THE EDITOR: News of the tremendous support of Caricom countries to our neighbours in various forms following Hurricane Beryl is most welcome. The efforts of the combined chambers are likewise appreciated.
Yet in Parliament and a letter to the newspapers we see purely negatives. What seems simple enough, like the offer to welcome homeless children of school age during their holiday period, if they have family here who are willing to house them, elicits from MPs a series of questions, warnings, reference to reports of abuse at children's homes and the like.
Do they understand that our offer does not include to feed, house and transport them, and therefore does not place burdens of responsibility on the State? Queries abound about airfare or sea fare or complimentary trips, which may arise if needed, but even at a low or subsidised cost the latter may be considered as a means of assisting the parents.
What then are the positives and opportunities here? We can begin with conscience, where we gain satisfaction in a regional matter. Within more recent times Caricom has taken proactive and meaningful measures, like the food import cost reduction of 25 per cent by 2025, involving the people and their participation.
Since the MPs fail to see it, we can advise them about how the concept of the Galleons Passage making regular sailings between Grenada and TT could be a forerunner and supporter to the proposed south Caribbean seabridge to integrate the region.
This is objective thinking that eludes some parliamentarians.
All the same, we must be not purely critical of their queries where legitimate. They could use a reminder that respect is earned and expressions must be weighed before statements are made.
One rather disturbing and thoughtless comment was that some MPs are only "interested in food in Parliament." That brings disrespect.
We may, on the positive side, look at having these visiting children integrating and interacting with our children at regional centres of arts and education programmes during their time here. We should have tremendous support as we teach pan and other musical instruments, dance of varying types, agriculture, sports – all positive and beneficial.
Let us do even more to help these children to the benefit of the region. We do have various academies with competent personnel to deliver the varying curriculum. What is needed is the will and the goodwill of sponsors.
LENNOX SIRJUESINGH
Chaguanas
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