Indar Weir’s Housing Exposé In St. Philip North

Posted on June 26, 2011 by David | 141 Comments

This entry was posted in Barbados, Barbados News and tagged Barbados Housing, Michael Lashley, St. Philip North. Bookmark the permalink.

141 Responses to Indar Weir’s Housing Exposé In St. Philip North

David | June 26, 2011 at 9:16 AM |

We understand Weir is capitalizing on the weakness of Lashley, that said an explanation is required after seeing the housing stock on show in the video in St. Philip North.

A disgrace in 2011.
ac | June 26, 2011 at 9:31 AM |

cuh dear!
islandgal246 | June 26, 2011 at 9:34 AM |

I cannot believe in this day and age that people are living under these conditions in Barbados. I thought that some of housing being built was to relieve people from conditions like these. What a crying shame! There are still too many people being neglected and forgotten. It seems that money only talks and the poor remain poorer. What has happened to the poverty alleviation fund? Is there one?
David | June 26, 2011 at 9:37 AM |

The issue here seems to be whether Lashley with responsibility for Urban could not have done more.

BU believes the PM has taken Urban to bolster his position in his riding which has always been marginal at best.
islandgal246 | June 26, 2011 at 9:39 AM |

Some of these pictures remind me and look like the slums of South Africa. Shame shame on the government. Some of these ministers should be made to live for a month in one these shacks to experience what these people go through. Only then they will truly understand the plight of the poor.
balance | June 26, 2011 at 9:41 AM |

pray tell me how can blame be attributed to mr michael lashley.methinks this is an issue that can be thrown in the blp’s face if this tragedy has been in existence during the tenure of the last administration who placed much emphasis on poverty alleviation under grasshopper hamilton lashley.
islandgal246 | June 26, 2011 at 9:47 AM |

I agree this didn’t happen overnight and BOTH political parties are responsible. When we lie in our beds at night and hear the rain falling on our rooftops, think about these people. Think about their sleepless nights trying to stay dry. Think about their children having to go to school next day with damp clothing. This is an abomination!
David | June 26, 2011 at 9:50 AM |

Here is an example of what some of us who try to be politically independent mean.

We need to take the politics out of some things -we can start at the 3 basics needs of life – food, shelter and clothing.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 10:05 AM |

The BLP is just shame of its poor housing record after being in office for fourteen years and in time of plenty to boot.

If they don’t do something quick to discredit Michael Lashley it is going to make them look really stupid. Hence this feeble attempt at turning the tide.

Many of these houses were this way from under the BLP administration but the DLP is getting around to them

What will “under wear” come with then?
David | June 26, 2011 at 10:09 AM |

@Cadogan

Do you understand that your brazen partisan political mouthings only appeal to political hacks? i.e. no credibility

What do you have to say about the housing on show in the video.

The people who occupy those houses want to hear you on this matter.
islandgal246 | June 26, 2011 at 10:14 AM |

Carson you are such a moron, have you no empathy? I should be replacing my roof in a month or so and I would like to donate all of the good roofing galvanize to some of these people. Indar I will be contacting you shortly.
Raw Bake | June 26, 2011 at 10:17 AM |

David, I know that gas is not cheap right now, but you really need to get out of the heights and terraces and do some driving.

The bigger disgrace is that the images in the video are common all over Barbados. In fact there are many people living under worse conditions, that have not yet caught the eye, or camera, of aspiring, outgoing or incumbent politicians.

Pity that it always seems that it takes politics to expose the plight of poor Barbadians. Mr. Weir should have gone a bit further to inform as to whether there has been partisan allocation of state relief to constituents of St. Phillip North.

I will suggest to Mr.Weir that the reduction in Mr. Lashley’s portfolio has little to do with dissatisfaction, but more to do with giving others the opportunity and resources to replicate Mr. Lashley’s stewardship of the development commissions.

Good video nevertheless. There might still be hope for a new fourth estate.
Raw Bake | June 26, 2011 at 10:25 AM |

As for the housing policy. How come that there is said to be thousands on the NHC’s waiting list, but he NHC is still holding house fairs to attract new buyers for these $75 000.00 starer houses?

