Former workers of Caroni (1975) Limited are heartened that outstanding matters concerning them are being addressed on the political platforms but disappointed that the UNC Partnership is silent on monies due to them.
The political leader of the PNM is addressing the matter head-on and has promised to pay monies due. However, he seems to be mixing obligations to cane farmers while mentioning the ex-Caroni workers. These are two separate entities.
The ex-Caroni workers were promised some $52 million from the profits of the VSEP investment which made $104 million. This was offered by the Prime Minister during the Chaguanas West by-election 2012. So far nothing has been paid. The workers are very angry and threatening to vote PNM if Mr Rowley would only clarify his position.
Also, thousands of workers are yet to get their VSEP housing lots and agricultural lands 12 years since losing their jobs. The sugar unions are very upset. There are plans by the workers to boycott the UNC as they believe that they have been betrayed yet again.
Billions are being spent here and there, but none for the ex-sugar workers and cane farmers. Please clarify matters, Dr Rowley.
Winston Ramdhani
Couva