[UPDATED] Penny, Young extend Mother's Day greetings

OPPOSITION Leader Pennelope Beckles-Robinson and former prime minister Stuart Young paid tribute to the nation's mothers on May 11.

In a Facebook post, Beckles-Robinson said, "Today, I reflect on my mum's warm embrace and endless compassion, I am reminded of the special place mothers hold in our hearts."

This day, she continued, serves as a poignant reminder to express our love and appreciation for them.

"It is also a time to care for our children and show them just how much they mean to us.

"For me, today marks 23 years since I began celebrating this day without my beloved mother, the cornerstone of our household. Her dedication to capturing our family portraits each year reflected her immense love; she always ensured my siblings and I looked our best for those cherished moments."

In a subsequent statement, Beckles-Robinson said the PNM has dedicated itself to improving the lives of mothers and families through building healthcare systems, expanding access to education and creating opportunities for economic empowerment.

She added the PNM did this so no mother has to face her struggles alone.

From the days of Dr Eric Williams and his “kitchen cabinet” to today, Beckles-Robinson continued, the PNM have upheld the belief that when mothers are supported and empowered, the nation is strengthened.

"We know that when our nation’s mothers thrive, our entire nation stands a better chance of flourishing."

Beckles-Robinson promised as opposition leader to champion "a society where mothers are protected, supported and given opportunities to thrive."

She said, "Be assured that the parliamentary arm of the PNM and our party, remain committed to you, to honouring your fundamental rights, and to ensuring that Trinidad and Tobago grows, heals, and thrives."

Beckles underscored the importance of safeguarding the health and future of mothers and children through the Pan American Health Organization’s 2025 project to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B in the Caribbean—including in TT.

"This initiative is a powerful example of the kind of long-term investment that our country must continue to make if we are to truly support mothers at every stage of life."

Beckles-Robinson told mothers a grateful opposition and a grateful nation thank them for their love, tenacity and patriotism.

"You are the lights along our path to great nationhood."

In a separate post, Young said, "Mothers are the strength that hold families together, selflessly giving and ensuring the well being of all."

The Port of Spain North/St Ann's West MP added, "We celebrate our mothers and their unconditional love, sacrifices and support.

"I take the opportunity to publicly express my eternal gratitude to my mum for all that she has done for my family and for me and all that she continues to do. Thank you mum. I love you."

In a statement on May 11, the PNM said it celebrated the invaluable contribution of mothers everywhere.

"We are forever grateful for your love, sacrifice and devotion. Thank you for all the amazing things that you do today and always."

This story has been updated to include additional details. See original post below.

OPPOSITION Leader Pennelope Beckles-Robinson and former prime minister Stuart Young paid tribute to the nation's mothers on May 11.

In a Facebook post, Beckles-Robinson said, "Today, I reflect on my mum's warm embrace and endless compassion, I am reminded of the special place mothers hold in our hearts."

This day, she continued, serves as a poignant reminder to express our love and appreciation for them.

"It is also a time to care for our children and show them just how much they mean to us.

"For me, today marks 23 years since I began celebrating this day without my beloved mother, the cornerstone of our household. Her dedication to capturing our family portraits each year reflected her immense love; she always ensured my siblings and I looked our best for those cherished moments."

She thanked all mothers in Trinidad and Tobago for their "unwavering love, care, and guidance."

In a separate post, Young said, "Mothers are the strength that hold families together, selflessly giving and ensuring the well being of all.'

The Port of Spain North/St Ann's West MP added, "We celebrate our mothers and their unconditional love, sacrifices and support.

"I take the opportunity to publicly express my eternal gratitude to my mum for all that she has done for my family and for me and all that she continues to do. Thank you mum. I love you."

In a statement on May 11, the PNM said it celebrated the invaluable contribution of mothers everywhere.

"We are forever grateful for your love, sacrifice and devotion. Thank you for all the amazing things that you do today and always."