Is the NHC saying that people on its list do not want these houses or cannot afford them?
just only asking | June 26, 2011 at 10:25 AM |

@David

if lasley were to fix all the dilapidated houses in his constituency you would have heard howling. Minister of housing is not only responsible for his constiutency, but the whole of Barbados.

Yes we have people who must be helped, but we have some people who have their priorties wrong and over the years allow thier houses to reach a stage where they then cannot repair them. What happens to adage fix the rtotten board here and there. The hurtful thing in alot of these instances is that some of these people have family who appear when the house is repaired and when govt use back some of the wood from the old house claim that the house belong to them. I know of a case where the resident beat ooficer and i got a new house built for an elderly gentleman and he subsequently died and the hosue is still there, but a relative claim that she was told thatsome of the board from the old house was used and hence she is entilted to it. I knew it was rebuilt from scratch.

Are you aware that there is a grant of ten thousand dollars that home owners can get to repair their homes. Check the National Housing Corporation. Community Leaders need to knoow how to empower ressidents instead of relying on the Ministers to solve all the problems, And the Constuency Councils have been advising barbadians where they can get help, and in some instances assisting barbadians wiht small repairs.

Children have a responsibilty to their parents to assist while they are living and dont wait until they dead to waste money on an expensive funera and then fight for the land,

.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 10:29 AM |

The housing crusade which is being undertaken by the DLP will ensure that such images are a thing of the past.

If the BLP had done their work properly such scenes in Barbados would have been rare.

Alas, in fourteen years I don’t think that the BLP constructed fourteen houses for the poor!

Twelve billion dollars in vat revenue under the BLP and Bajans still living in these conditions.

The BLP ought to be shame. Poor stewardship.

What say you “under wear”?
David | June 26, 2011 at 10:36 AM |

It is politics, this is how the game is played.

Weir is doing what he is suppose to be doing as Lashley’s rival.

We all know there is poor housing stock all over Barbados and which existed under B and D.

Again it is politics and Weir is using the ‘bite approach’ to woo support.

The people will decide.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 10:44 AM |

Check out the CITY.

Represented by the BLP for donkey’s years yet they are people living in the City Constituency with dirt floors.

Tood is doing his best with small means to try to correct the situation. Something the BLP turned a blind eye to.
David | June 26, 2011 at 10:47 AM |

The bottomline is in 2011 some of the housing stock we see around Barbados as shown in the video should not be a reality.

We have to get back to being people focused and caring for people and put the faluting first world status ideals on the back burner.

PEOPLE FOCUSED!
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 10:54 AM |

The DLP in the time that they have been in office are working overtime to correct this very bad situation.

Hence the fear of the BLP is that the DLP will succeed.
Raw Bake | June 26, 2011 at 11:10 AM |

Given that many of the house now being constructed remain empty long after completion, is it more beneficial to the country to build 1 000 new houses to house 5 000 and ignore 10 000 sub standard ones currently housing 50 000 or build 200 new ones and improve the 10 000 so that they could accommodate 54 000?
Ian Bourne | June 26, 2011 at 11:14 AM |

Carson Cadogan – while BLP has had 14 years to fix SPN, what have the DEM’s done from January 2008 to NOW? How long does it take to “get around” to fixing them? You remind of the joke abut using Round Tuit’s to solve problems… Folk have an ailment and the response (was it yours?)

‘I’LL GET A “round tu’it”…‘ {SAY IT ALOUD}
Alien | June 26, 2011 at 11:36 AM |

Mr. Weir, you have shown us what Mr. Lashley has not done. Please now show us what you have done. We certainly hope that you are not suggesting that we have to elect you for you to provide some leadership in rectifying this situation. We are sure that with your business and organizational experience you can help us to organize and help ourselves.
David | June 26, 2011 at 11:38 AM |

What can Weir do in Opposition?

He is doing his job as opposition candidate.

He does not have government resources at his command.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 11:40 AM |

IAN

If you have to ask a question such as that, it is saying to me that from Jan. 2008 until now you have been vacationing on the Moon or Mars.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 11:41 AM |

IAN

…..and let me add, with no contact with Earth!
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 11:44 AM |

DAVID

“He does not have government resources at his command.”

