By Prior Beharry
IN her 2023 New Year’s message, President Paula-Mae Weekes wishes for safety and security.
She said, “I deeply desire safety and security in 2023—safety from the ravages of man and nature. I would like to be able to see friends off at my gate with leisurely continuing old talk, not with their scurrying fearfully to their cars as I lock and bolt my gate behind me.”
President Weekes also empathized with the flooding victims.
She said, “I want the pattering of rain on rooftops to mean that we can roll over in bed and squeeze in another few minutes of rest, not be anxious and terrified that we are going to be flooded out yet again.”
The president also wished for a better economy.
She said, “I wish that the economy would further stabilise and put us on a more prosperous footing so that better remuneration packages, for the average worker, government services and job prospects come into being.”
President Weekes said, “I wish that in the short term, more programmes are put in place that would address issues of mental health and domestic violence, so that citizens on the brink can be identified and treated so that they pose no threat to themselves or others and live a wholesome quality of life.
“While zero domestic violence is an unrealistic goal, I wish that zero tolerance for it becomes the norm and the vulnerable are taught to recognise the red flags, and where they fall victim are provided with the necessary safeguards and services.
“I wish that we all will, as far as possible, avoid behaviours that put us at risk for illness and non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancers and stroke. Regular exercise, less fat and sugar and more rest are three effective and low-cost practices that both prevent the onset of these conditions, and mitigate the effects where they already exist. Better health care facilities, particularly in the public sector, and an increase in medical staff will go a long way towards treating both chronic and acute conditions.”
