Tobago electoral rep denies food card favouritism

KINNESHA GEORGE-HARRY

ELECTORAL representative for Plymouth/Golden Lane Marisha Osmond said the distribution of THA emergency food cards was done above the table and denied knowledge of any favouritism at her district office.

This comes on the heels of calls by Deputy political leader of the Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) and electoral representative for Parlatuvier/ L’Anse Fourmi/ Speyside Farley Augustine for members of the Executive Council to clear allegations on whether area representatives have been given food cards to distribute.

Augustine’s call last Thursday was prompted by a social media post two days earlier, accusing Osmond of giving food cards to friends and those already employed.

The post headed “feeling confused” said: “Can someone please enlighten me on why the area representative for Plymouth/ Golden Lane only giving her friends & people who currently working, who are employed with the government food cards? Is this a political thing or who you know? What about them who got laid off from work & those families that actual in need of these food items! Come election time all yuh mouth sweeter than honey?”

Addressing the allegation, Osmond denied favouring anyone and said the division of finance and the economy was responsible for selecting the recipients of food cards. She said there are copies of the emergency food card forms at her office.

“Usually the interested party will collect the form and drop it in. However, during this period of covid19 I have opted to collect the forms, drop them in and collect the cards after processing is through. So, the cards are collected at my district office or I allow my driver and field officer to deliver to those that cannot make it to collect,” she said.

Osmond said the area representative and staff members at the district office of Plymouth/Golden Lane are there to serve all the residents of that electoral district.

“This period of discomfort and uncertainty as a result of covid19 has been difficult for many. Relief and comfort have been provided to over 200 residents. The help came in the form of hampers, food cards, breakfast, and other forms. As area rep, I remain accessible and available to my residents. The office is open Monday to Friday 8 am to 4 pm.”