religions of Trinidad and Tobago and which satisfies “the inner feelings and religious convictions of all.”

They believe that the Trinity Cross should be kept as it is received by a majority of individuals of Trinidad and Tobago.

“While the Trinity Cross is objectionable to many, it is acceptable to a large section of the citizens of this land,” ASJA said.

ASJA said it bears no grudges towards believers of other religions but it is not acceptable that Muslims bear the symbol of the Cross and accept it although they accept the teachings of Jesus Christ and other Christian prophets according to their scripture.

ASJA expressed willingness to accept any new award that offers neutrality which they believe would encourage unity among the communities irrespective of their individual beliefs.