Mama always taught us to play fair. We learn to play fair as children because it is the right thing to do and because this respect for one another is foundational to our society. Trinis should play fair because everyone deserves an opportunity and it makes the country a better place. Sure, we might sneak into a queue when somebody looks the other way. Sure, we might ignore a stop sign on a deserted street. We might even take credit for someone else's work. But when it comes to the most important matters–the moral questions of our time–Trinis know how to do the right thing. Trinis know how to play fair.
That is precisely why I am ever dismayed by the proceedings of the commission of enquiry into Udecott and the seemingly one-sided public debate on the issue.�I will not pretend to understand the goings-on of a special purpose state enterprise, and I cannot hope to understand the tangled world of politics. But this I know: Udecott is responsible for improving this country for the benefit of all. And this too: Udecott is responsible for great sums of the people's money. But are we resentful of this fact, and do we therefore assume the worst of intentions from the leaders of this important enterprise?�
Do we ignore their good works and focus on the salacious political drama unfolding in the newspapers and on TV? Does the name "Udecott" cause us to suddenly forget our natural sense of fairness? Mama would insist that I give Udecott a fair chance to tell its side of the story. Give Udecott a fair chance to account for its great accomplishments as well as its shortcomings.�I for one will remember to approach these matters fairly when I visit the waterfront, or pass by the stunning National Academy for the Performing Arts, or think about attending a future cricket match at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. I don't close my eyes to the imperfections of our country's leaders. No. But I give them a fair chance. It's what mama would want.
Thomas Williams
Via e-mail
