We reap what we sow

THE EDITOR: The protests which snarled traffic into Port of Spain, creating total gridlock, epitomises the failure of the Government on several levels.

The Police Commissioner stated that between 48 hours and two weeks notice must be given to the police before any public demonstrations or meetings can be held. This is according to the Summary Offences Act, Chapter 11:02, Section 109.

It seems that the residents of Morvant, East Port of Spain, Beetham, Belmont, Cocorite and Maloney Gardens did not get a copy of the act.

In less than 24 hours they were able to disrupt traffic on the Priority Bus Route, the Beetham Highway, the Eastern Main Road, the Western Main Road, Belmont Circular Road, and Lady Young Road.

History shows that anytime these residents decide to "act up," they are treated with kid gloves by the politicians.

It seems there is one law for the PNM strongholds and another law for everyone else.

Where was the police intelligence Monday and Tuesday? Did they not use their technology to intercept the "chatter" that was happening? Why did they not put things in place for Tuesday, given what happened on Monday?

But that same technology could be successfully used to help the police find the stolen cell phone of the son of the Finance Minister at Beetham Gardens in July 2018. The phone was found less than a week after it was taken.

Did the Government intervene and tell the police to "take it easy on the protesters" because this is an election year?

These demonstrations also show how easy it is to cut off all exits from Port of Spain in an emergency. This is very scary indeed.

When people want to follow what is happening in the US, it can lead to a breakdown of law and order.

The Government must act firmly and decisively to restore order across the country.

LINUS F DIDIER

Mt Hope