A renewed call for urgent action on crime and the cost of living took centre stage as Friends of Democracy president Senator Karina Goodridge warned that national security and economic stability remain critical to Barbados’ future.
Addressing the party’s second annual conference, Senator Goodridge, who retained the party leadership, said: “We are witnessing growing concerns about crime, gang activity, gun violence, and the safety of our communities. No parent should fear for the safety of their child. No community should feel abandoned and have to witness the deaths of hundreds before effective government intervention.”
Safer communities required not only effective law enforcement but also opportunities for young people, stronger families, better education, and economic policies that create hope, she said.
Highlighting the economic anxieties of citizens, she noted that families are struggling with the rising cost of living, while small businesses face a difficult environment for survival and growth.
She expressed concern that young people are unable to find opportunities that align with their skills and ambitions, and that many citizens are worried about the accessibility of healthcare, housing, and the prospects for future generations.
In light of the recent government announcement that eligible citizens can use national IDs for travel between Barbados and Guyana starting at the beginning of next month, the senator emphasised the need for Barbadians to be fully equipped to benefit from regional integration, while advocating for measures such as travel discounts and reduced airfares to be considered during the negotiation of easier travel paths.
“As opportunities emerge across the Caribbean through regional integration and economic expansion, we must also ensure that Barbadians are equipped, empowered, and positioned to benefit always,” Senator Goodridge said. She insisted that Barbados must be ready to lead and compete within CARICOM, ensuring that its people do not become mere spectators in regional arrangements.
The FOD chair said the party would employ creative, “outside the box” thinking to help citizens navigate these challenges.
Joining Senator Goodridge on the party’s executive management committee are Ricardo Harrison, Pastor Matthew Thorne and Ricardo Andwele Williams as vice-presidents; Steven Blackett as general secretary; general treasurer T Felicia Corbin; assistant secretary Anya Lorde and Sandra Estwick as assistant treasurer.
(JB)
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