The opposition Leader is often noted for advising Barbadians to make a choice. They often seek to place at the feet of our voters that the Democratic Labour Party has lost its way and is unable to manage the affairs of the nation.
We, on the other hand, have in turn provided ample evidence over the last eight years to justify why this party is the party of choice.
We have seen immense growth taking place in the tourism sector which some media refer to as the powerhouse. This powerhouse continues to be the flagship of foreign exchange earnings.
We have placed tremendous attention on renewal energy. One newspaper referred to the development in the industry as, “ a quiet energy revolution in the renewable energy sector”. This sector is gaining traction as we witnessed an increase in households and businesses adding photovoltaic systems to their homes, which shows their recognition of the importance of having a green economy.
The announcement by the Minister of Health of the opening of the ultra-modern health clinic and Civic centre in Gall Hill will add health care value while bringing state services closer to the community.
We cannot ignore the announcement of the construction of the two new police stations to strengthen and upgrade current stock of facilities.
The party of choice has delivered and continues to deliver. In this regard, the ability to deliver is a function of competence and support. The government has the competence and received the support of the people.
Once again the issue of choice confronts the people on the opposition bench. Instead of the leader asking Barbadians to choose, the members of the Barbados Labour Party are being asked to choose.
The reason that choice has to be made is because of incompetence and lack of support. The opposition leader has failed in her bid to convince her colleagues, members of the Barbados Labour Party, the public, Barbadians living overseas, the media, and especially Maria Agard that she is leadership material.
The Opposition Leader failed to manage a small space in Roebuck street, but wants sanction to manage an entire country. There is no doubt that choice has landed the Democratic Labour Party in Office and the Opposition Leader in opposition to her learned colleagues.
The accusations of breaking the rules of the party are not new. The Barbados Labour Party in office and out of office have defined their existence by throwing out the rule book. This new normal associated with the Barbados Labour Party allowed them to stay in office for three terms and will also ensure that they are kept in opposition.
There is no dispute – the people of Barbados made a choice in the Democratic Labour Party and we are securing a better Barbados for all. We have taken on the responsibility and have not apportioned blame in any quarter. The task at hand is not to cut off anyone’s head because they don’t like the Democratic Labour Party but work alongside all Barbadians.
This party has done well and should be congratulated for the efforts thus far. We did not expect neither could we have predicted the stretch of the downturn in the global economy. It is against this background our choices were informed.
We Pledge to this country that as a political party our eyes will be on the People. In this regard, we look forward to continuing on a course of sustainable development led by Freundel Stuart and his team as we secure Barbados for the future.
The Choice is clear – a DLP sure and steady or an Opposition that is in anarchy.
