Democratic Labour Party (DLP) candidate for The City, Dale Rowe, criticised the government’s handling of economic and social issues while pledging transformative change for the people of The City as he addressed a branch meeting at Emmerton Pavilion, Chapman Lane on Sunday.
Speaking before a room filled with party supporters, Rowe lamented the struggles faced by city residents residents pointing to widespread poverty, poor housing conditions, and systemic neglect.
“Our problems are real. I refuse to accept that hardworking people must choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. Too many of you work multiple jobs and still fall behind. That is not because you are not good enough or don’t work hard enough — it is because the system is failing,” he stated.
He shared emotive stories from his interactions with constituents, including a woman in Nelson Street whose termite-ridden home has holes in the roof. He also spoke of another resident renting a house with a caving roof and a damaged floor, yet receiving no assistance.
Rowe also took aim at discrimination in the job market, highlighting the struggles young people face in securing employment.
“I met a 28-year-old forklift driver who sent in 30 applications and got no calls — until he changed his address. I met a woman in her 40s who was ignored until she changed her address. HR departments discriminate. The government does not hold businesses accountable,” he asserted.
The DLP candidate further criticised the government’s decision to give away five acres of land while failing to address the dire living conditions in places like Greenfield and Nelson Street.
“People in Nelson Street, Wellington Street, and other areas are upset because the government gave away five acres of land. Meanwhile, living conditions in Greenfield and Nelson Street are ridiculous — no parks, no community activities, nothing for the people. But land is given away for banks and hotels that won’t hire city residents,” he charged.
Addressing the deteriorating state of the healthcare system, Rowe revealed his own experience at the hospital where he waited 15 hours at A&E before seeing a nurse.
“There is only one ECG machine. The children’s ward has leaking hot water, falling tiles, and no basic supplies. Nurses have no proper benefits. The hospital is in shambles, yet the government gives away land instead of investing in healthcare and housing,” he said.
Rowe painted a bleak picture of life for many children in The City, citing a lack of recreational facilities.
Pledging action under a DLP government, Rowe promised to deliver safe and affordable housing, hold landlords accountable, and implement stronger rent protections. He also vowed to create stable employment.
“A Democratic Labour Party government will provide safe and affordable housing, hold landlords accountable, and enforce stronger rent protections. We will create stable job opportunities, not just short-term contracts,” he said.
Rowe rallied supporters to back the DLP, positioning it as the party that will fight for ordinary Barbadians.
“This government does not care about our people. The Democratic Labour Party will work for all. We will end waste and corruption while our streets are filled with potholes. Every tax dollar should be invested in our people and economy. It is time to take back our country.”
Emphasising his commitment to the people, Rowe pledged to personally meet all 6 827 residents in The City.
“I will not rest until I meet all 6 827 people in The City. People ask why they should believe in me. I understand their doubt because they have not seen representation. The Democratic Labour Party under Ralph Thorne is the way forward. We will not leave any stone unturned.”
He also touted the party’s 15-point plan for The City and reaffirmed his dedication to service.
“We have a 15-point plan for The City that people find impressive. I am not here for a pension — I already have one. I am here to represent the people. Ralph Thorne and every other Democratic Labour Party candidate are here to work, not for fame or glory,” the DLP hopeful said.
(IMC)
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