I would like to comment on the recent decision by the corporate entity, ANSA McAL, to acquire the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago medal that belonged to labour icon Adrian 'Cola' Rienzi and return it to T&T after it was auctioned for sale on eBay.
While this matter caused much worry and panic at the Office of the President, given the award's symbolism to our Republic, the relief of its return may be mitigated by the reports of other similar awards that are still purchasable on the online market.
While we cannot expect ANSA McAL's generosity in this matter to create a precedent, lest it open up the floodgate for further incidents of the sort, it does underscore the gesture by ANSA McAL chairman and CEO Norman Sabga and highlights the commitment of the private sector to developing our nation.
Even with the increasing taxes and levies on corporate entities conducting business in our country, there has been a distinct and concerted efforts by these businesses to forgo downsizing in an effort to safeguard the livelihood of their employees and their families. Payroll is often one of the top expenses of any company and it can be the most appealing division to trim when the costs of other elements threaten the bottom line.
However, during a time of economic turmoil as our country is now facing, the business community deserves commendation for sticking it out and preserving the jobs of their employees.
While the Minister of Finance is of the opinion that it is "unpatriotic" for persons and companies to increase their prices despite the increased tariffs that the government has saddled on them, the true demonstration of their patriotism can be found in their loyalty to their staff and their allegiance to our national community.
Ravi Maharaj