Submitted by Yardbroom
Many months ago David – at Barbados Underground – and a few concerned bloggers brought to public notice the issue of immigration in Barbados; as they felt the majority Barbadian view was not being adequately represented. David suffered the chagrin of many news outlets and some pseudo intellectuals for daring to raise such a delicate subject. Despite this vilification David persisted. At times immigration topics on BU became heated as some commenters allowed their frustration to be vented in colourful language and in a “few” instances, unnecessary disrespect to specific groups. As a result individual comments were taken as the agenda of Barbados Underground. It must be understood I cannot speak for BU, as I have no remit to do so, my comments are simply general observations.
It is with some satisfaction that in his briefing to reporters at Ilaro Court on Wednesday 14 January Prime Minister Mr. David Thompson remarked:
…there was a revocation of some of the discretion that was allowed the department, so we could look and see how the system was operating…
…there will be a shakeup…
…I believe that there are going to be major administrative changes coming in the new year in the Immigration Department
The question which immediately seems appropriate, was the system or discretion being abused in the Immigration Department?
David and BU have been vindicated, the patriots you are have withstood the hubris masking itself as intellectualism and paraded before the populace as representing the majority Barbadian view, although they had no regard for the citizens whom they deign to disregard.
The Prime Minister has admitted some problems had surfaced in the administration of the Immigration Department, which need to be addressed and this will be done in the coming months. In as diplomatic language as one would expect of a reasonable and competent Prime Minister – entrusted with the welfare of his country. He alluded to things being wrong, which need to be addressed.
Whatever action is taken by the Government of Barbados, there are some on both sides of the debate who will be dissatisfied. That does not matter, providing the action is appropriate in the long term for Barbados’ economic future and its “social cohesiveness.”
The debate – to my mind at least – was not about Guyanese alone, but it cannot be denied that Guyanese are the major part of immigrants in Barbados. Evidence even if only anecdotal would suggest there was an illegal component which was/is causing concern. The situation was not assuaged by those who in responsible positions; sought to confront the Barbados population as opposed to working with them.
They did their countrymen a disservice…wiser heads and better “counsel” will be needed to heal the breach.
Barbadians in the main are a warm hearted and generous people, but never take our kindness and acceptance of others, as lacking common sense or wisdom, it is not; for even if only temporary the tide suggest that…the wave of self preservation will ultimately reclaim what is ours and the “common people” will decide and prevail.
The blogmaster invites you to join the discussion.