Youths take charge of council meeting

SANGRE Grande Regional Corporation (SGRC) chairman Martin Terry Rondon yesterday praised a group of 11 youngsters who made up the corporation’s youth council in their contributions during the first ever sitting of its kind in this corporation.

Rondon told the young people they are the future of the country and the region, promising that they would not be left behind.

He said they had many more days to give their contributions at the corporation. “You have made history in this country with your views, concerns and suggestions,” Rondon said.

The chairman said they were the future politicians, councillors and aldermen to represent the people. The youngsters expressed their concerns for residents suffering because of poor roads and drainage and who have to endure flooding every rainy season.

Caroline Platta, junior councillor for Valencia suggested that speed bumps be placed in front of primary schools to prevent speeding and accidents involving children. She called for special roads to be built for trucks which were destroying the roads while carrying heavy loads.

Kristin Mark, youth councillor for Sangre Grande North/West urged the authorities to provide proper drainage and clean water courses. Her colleague Karlene Williams called for schools for children with special needs.

“Children with special needs are unable to function in a normal school environment. There are some special schools in the country, but most are private schools where the fees are exorbitant,” Williams said. Corporation CEO Diane Lackhan said she was most impressed with the youth councillors’ professionalism, knowledge and poise. In response to some concerns expressed, Lackhan said the corporation is working with the Education Ministry and other partners to assist children with special learning needs.

As to the poor roads and drainage, Lackhan said they had not yet received funding and the most they can do at present is to patch the roads at this time.