Oropouche West MP: The PNM continues to neglect Trinidad and Tobago’s Future

The Member of Parliament for Oropouche West, Mrs. Vidia Gayadeen-Gopeesingh, has strongly condemned the Rowley led administration for neglecting the students of La Romaine High School for the past five months.

The La Romaine High School has been plagued with a series of unfortunate events (a small fire in the Integrated Science Lab, termite infestations, sewer issues and electrical issues). The Minister of Education, promised the students that the requisite work would have been completed during the July/August vacation. It has been five months following these promises and students are still forced to stay at home.

Yesterday, students along with their parents protested outside the school indicating that they are absolutely fed up. The Minister of Education, in response to this issue, stated that he does not know why teaching did not resume on Monday 8th October, 2018. However, teachers indicated that electrical works are still outstanding and TTUTA President advised staff and students to steer clear of the school once the issues prevail.

Chastising the incompetent Rowley led administration for not addressing this pertinent issue in an efficient manner, the MP asked, “Is this the PNM’s legacy of investing in our citizens through education?” as stated by the Minister of Finance in the 2018-2019 Budget Statement. What about students’ School Based Assessments (SBAs), mid-term exams and preparation for CSEC and CAPE examinations?”

Mrs. Gayadeen-Gopeesingh continued, “This situation amplifies the statements made by the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar during her response to the run-around budget presentation delivered the Minister of Finance. It is evident that the PNM has destroyed the hard work completed by the People’s Partnership government that ensured that all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago had the opportunity to an education in safe and comfortable environment. It is time for the Minister of Education to wake up and resolve this issue immediately.”

The MP concluded “Investing in our people is the only way to secure our future. This failed administration under the leadership of Prime Minister Keith Rowley sees no value in educating our people. Advancing the education sector was one of the key areas of focus by the Kamla Persad-Bissessar led administration, and it remains a priority for the UNC today.”

Vidia Gayadeen-Gopeesingh
Dated: 9th October, 2018