Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
As he assumed his oath of office alongside eight fellow councillors at the Siparia Regional Corporation, 26-year-old Jillon Lewis committed to striving earnestly to mitigate unemployment and poverty in his Brighton/La Brea region.
Among those inaugurated were Lewis, one of the youngest PNM councillors.
The corporation has nine electoral districts, six of which went to the UNC and three for the PNM.
The ceremony took place at the Siparia Market Auditorium on Wednesday.
Positioned as one of the least seasoned councillors, Lewis expressed his deep empathy for the struggles faced by his constituents during his campaign expedition over the past two months.
“Many of the issues that affect our community are bad roads and (clogged) drains. I look forward to helping to build a better community by rectifying these problems,” Lewis said.
He said unemployment has been a major problem and we need to find ways to develop our economy and create more jobs.”
He said addressing unemployment stands out as a pressing concern.
Lewis said he wanted to motivate young individuals to enhance their marketability by investing in personal development. He endorsed the involvement of youths in institutions like NESC schools and trade schools, adding: “These are avenues I wish to see our young generation engage with.”
Meanwhile, outgoing chairman, Dinesh Sankersingh, conveyed his appreciation for his council members.
“With the mere pittance of salary that they get, it is really out of love that they serve their people,” he said. Welcoming the returning and the new councillors, Sankersingh urged them to remain dedicated and hardworking.
He emphasised that even if financial resources are limited, their commitment to delivering their best should endure.
The Chief Executive Officer Ann Hosein emphasised the critical role of the elected councillors in uplifting the Borough of Siparia throughout their new term.
She expressed her confidence in their potential to make substantial contributions, characterizing the position as one of immense responsibility. She added: “I believe that you will make great contributions to the new Borough. This is a position of great responsibility,” she said. “
Siparia is now South Trinidad’s newest Borough and the swearing-in of the new Mayor will be held next Wednesday.