……and he never will!
Ian Bourne | June 26, 2011 at 11:50 AM |

Carson Cadogan – I am not the one who is orbiting some satellite, at least I can query both sides and not be seen doing cunnilingus or fellatio relentlessly on one Party or the other?
Alien | June 26, 2011 at 11:50 AM |

Mr. Weir, we do not, as poor people, trust each other, but we trust respectful, successful people such as you are. Here is how you can assist. I have an old house on 5,000 square feet of land and my next door neighbor has the same, but we do not have any money. If we were to combine our two pieces of land and build eight townhouse units, we can have one each and the sale of the other six units can pay for the entire project and possibly leave a little savings for us. But we need someone with your know-how to organize us. Will you help?
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 11:51 AM |

FROM FACEBOOK

Tony Wiggins:-
“The DLP Govt with Michael Lashley as the Minister of Housing & Lands offered the rental units to tenants who were renting the units for twenty or more years ; some of the tenants and their families were residing in the units since 1949 . Since 1954 , no minister of Housing has provided more practicable housing solutions than Michael Lashley .”
Hants | June 26, 2011 at 12:15 PM |

@David.

I too am a partisan DLP supporter but I am good at arithmetic.
I did prety good in L1B at Kolij.

14 years -3 years = 11 years

The BLP had 11 more years than the DLP to build houses for poor people.

Lest we forget that Owen say land should be used to its maximum value so while Owen was chillin at Portsintcow and maximising the ovaseas investment class, and talkin shiite to we bajans in toronta an Newyork bout how we should come back to Paradise…….

I doan have to read an spell fuh wunna but I gettin pissed off again an GP would advise me it is not good for my health so I gone.

An ask Owen why it is better to build 10 million dollar houses than 15 little houses on 4000 sq. ft lots.

I is a DLP supporter so this is a partisan political rant.
Where is Royalrumble to cuss muh like he used to on BFP?
David | June 26, 2011 at 12:29 PM |

@Hants

Royalrumble must be in the Mia camp.

A bearish market is obviously affecting the takeup of housing stock at this time.

Who wants to commit to a significant financial commitment in these times?

Unfortunately the same perspective would apply to people in the lower economic bracket.
just only asking | June 26, 2011 at 12:30 PM |

@David

I disagree with the emotional charged word you used such as disgrace. We have to be careful how we used words like that when we are dealing with one of the most successful housing minister over the last 18 years. There is nothing disgraceful about his performance. it might be a disgrace fro people to live in such sub-standard housing conditions, but they are not of his making and hence one cannot contribute the word disgrace to him or implied that it has something to do with his performance that people are living in those conditions.

Can the govt rid the country of all those dilapidated houses in three years, have any body stop to ask if some of those houses are being rented and why the landlord dont fix them.

Indra Weir is like all politicains about to score cheap politcal points, but he must recognized that Michael Lashley and Donville Iinniss are two solution oriented politicians and the two hardest working of the buch tha are producing results. They will be hard to be dislodged.

Mr. Lashley owes no one an explanation, If you travel all over barbados you will see such houses. Continue the good work Mr lashley and dont be distracted.
David | June 26, 2011 at 12:35 PM |

@just only asking

However you spin it it is a disgrace to have people living in these conditions.

Whether Lashley is a successful or most successful minister of housing is irrelevant.
Moneybrain | June 26, 2011 at 1:45 PM |

@ Hants
I regret learning of your partisan approach as I expect my fella Kolij bros to be very objective. I do agree, however, that the BLP and DLP have both FAILED miserably in developing proper land use policy and to application of concepts generated regardless of source. When the very expensive foreign projects were being considered, why was there not a stipulation that low cost housing in some ratio eg 10:1, had to be produced for locals?

I understand that certain builders can create sturdy houses for $ 40-80,000. Why cant Govt, regardless of B or D, form a partnership with a large Life Insurance Company to finance the building of thousands of properties, that the Govt collects rent from to payback the said Lifeco? The concept in this situation is to “rent to own” over say a 25yr period. Other strategies should be developed for other segments eg retired households, houses requiring repairs only etc. The details of the plans should, wherever possible, be based on ownership because that gives lower income Bajans the opportunity to own their own country and improve their position in life. Positive psychology will lead to further Nation building.

