Politicians, it’s time to get serious!

Fri, Jan 25, 2013

Editor: I am a frequent visitor to your lovely island. While here, I rely on the newspapers and radio to keep me informed on what is happening. I wonder about some of the things I have read and heard.{{more}}

According to the articles and topics by the opposition, it would seem that the ruling party has done absolutely nothing correct and of value since they took office! Can this be true? Every time a project is announced, it seems the opposition has 1001 reasons why it is not good for the country, or the economy, why it won’t work or is highly impractical. Can this be a case of sour grapes?

At the same time, I read about the ruling party making light of some of the remarks and observations made by the opposition. Was it really necessary for the Honourable Prime Minister to talk for almost half an hour about whether the Honourable Leader of the Opposition was robust enough or not, and to try to convince the population that even the members of his own party were not sure of his competency? I fail to see what that had to do with the debate on the budget. Then again, when the same honourable gentleman had to retract some words, he did it (apparently) with a smile or a grin on his face. Makes me wonder how sincere he is in this and other things. Is this setting a right example for our young people, the leaders of tomorrow?

It seems to me that a lot of time is wasted discussing and arguing petty things, while there are so many more urgent matters to be discussed and decided. Is there no middle ground where these elected people can meet and make a decision to forget the past and move forward for the good of all the people of SVG? I am sure before the elections, they all promised to do their very best for the people, now they spend their time (and the people’s money – because they are being paid) arguing about petty inconsequential things. If the opposition was in power, would they not appreciate the help and expertise of the other members, for the benefit of all in SVG? Members of Government, prove your love for your country above self, and work together to continue building up this country. Set the right example and leave a good foundation for our children to continue building upon.

I also read with interest the story of the Chief Magistrate taking it upon herself to work overtime on the backlog of cases, and has been able to bring in quite some money into the treasury. (Over EC$39,000 in 6 days!) She is to be commended for this initiative and I sincerely hope, that in appreciation, the powers that be will give her at least 10% (if not more) of these collected fines and funds. I hope more people will follow her example and give of their time and experience to the good of the country, whether or not they get the recompense or recognition.

Esther Garcia