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Recent initiatives by private and public entities to improve social relations amid warring factions in the inner city are gaining traction.
Richard Frederick, Member of Parliament (MP) for Central Castries, has expressed significant support for the initiatives, which involve ongoing communication aimed at lowering violence among the city’s gangs, particularly among young people.
We must address the proliferation of ungainly activity that threatens the peace and tranquility of our communities,” he said
To properly address this issue, a coalition of concerned persons from diverse society groups collaborated with the MP to foster mutual respect and understanding between these opposing factions.
Following engaging motivational presentations, the following phase entails staging football challenges to inspire young men to devote their time to worthwhile interests.
“We are igniting a movement to bring these young men together and shift their mindsets towards productive living,” declared Frederick.
Frederick emphasised the importance of real-life experiences, citing testimonials from a former “death row” inmate who exposed young men to the brutal realities of crime and its consequences. Many people have stated a desire to modify their lives, acknowledging the need for good change.
When assessing this social issue, Frederick observed, “These young men yearn for belonging, often gravitating towards groups with misguided intentions. However, they are now voicing their intention to strive for change.”
Frederick said that approximately 300 people, mostly young guys, recently met for a fruitful discourse marked by respect and cooperation.
Concerning these accomplishments, Frederick stated, “The key now is to ensure sustainability in our efforts. This requires creativity in engaging these young men to participate willingly.”
He went on: “We are working with them to ensure that they embark on paths that lead to legal and income-generating opportunities.”
Frederick further emphasised the readiness of numerous public and private entities to assist this project, which will improve networking among volunteers and support systems. He thanked the Ministry of Youth and Sports for providing footballs and equipment for friendly matches and pledged to improve lighting at the Grass Street Court, where these games take place.
Support is growing, with clergy members like Archbishop Malzaire and Pastor Ben keen to contribute. Frederick made it clear that he is not the movement’s figurehead; it requires a comprehensive approach that welcomes all constructive suggestions for implementation.
He thanked Rayneau Gajadhar of CIE Ltd., who provided a place in Cul de Sac for young men to participate in developmental activities that promote productive life.
Frederick went on: “We are still in the early stages, but progress is being made, and we are committed to this journey.”
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With the goal of creating a peaceful and productive environment in the inner city, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre who is the Member of Parliament for Castries East recognises the behavioural patterns that affect communities and is actively supporting efforts to foster better relationships among the youth.
On the issue of criminality in society, PM Pierre emphasised the importance of removing societal stigma: “There’s no fundamental difference between individuals from different areas except for privilege and opportunity,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for individual and civic responsibility in achieving societal peace. Pierre remarked, “Many individuals limit themselves, believing they cannot succeed because of their background. We must instil a mentality of progress and resilience, rejecting excuses tied to location.
PM Pierre emphasised the importance of taking advantage of existing opportunities and the role of parents in guiding their children. It’s important to maintain discipline and good behaviour, as your actions will determine how you’re treated. We need to develop discipline in our people.
He stated that the government is providing opportunities for young people through agencies such as the National Skills and Development Centre (NSDC), the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), the Ministry of Equity and the Youth Economy Agency (YEA), the Semi-Professional Football League [SPFL], and other social services.