Divers’ families deserve caring support

Couva South MP Rudranath Indarsingh criticized Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley for what he deemed as a lack of compassion towards the families of the deceased divers from the Paria diving tragedy. Indarsingh expressed disappointment in the prime minister’s focus on compensation being in the hands of Paria Fuel Trading Company Limited and its insurers, rather than providing immediate support to the families during the waiting process. He highlighted the state’s infrastructure for providing swift assistance in emergencies, such as food support cards, housing, grants for school supplies, and home repairs, regardless of the cause of the emergency.

Indarsingh also raised concerns about the government’s response to the recommendations of the Report of the Commission of Enquiry (CoE) following the Paria diving tragedy. He criticized the lack of action by the government on addressing these recommendations, accusing Prime Minister Rowley and his administration of being indifferent to issues affecting workers and the working class. The MP called out the government’s inertia in addressing the recommendations, suggesting a lack of concern for the well-being and safety of workers in Trinidad and Tobago.

The meeting between Prime Minister Rowley and the families of the deceased divers took place following the tragic incident involving the Paria diving crew. Rowley assured the families that the matter of compensation was being handled by Paria Fuel Trading Company Limited and its insurers, and he urged the company’s board to resolve the issues fairly and swiftly. However, the lack of immediate compassionate assistance from the government to the families during the waiting period was highlighted by Indarsingh as a point of contention.

In his statement, Indarsingh emphasized the importance of providing timely support and assistance to families in need, especially in the aftermath of a tragic event like the Paria diving tragedy. He pointed out the various forms of support available through the state’s infrastructure, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion during times of crisis. The MP criticized the prime minister’s approach to the situation and called for a more proactive response from the government in addressing the needs of the affected families.

Overall, the criticism from Couva South MP Rudranath Indarsingh highlights the need for a more compassionate and proactive approach from the government in supporting the families of the deceased divers from the Paria diving tragedy. The lack of immediate assistance and the government’s inertia in responding to the recommendations of the CoE report have raised concerns about the welfare of workers and the working class in Trinidad and Tobago. Indarsingh’s remarks underscore the importance of empathy and timely support in times of crisis, urging the government to prioritize the well-being of those affected by the tragedy.