Still awaiting gratuity and pension benefits

THE EDITOR: I address a persistent problem, I daresay a punishment, that hundreds of us have experienced over the years in this country.

I retired from the Police Service on November 24, 2016. At the stroke of midnight on the 23rd, my salary was cut very efficiently. As I write this letter on December 27 (774 days later) there is no commensurate efficiency to pay my gratuity and pension benefits. So three Christmases, three wedding anniversaries, and most probably three New Years I will be waiting.

I have been to the police pension department on numerous occasions in vain and getting the same response, “Your stuff isn’t ready.”

Many officers have been through the same procedure. Some have gotten through in quick time. It’s sad that some have had to pass money to get what’s legitimately theirs.

I’ve contacted Police Commissioner Gary Griffith and others with the same result.

Recently, the senior superintendent of the North Eastern Division contacted me to provide my expertise for free. I told him, “Sir, if you help me get my money I most certainly will help.” Needless to say I have not heard from him since.

My medical insurance has lapsed. My creditors are baying at my heels. My roof needs repairs. My refrigerator is running a snatty nose, and my van needs serious repairs as well.

To Finance Minister Colm Imbert I ask: how will I pay my property tax? To Transport Minister Rohan Sinanan I ask: how can I get my vehicle ready without money? Will you please give me a moratorium further than January 1, 2019?

To my MP Camille Robinson Regis, will you represent me and my case?

Is there any chance of me fighting this matter in court and winning? Can I get some pro bono help?

Too many times documents have gone missing at the Finance Branch of the Police Service under questionable circumstances. Can the commissioner put a stop to this? Gratuity and pension benefits should not exceed 60 days to be dealt with.

I doubt any members of the executive faces this nonsense.

I want to apply to Griffith for permission to protest on the pavement in front of the Police Administration building.

JOHN HENRY via e-mail