I dont believe in just giving housing to anyone who is capable of assisting development, working or providing some service to the community. Governments should help people to develop but not create long term dependence.
the Scout | June 26, 2011 at 1:51 PM |

Everytime someone have to criticise the DLP, there is always their yardfowls who will jump on the paling and crow. Yes, the BLP was not doing what was expected of them especially within the last term of their administration, that’s why WE changed to the DLP. Many promises were made and those of us who know politics, knew that some of those promises were just political gimmicks, like what was to happen in 100 days, and others in 500 days. What is vexing is that Mr Lashley is Minister of Housing and formerly Rural and Urban Development, yet no priority was given to persons from his constituency unless they are DLP supporters, he MUST realise he is the representative of the entire constituency, hence all the persons in it, whether they are his supporters or not. This disclosure by Mr Weir will not be enough for Mr Lashley to lose his seat but certainly would wake him up or he could get the same fate as Cappy Greenidge.
Not fooled | June 26, 2011 at 2:09 PM |

David at BU get real !

Indar Weir need to learn how to use a video…..Why does he have to record the same scenes over & over ? Here is WHY ?

PAY ATTENTION TO THE FACTS BELOW.

In 1996 Owen Arthur told Barbadians he was not aware of such huge pockets of POVERTY in Barbados after visiting St. Michael North West.

David, you mean to tell INTELLIGENT Barbadians that AFTER the introduction of :
1. VAT on 1st 1997 and 12 billion $$ in VAT funds !
2. The setting up of Rural & Urban Development agencies in 1998 !
3. The setting up of Ministry of Social Transformation in 1998 !
4. No Economic Global recession ( like the one of 2007 – PRESENT)…..that the BLP Administration should be PROUD highlight POVERTY among BARBADIANS…..AFTER LEAVING OFFICE IN JANUARY 2008 ?

The 4 points highlighted above were to precisely address the issues INDAR WEIR noe gloating about !

While Owen during that time spent time satisfying the lives and demands of the RICH & FAMOUS .

Hence selling land to the highest bidder was…Owen Arthur’s legacy on….HOUSING.

What give rae MOUTH imbeciles like you, Indar Weir and other BLP JOKERS to condemn a DLP government helping to house BARBADIANS and improve their housing stock in the throes of the worst global economic recessions known to man ?

GET REAL !
David | June 26, 2011 at 2:18 PM |

@Not fooled

Thanks for you comment colourful though it was…lol

Can you tell us of the housing stock attributed to the government and Minister Lashley how many are occupied?

Can you tell us of the total stock what is the price distribution of the stock?

BU unlike others do not judge the success on numbers of houses built alone but on take up and affordability.
Adrian Hinds | June 26, 2011 at 2:29 PM |

@Hant
Indeed 14 to 3 years to refurbish those houses under video review, and even the so called political independent voices are loudly calling for the Ministers action on account of his political opponent. Are they trying demonstrate their independence or they truly believe that this government has the were with all to renovate all delapidated houses in Barbados in three years, and that the last government did not and therefore could not accomplish the same goal in 14 years? This is amazing to me.

I remember one case during the last government’s reign Were Cinty was taken to task for a run down house somewhere in her consituency, she came to her defence by stating that the house was on land not owned by the occupier and could not move forward with the help the lady requested. To my mind 3 years is too little time for government to radicate all eye sore houses in Barbados -if indeed such is possible – Yet another consideration to take on is what efforts were made by anyone to address these situations? Do we know?
David | June 26, 2011 at 2:32 PM |

@Adrian

It is not only about building houses but refreshing existing stock especially those affected after TOMAS.

