Our Readers' Opinions
September 25, 2012
Hell in Bullock’s Vale

Tue, Sept 25, 2012

Editor: I write this letter in utter disgust in relation to a situation which has caused immense discomfort and pain to many residents of the Bullock Vale area in Arnos Vale. I visited the area in the past few weeks and could hardly breathe, since there was an appalling smell in the area. On investigation, I realized that there was not only a fowl pen nearby, but to my disbelief, there was also a pig pen.{{more}}

After inquiring, I was told that the residents of the area had sent numerous letters stating their disapproval of these pens in this residential area. I further learnt that the gentleman responsible for this anguish asked permission from Planning to erect a sheep and goat farm. Planning subsequently gave notice in the papers stating that anyone with objection to the goat and sheep farm should state their disapproval. More than forty residents signed a document stating their disapproval, but the man continued building and now has not only goats and sheep, but pigs and chickens in the area. As I stated earlier, I visited the area recently and the stench is unbearable. Persons are prisoners in their own homes and even sleeping can be a challenge. Not only that, but even washing and hanging clothes is near impossible. I have just a few questions:
  • How can one man cause so much trouble for an entire community?
  • How could planning give the go ahead for such a project?
  • If they did not give permission, why is this man allowed to continue?
  • Why is the health department not doing more to stop the problem?

I am not a Vincentian and I am only visiting, but this could never happen in my country. These are the situations that lead to tragedy when people take the law into their own hands. Something has to be done about this situation and I find it necessary to write such a letter on behalf of these residents. The Prime Minister is known to be a well respected man across the Caribbean and I am amazed to see that he would allow such a situation to continue when he has been briefed about the matter. I call on the Prime Minister, Minister of Health, and all others who can do something about the situation to intervene. We need to be our brother’s keeper and these residents need to be free from this Hell In Bullock Vale, Arnos Vale.

Disgusted Visitor