Tobago Business Chamber boss wants sober look at TTPS executive’s performance
Tobago Correspondent
With crime remaining a top concern for the people of Tobago, the head of one of the island’s business chambers has called for the Police Service Commission (PSC) to break its silence on the performance of the TTPS leadership.
Tobago Business Chamber president Martin George called on citizens and the authorities to take a “sober, mature reflection” on what can be done to address the growing violence.
He warned that the time for complacency had passed. “We have to call a spade a spade. Our nation is being destroyed, and people cannot live in peace and safety,”
George said, “I call upon all of us to make that sober, mature reflection and consider what needs to be done. What changes need to be made. And if we assess performances, and find them wanting … then (changes) have to be made.”
Citing his experience as a former Police Service Commission members, he said the PSC has the authority to take decisive action when necessary.
He said during his nine years on the PolSC, he was a part of the decision to revoke the appointments of two commissioners due to concerns over their effectiveness.
For the year so far, Tobago has recorded 25 murders. George lamented the alarming levels of violence plaguing the nation.
“We are basically digging our own graves here in T&T. We are burying bodies by the hundreds as a result of the wanton and reckless killing of our citizens.”
However, chairman of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Tobago Division, Curtis Williams said his members still have faith in the TTPS.
“I know the Minister of National Security (Fitzgerald Hinds) and the police are working really hard.
“I want to see the police working with the community and the police working with them. They need to give the police the necessary resources they need. They must also include their working conditions,” he said.
Calls to Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher for a response went unanswered.
Meanwhile, people on the street in Tobago had mixed emotions about the crime situation.
Deborah Bayag said, “Many people think that Government could solve our problems. If we look to God, he will solve our problems.”
Godfrey Murray said, “When you look at society, it’s very hard because not everybody able to make ends meet. The youths on the streets not getting anything to do. They want a quick money.”
Aisha Alleyne felt young people are turning to crime because of few opportunities.