Caption: Minister of Social Development and Family Services Donna Cox and Port of Spain Mayor Chinua Alleyne
THE ongoing issue of street dwelling in Port of Spain and its surrounding areas requires a firm and serious approach through a collaborative and unified effort, according to Minister of Social Development and Family Services Donna Cox.
Cox made this statement during a meeting held at the Ministry’s Head Office on St Vincent Street on Wednesday. The meeting brought together key officials, including Port of Spain Mayor Chinua Alleyne, representatives from the North West Regional Health Authority’s (NWRHA) Mental Health Unit, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), the Public Health Division, and the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services (MSDFS).
Minister Cox highlighted the urgent need to address the serious issue of street dwelling, noting the limitations faced by the Social Displacement Unit of the MSDFS.
The unit’s staff, while actively monitoring homeless individuals in the capital city, are currently unable to take significant action due to legal constraints and a lack of specialised training to handle individuals with mental health issues.
To combat these challenges, the minister is working on new legislation that would empower the unit to take more effective measures. The MSDFS is also overseeing the construction of an assessment centre for homeless persons at South Quay, Port of Spain.
Alleyne echoed Cox’s concerns, acknowledging the ongoing problem and expressing his readiness to collaborate with the MSDFS and other stakeholders.
He emphasised the importance of creating an attractive environment for investors, visitors, and the general public. The mayor also highlighted current initiatives, such as a daily street washing programme from 2 am to 5 am and plans to expand these efforts. Additionally, he proposed establishing a temporary location in the city where street dwellers can access showers and toilet facilities, contributing to cleaner streets.
The NWRHA’s Mental Health Unit suggested organising a “day of engagement” to assess and test street dwellers. This initiative aims to place individuals in appropriate institutions that cater to their specific needs, such as rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, homes for older persons, and facilities for persons with disabilities. This effort would involve collaboration among the MSDFS, TTPS, Port of Spain City Corporation, the Public Health Division, and other stakeholders to ensure its success.
During the meeting, several other issues and suggestions were discussed. Cox expressed her satisfaction with the enthusiasm and commitment shown by all participants in addressing the long-standing issue of street dwellers.
She said the necessity of legislative reform to tackle the problem effectively and expressed hope that such reforms would be in place by the time the new assessment centre opens. Cox reaffirmed her commitment to resolving the issue and scheduled an immediate follow-up meeting with technical personnel for July 24, 2024.
