Homeless in parks a no-no

THE EDITOR: Ten years ago I drove some visitors to see the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Port of Spain. The homeless were many and visible in the square nearest to that cathedral. One of my guests said, “This is a bit troubling what I have seen here in Port of Spain.” Here we are, years after, still relating the same problem.

These homeless people like to be on the streets. They refuse to use the facilities built for them at Riverside Plaza, two minutes walk from Tamarind Square. No rules are in place to remove them if they return.

Tourists are warned about the high crime rate in TT even before they arrive. But not about the homeless and they are not going to be happy to stumble on them asleep in our public spaces. Neither am I. The entire world has homeless people, but the situation has to be managed by those in authority.

TT is in a recession and our economists are encouraging diversification. One suggestion is to move into tourism. This situation must have top priority for the welfare of all, and the impression that tourists will leave with.

We must be proud of our country and obey the rules. Sleeping and living in a park or on the street is a no-no.

PATRICIA BLADES via e-mail