Minister Lashley has done well but he should not expect a free pass, expect to be probed regarding his stewardship.
740 | June 26, 2011 at 2:33 PM |

@c.c.c why u always talking bout de blp aint do this and them aint do that, wunna think ppl put wunna in ta hear bout wha de blp aint do from wha them do ,de ppl dun know and voted to that effect ,now get on on wid de job cause some ah dem houses that wunna build that de poor ppl thought that they would have got that lashley calling low income, aint na dam low income; low income aint na damm $2300 ah lot ah low income ppl would be glad ta get that. i does work fa $260 ah week, we de young ppl dun know and hear bout de blp last election so dont come wid that ole shite nex election, we give wunna 5yrs, we want ta hear from wunna cause wunna is who in power now not de blp ,lashley doing good work but ah lot of theses houses out of de ppl ah de bottom reach,deal wid de ppl that pun de NHC list FIRST and not de ones that coming to de housing fairs now applying.
Adrian Hinds | June 26, 2011 at 2:45 PM |

@David
I hear you. I would never agitate for a pass to given to any politician; but the arguments made in support of this joke video are laughable. Ian Bourne’s now reduced argument contends that it will wake up the Minister to do something about it, when we all know that such an altruistic intent was never its purpose. It was and has always been a political ploy to discredit the Minister for pure political gain.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 2:46 PM |

I tell you BLP people that the DLP operates ahead of its time.

It is going to take you BLP people twenty or more years to come to grips with the great job that the DLP is doing.

I will be around to accept your apologies when you find out your mistakes.

Another thing, you BLP don’t learn. Stupid talk from Owen”seethru”Arthur and the Barbados Labour Party cost Barbadian Contractors the very lucrative Pickerings project. The largest project in Barbados going to Jamaicans. If Bajans don’t be careful, good housing will go to Guyanese, Jamaicans, Trinidadians, Vincentians etc. and Bajans will again loose out because of foolish talk from the Crooked Barbados Labour Party.

People from other West Indian Islands will prove that they have more sense than some Bajans.
thoughts | June 26, 2011 at 2:55 PM |

Dear just only asking,
You said Minister Lashley owes no one an explanation. May I ask why is that? I visit this blog regularly and yours and CCC rants are unobjective and downright partisan. Can no one critise your party? From my perspective as a 25 year old voter, you certainly do not help your party’s cause. The first time I have ever voted in my life was in 2008 when I voted for this administration, so NO one can call me an BLP. In fact, I share a robust relationship with my current representative, having pointed out areas which affected both myself and others which seemed to not be being dealt with speedily or at all. My point is, castigating the BLP doesn’t help, and displaying arrogance that Mr.Lashley owes no one an explanation is downright disgusting. He was elected to SERVE the people, not the other way around my friend.His job is to continue about the people’s business, take critism and DO BETTER. May he see these people’s plights and assist them however possible.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 3:02 PM |

Barbados Labour Party supporters and members seem to talk first and think later.

All Bajans should be encouraged to grab hold of this sterling opportunity ,with both hands, to own a piece of the rock before others from “over-in-away” realise what a good thing is going on and make full use of the opportunity to further own Barbados.

Only the dumb, stupid Barbados Labour Party supporters is trying to prevent Bajans from improving them selves.

I guess the crooked Barbados Labour Party only want Bajans to buy cars.
Robert Deschappé | June 26, 2011 at 3:08 PM |

@ Not Fooled

I have seen you DLP supporters come to this blog and state that Owen Arthur sold land to the highest bidder. Let us be fair, can you please tell me where is this land and to whom it was sold?

Or you are just another political yard fowl repeating what your political masters are saying? You guys really cause me to question this 98% literacy rate thing you are always boasting about.
Charles S.Cadogan Sr | June 26, 2011 at 3:13 PM |

All of this back and forth about what party did,or didn’t do isn’t doing shit for the poor and needy at this point in time; Bajans used to care for each other when I was a boy growing up in Barbados. But now all that seem to matter is making money and more money. While the little man get nothing in return; To hell with this politics. It’s time for all Bajans to take a stand for betterment of all. Spending Millions of dollars on all these different project to beautify or change Barbados isn’t helping what’s being shown in the video; Islandgal246 I respect you to the fullest for making an effort towards helping, and if others join in to do the same this will be a start; Time to put this dumb shit about the different parties who did,or didn’t do aside, or make them all accountable for their actions. No one in this day and age should be living under these conditions in Barbados; Start doing, and STOP TALKING; Follow what Islandgal246 is about to do. We are responsible for each other if we are so Christina minded. **WE ARE OUR BROTHERS KEEPERS**
Colonel Buggy | June 26, 2011 at 3:35 PM |

