Kamla: Protect our mothers, our daughters, and all citizens

As we celebrate another Mother’s Day in the midst of a pandemic, we cannot overlook the important and necessary role the mothers of our nation play in the family, community and in our national development.

This Mother’s Day we are faced with a worrying increase in infections and deaths from COVID-19. While we all have been affected by the health crisis, my heart goes out to those who must bear incomparable losses. Many mothers have lost sons and daughters, while others have lost their mothers or their spouses to this virus.

No doubt this pandemic has revealed what is truly important in this life. The gifts of love, family and friendship are priceless.

Our mothers give selflessly every day to protect their families, and this Mother’s Day, it is up to each of us to give back, and to ensure that she is protected.

We are a little over one year into this pandemic, and with no sign of slowing down, we must now be even more vigilant if we are to stop the spread of the virus. I applaud the hardworking medical staff at our nation’s health institutions, many of whom are mothers, for the incredible job they are doing despite the odds.

I am distressed, however, that for another year, many mothers and single parents are facing the additional stress of loss of income and support, as thousands of businesses have shut down. The Prime Minister announced further restrictions just two days ago, but we have heard little in terms of relief for the most vulnerable. While additional food support is needed, what is also needed is a clear and strategic plan for the coming months.

As both a mother and grandmother myself, I echo the sentiments of many when I say the Government must do better. We cannot simply do nothing and hope for the best. In this time of crisis, we need to think creatively and proactively about how to preserve both lives and livelihoods.

The United National Congress remains committed to its offer to assist and work with the Government in guiding our nation through this pandemic, in the best interest of the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

We may not be able to demonstrate our love in the usual way this year, but protecting our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, daughters, and all citizens of our nation is critical. Let us all do our part by following the health protocols and keep our families safe.

I wish all mothers a happy Mother’s Day. May God bless you and may God bless our nation.

We will get through this, together.

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP
Leader of the Opposition

9th May, 2021