By Prior Beharry
AT 110-years-old, Una Lardy could possibly be the oldest person living in Trinidad and Tobago.
This according to the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services in a release on Friday.
At any rate, Lardy is the oldest person registered under the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services’ National Centenarian Programme where persons one hundred years and over are honoured for their contributions to the development of Trinidad and Tobago.
Lardy, who will turn 111 on Christmas Day, was recently visited by Minister of Social Development and Family Services Donna Cox.
She told Cox, “Eat fresh food from the land. Eat plenty of coconut, fish, corn.”
Lardy added, “Coconut water is a tonic.”
The Santa Cruz native said the world has changed plenty as she recalled going to a well to collect water.
Lardy said, “I have never missed the opportunity to vote in the general election. In my 80’s when I moved to Cumuto from Piccadilly Street, they would have to take me all the way to Port of Spain to vote as I felt it was very important to exercise my rights.”
On the visit, Cox was joined by Permanent Secretary Sheila Seecharan, Director of the Division of Ageing Dr Hyacinth Blake and gospel singer Jaron Nurse.
As the most senior centenarian on the Ministry’s NCP database, Lardy was the first recipient to receive the Ministry’s specially curated centenarian commemorative medal to honour her longstanding contributions to the development of the nation.
Centenarians recognised throughout 2022 are also scheduled to receive their commemorative medals, the release stated.
Development and Family Services will honour centenarians and encourage family and loved ones, Members of Parliament, Local Government representatives, friends, and neighbours to salute then by registering for the programme.
Persons may visit the Ministry’s website at www.social.gov.tt and complete the online form or print a downloadable form for completion. Completed forms may be dropped off at the nearest Social Welfare Office or emailed to the Division of Ageing at opic@social.gov.tt. For more information, persons may contact the Division of Ageing at 623 – 2608; Ext 2001 to 2009 or 800-OPIC (6742).