Now this place I would designate a World Heritage Site /Sight ,as these people have been living in these deplorable conditions for generations.
But why are we surprised? the people whom we elect to serve us in parliament are interest in two things mainly, (a) that No1 is No 1. (b) Like the despots in power across the world, erecting statues of themselves,but in Barbados these statues come in the form of the ABC Highway, Tom Adams Financial Centre, Sherbourne Conference Centre, The Villages etc etc., no matter what is the cost to the taxpayer. One wonders how many of these ‘low income’ residents that we have seen in this St Phillip video will or can qualify to own one of those homes in The Villages,or even able to rent one of those in Country Road or Tweedside Road.
The politicians really do laugh their balls off at the poor people of this country, who ,come next election will either retain the useless bastards who have done nothing for them in the last five years, or replace them with another set who will promise them the world, but will spent the next five years doing the same as their predecessors,and often blaming them when they cannot deliver.
We have our own Ghadaffis ,Castros and Chavez ,compliments the very same people of Barbados .
God Bless Bim.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 3:42 PM |

Robert Deschappé

“I have seen you DLP supporters come to this blog and state that Owen Arthur sold land to the highest bidder. Let us be fair, can you please tell me where is this land and to whom it was sold?”

I thought you had comon sense, but that question puts you in the same boat as the other BLP nincompoops.
Colonel Buggy | June 26, 2011 at 3:47 PM |

Thank God that we have a decent percentage of the population who do not support any political party, blindly or otherwise. These are the ones who change a government, as if it makes any difference, because come hell or high water the party political faithfuls , as we have seen ably demonstrated in these blogs, will represent their political parties to the hilt.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 3:47 PM |

“Start doing, and STOP TALKING; Follow what Islandgal246 is about to do. ”

That is exactly what the DLP is about.

No one wants ISLANDGAL246 throwoffs. Rusty galvanised sheets, rotten old boards . I don’t think even the Salvation Army would accept them.
Adrian Hinds | June 26, 2011 at 3:49 PM |

@Carson
Inspite of the BLP and its 14 year history, your DLP can be defeated by the economy. In fact I believe that in the minds of Barbadian electors, both parties are not worth their x and as such neither really has an edge come 2013.
Colonel Buggy | June 26, 2011 at 3:53 PM |

Robert Deschappé | June 26, 2011 at 3:08 PM |

You guys really cause me to question this 98% literacy rate thing you are always boasting about.

Roger that……….US 98%
islandgal246 | June 26, 2011 at 4:01 PM |

Carson Cadogan you ignorant selfish SOB. I am not like you so don’t judge me by your low standards. When last have you done something for someone less fortunate than you? You are one BIG pile of CAT SHIT!

The galvanize is in very good condition, even the man quoting for the job was surprised that we are taking it off. He said that it looked like it is just two to three years old even though it is older.

The problem with some people is that they don’t want to give away things that are in good condition. They prefer to sell it or throw it away. Those people who haven’t any roof covering I am sure they will welcome used roofing.
ac | June 26, 2011 at 4:14 PM |

CUH DEAR!
How about the lanlord that collects five dollars a week from the oldlady living in that dilapidated house and when question he said that he ask the government for a loan to fix it but they told him he must be living in the house to get a loan.
Clone | June 26, 2011 at 4:19 PM |

David
Indar Weir is playing tricks with the video. I watched it two times and recognized that he said a house was flooded as the water run down the road. The camera was panned down and then a different house was shown. That is the brilliant engineers fault not Michael Lashley. I find the engineers in Barbados like they operate only on book sense and no common sense. Just like Arch Cot.
Now I do a lot of driving around Barbados and I was shame when I drove through some villages in St.Peter up in Diamond corner and Boscobel. We have some serious housing problems to correct.
An example of poor housing not owned by the occupant is the old lady in Deans Village. That criminal, a TEACHER takes five dollars from this senior citizen every week and would not even buy a sheet of form ply to put on the house.
People are renting out 4X4 rooms for $150.00 a week and we are here talking about government. People live in the government houses for $45.00/month and have houses rented out. These are the houses the poor people should be getting.
Indar Weir can get some carpenters and do like the Indians repair a couple of houses and let the people pay $20.00 a week. He would get a lot of votes but maybe not as much as to save his deposit.
David | June 26, 2011 at 4:32 PM |

