My sincerest appreciation to the staff of the Ministry of Agriculture for their concern and timely action in dealing with a situation which could have ended in tragic circumstances.
On Wednesday, May 18, I discovered the presence of bees on my premises through the unpleasant experience of being pursued and stung multiple times on the head. I am allergic to bee stings.
On observing the size of the swarm in an overturned plant pot barely 10 metres from the house, I called Mrs Anthea Watson of the Ministry late that afternoon, appealing for help. She assured that I would hear from personnel early the following morning.
True enough, I was contacted by a Ms Victoria early on the Thursday morning and via a Mr George of the Ministry's regional office referred to a beekeeper, Mr Henry Awong. On Friday 20, Mr Awong and his team very efficiently removed the bees and sprayed the area. My neighbours were all alerted and the exercise passed off smoothly.
What was equally impressive was the number of follow-up calls from ministry personnel and Mr Awong to ascertain the success of the operation. These calls were caring and reassuring. The beekeeper himself wanted to ensure that the premises were rid of bees.
That very Thursday, there was an article in one of the dailies of a man being killed by a swarm of bees in Rio Claro while using a wacker in his front yard; his wife and neighbour, both severely stung, could not save him. I could not help but reflect on myself, the ministry and God's providence.
I commend all mentioned and anyone else who would have contributed to the success of this exercise.
Trevor Ifill,
Orange Grove, Tacarigua