Govt’s enormous task: The Beetham Humpty Dumpty

THE EDITOR: I have sensed that there are already apologists who have taken upon themselves the task of pointing out that every resident of Beetham Gardens is “not bad” and that the area has produced the occasional “model citizen.”

However, be that as it may, there can be no doubt that the scale of the disturbances betray a substantial support for those who had set themselves the task of disobeying the law and creating havoc and trauma among motorists on the morning of November 23.

Needless to say, this is but the most recent event of this nature in this area — the “demonstration” of which seems to be having a “ripple” effect in other areas where many believe they have grievances of whatever kind. It is this danger that the country may be brought to its knees which demands of the authorities firm action in all areas (and I stress “all”) of law-breaking.

One recalls that the Beetham owes its name and existence to the following:

(1) It was” christened” in honour of the then last British-born governor, Sir Edward Beetham, who was held in very high esteem by Dr Eric Williams on account of his decision to recommend to the Colonial Office that the then nominated element in the Legislative Council be so arranged as to provide the PNM — the largest party after the 1956 general election — with a working majority.

(2) Taking a cue from what was thought was a similar situation in Singapore (where scavengers/residents of the dumping area had demanded not to be relocated), Williams decided to construct “for free,” for the residents of the Beetham, what were thought to be reasonably decent dwelling houses.

Needless to say, Williams was perhaps mistaken as to the cultural differences of the two peoples. Indeed, I venture to suggest that, having so thoughtfully and so eloquently bestowed to the country the national watchwords Discipline, Tolerance and Production, Williams may be, at this time, turning in his proverbial grave. “Discipline” has been thrown out of the window, ie, if it ever existed.

Nevertheless, I also venture to say that the blame for the occurrences at the Beetham rests at the feet of all our political parties whatever their political persuasion, for, let us face it, they have all been guilty of not having the laws of the country strictly enforced “without let or favour.” In fact, what else lay at the root of the following, inter alia:

(a) The recent absenteeism of immigration officers at Piarco International Airport.

(b) The somewhat regular action of trade unions in entreating their membership to take two days for “rest and reflection.”

(c) The lawlessness and discourtesy by drivers on our roads.

(d) The grave indiscipline and “bullying” in our schools at all levels.

(e) The wanton disregard for matters affecting the environment.

And the list goes on and on...

I believe that I am not far from observing that, given the history of the Beetham, “the chickens have come home to roost” and that Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and his Government are now faced with the monumental task of attempting to “put Humpty Dumpty together” once and for all.

Finally, I am of the view that, on no account, should the Prime Minister compromise himself by having, at this time, a meeting with any group purporting to be representative of the area.

ERROL OC CUPID, Trincity