I write on the behalf of the people of Barbados to highlight what I think is a matter of great concern to your attention. It is with regards to the changing of the system of Government in Barbados from the Westminster system to a Republic.
You may recall that in 1652 the under represented English Colonies, flexed their muscles and obtained quasi independence under the Treaty of Oistins by advocating their rights under the banner of ‘no taxation without representation.’
Errol Barrow then took a step further in 1966 to obtain full Independence for this island from Great Britain.
In admiration of your quest to achieve the status of a Republic in 2016, we have noted that you do not have the two thirds majority in the Lower House and that the Leader of the Opposition may not entertain your wish for a Republican status at this time. In 2016, the people feel the same under representation as the early colonies did, especially given the harsh economic climate that currently exists on the island. So, the people of Barbados can put a firm offer on the table. We can propose by way of a referendum if our below proposals are met to deliver to you a Republic.
One does not have to look too far to see that the provision of the basic necessities of life are now in need of addressing; water, housing, education and health. We have noted that you reward the upper class with contracts, chairmanships, hotel concessions and land to the detriment of providing the people the basic necessities of life. The same people have been burdened with taxes to cover the concessions which you have given away. The poor of this country are given nothing by your government except the constant carnivals that perpetuate the psychological hold that the end of the crop celebrations have placed in their minds since the time of Slavery. There must be something meaningful in exchange for a Republic that will benefit the masses of Barbados.
Here is what I propose in exchange for a Republic:
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That the Integrity Legislation that was a manifesto promise of the election of 2008 is implemented.
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Sustainable access to running water for all by putting one of those studies that we have been informed are at the BWA into action by digging into the underground aquifers to supply the island. All of Barbados must be ensured this necessity not just the Heights, Terraces and tourist industry.
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The removal of VAT across the board on food.
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The revision of the VAT rate on cellphone usage back to 17.5%.
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On reflection, it is the current education system that is the last bastion of colonialism not our present system of Government. A change in the structure of our educational system will change the mindset of the people. Teaching entrepreneurship from the primary level will halt the curse of the past which dictates success to a selected few who enter the halls of the older secondary schools. In essence the new model will give every child a chance to succeed; instilling in them that the poor black man of this country can own a business and not depend on others to survive.
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Free access to tertiary education at the University of the West Indies, the Barbados Community College and The SJP Polytechnic.
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The creation of a micro business development programme that has ambassadors who go out to communities guiding the youth into areas where they can start small businesses. Equipping them with skills and knowledge and handholding for predetermined period is a much better way to offer hope to the youth as opposed to football tournaments.
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That by a defined selected process the poor of this island are allowed to rent or own the houses that the government has stockpiled.
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Offer support to small farmers to form cooperatives with the aim of reducing the imported food bill. There is already the land which Mr. Bjerkham no longer wants that can be used for this purpose.
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Reduction in the land tax bills. The cost is now prohibitive to the poor.
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The cancellation of the Cahill Waste to Energy Project and a return of the $200,000 finder’s fee back to the public purse immediately and to engage the people in any projects that affect the environment.
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The removal of the tipping fee that has led to rampant illegal dumping putting the health of all Barbados at risk.
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The provision of resources and equipment at the QEH and the Psychiatric Hospital to ensure adequate care of the residents and citizens of Barbados.
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And last but not least the de-criminalization of Marijuana, the scourge that has wrecked the lives of the youth of this county since the mid 1970’s. It should never have been criminalized.
Please note that the above mentioned if agreed upon must be enacted by a date prior to the referendum and that a change to a Republican status will not bind the people to elect your government for a third term in office. The enactment of the above will certainly give the people of Barbados something meaningful to celebrate.
Heather Cole
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