The Women's Institute for Alternative Development (WINAD) stands in solidarity with the 200-plus workers of Hearty Foods Supermarket, many of them women.
We trust that the organs of the state, which have the mandate to serve the needs of citizens in such unfortunate circumstances, have been mobilised and are delivering the necessary services.
WINAD has taken note of statements by the Prime Minister and the Member of Parliament for Arima that the Cabinet of the Republic of T&T will be requested to deliberate on this matter with a view to providing additional support to these workers.
WINAD expects that the collective wisdom of the Cabinet will not compromise the systems that are in place to provide support and relief to citizens.
Whilst we recognise that the scale of this tragedy has implications for many families and possibly the economy of Arima, WINAD expects that the plight of these workers would not be exploited for political expediency.
If the services provided by the state is insufficient in this case, then it is insufficient for all.
WINAD calls on all institutions that are mandated to serve the people to do so now!
Folade Mutota,
Executive Director