Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has defended her decision to host a Christmas hamper drive for the needy at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s today, saying the move was in keeping with her promise to open up the facility to citizens. She made the comment yesterday as she responded to a call by Arouca/Maloney MP Alicia Hospedales for invitees to stay away from the event.
“I didn’t hear (the statement) but if such a statement was made I think it was most unfortunate,” Persad-Bissessar said during the PM’s Christmas Treats function at the Mayaro Resource Centre, Mayaro. “Remember when I became PM, I said I would open up the Diplomatic Centre to everyone. Because these persons may be vulnerable does not mean that they cannot come to the Diplomatic Centre for any event.”
Labelling Hospedales’ statement unfortunate, the PM added: “No, I took a decision and I am very happy with that decision that we would invite them there, we would treat them and of course also give them their hampers.” In a press release, Hospedales knocked the PM for “exploiting poor people” who would have to find money to travel to the centre for a hamper. But Persad-Bissessar said the recipients would not have to worry about transport.
“No, the Ministry of People contacted the recipients and offered transport, if it was needed, so it is not as though they have to pay a taxi fare. I understand that not everyone would be able to pay transportation costs to get there.” She added that by making use of the Diplomatic Centre, Government was also saving money.
“We used that venue, which was very appropriate, otherwise we would have had to rent another venue, like the Hyatt perhaps, or rent a venue like Napa, which is still under repair.” In a press release, Hospedales told beneficiaries to preserve their dignity and worth and not allow themselves to be exploited by the Prime Minister, or anyone else who was interested in making a public relations “pappyshow” of their current social and economic status.
“Boycott any event that seeks to ridicule you, exploit you and diminish your dignity and worth,” she added.