VETERANS WAIT FOR HOME

Charles who is the public relations officer (PRO) of the Trinidad and Tobago legion of the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League said the building which was scheduled for completion in 2004, is still not finished as promised by Minister of Works Colm Imbert. Charles referred to 1994 when the legion gave up what was their then headquarters at Independence Square, to make way for the construction of the Brian Lara Promenade. “ We still don’t have a home,” said Charles.

Charles said the delay is hindering the organisation’s progress which is usually known for its charitable work dedicated towards the care of ex -service men. Charles revealed the outcome of a meeting held six weeks ago between officials of the ministry and the legion which he said “just went around in circles.” Charles argued that to this day, no specific date was given by the ministry on whether the building would be completed and cited the legion’s frustration over the way they were being treated. Charles said the legion demanded answers from Government since the building which is located on Fifth Avenue, Barataria is a disgrace. Charles lamented that the building was blocked around by galvanise creating an eye sore to members who were embarrassed by its state.

Charles stated that after everything the war veterans had done-some of them even becoming injured while serving their country the least the Government could do was to finish the much needed building in recognition of their efforts. Charles stated that in the legion’s view, it was not as fortunate as the Ministry of National Security which already has a location whereby its annual memorial service is held. Charles complained that every year nationals wear an artificial red poppy flower in commemoration of the “lost” war veterans but still they are treated poorly by the Government of the same country which they served.