@Clone

The good thing about the video is that it shows we have some work to do. We have people living in deplorable conditions which begs the question what is Urban Development doing and what is the role of the CCs in identifying those in need.
ac | June 26, 2011 at 4:47 PM |

The system is blocked by some of the government policies. Some of these policies hurt more than help. i bet that some of those people and owners of those houses are still awaiting for loan approval from governments past and present over an extended period of time. Meanwhile the government overlooked these poor people while going ahead with massive loans to bail out big developers. One thing for sure is that “PEople are big part of of our Heritage” sometimes we are too quick to pat ourselves on the back “
Hants | June 26, 2011 at 5:00 PM |

| June 26, 2011 at 1:45 PM |
@ Hants
I regret learning of your partisan approach as I expect my fella Kolij bros to be very objective.

@ Moneybrain,

David would tell you that I don’t give a care (acquired canadian lingo) about your expectations.

I support the DLP and will never support another political party in Barbados
and it won’t matter much because I am 59years old an gine soon dead anyway.

Now I gine an watch Patrick Husbands ride Check your soul in de Queen’s plate.
I am a partisan supporter of Patrick an he ent went to Kolij but he as an awesome jockey.
Hants | June 26, 2011 at 5:11 PM |

Just saw this on TV.

Jockeys being introduced who are riding in the Queen’s plate.

My name is Patrick Husbands and I am from Barbados.
My name is Jono Jones and I am from Barbados.
My name is Slade Callaghan and I am from Barbados.

3 talented Bajans giving their homeland free publicity.

best of luck to the three of them but I hope Patrick wins.
Hants | June 26, 2011 at 5:14 PM |

Any of you who like horse racing can see the race on the cbc.ca web site.
starts in 25 minutes.
Not fooled | June 26, 2011 at 5:22 PM |

I welcome your comments David and the opportunity to put the DLP housing THRUST in FOCUS.

The evidence is as follows from January 2008 – present :

1. MARCHFIELD , St. Philip 30 houses built – All 30 now occupied by first time home owners. Prices ranged from $ 123,000.00 to $ 175,000,00 inclusive the price of land @ $5.00 per square foot.

2 bedroom 569 Sq.Ft
2 bedroom 644 Sq. Ft
3 bedroom 820 Sq. Ft

2. WORKHALL , St. Philip 44 houses built – All 44 now occupied by first time home owners. Prices ranged from $ 125,000.00 to $ 189,000,00 inclusive the price of land @ $5.00 per square foot.

2 bedroom 569 Sq.Ft
2 bedroom 644 Sq. Ft
3 bedroom 820 Sq. Ft

3. GREENS , St. George 51 houses built – 37 now occupied by first time home owners. Prices ranged from $ 121,000.00 to $ 179,000,00 inclusive the price of land @ $5.00 per square foot. Please note 14 applicants are at various stages of completing their mortgage arrangements.

2 bedroom 569 Sq.Ft
2 bedroom 644 Sq. Ft
3 bedroom 820 Sq. Ft

4. FOURHILL , St. Peter 40 houses built – 35 now occupied by first time home owners. Prices ranged from $ 124,000.00 to $ 181,000,00 inclusive the price of land @ $5.00 per square foot. Please note 5 applicants are at various stages of completing their mortgage arrangements.

2 bedroom 569 Sq.Ft
2 bedroom 644 Sq. Ft
3 bedroom 820 Sq. Ft

5. FRENCH VILLAGE , St. Peter 17 .houses built – 12 now occupied by first time home owners. Prices ranged from $ 119,000.00 to $ 176,000,00 inclusive the price of land @ $5.00 per square foot. Please note 5 applicants are at various stages of completing their mortgage arrangements.

2 bedroom 644 Sq. Ft

6. COVERLEY , Christ Church 334 houses built so far ( from a total of 1,028 houses project due to completed in 2014). 217 houses are either completely sold ( i.e Mortgage arrangements completed or soon to be completed), 117 residents have taken up residence thus far. Prices of these houses range from $ 289,00.00 ( 2 bedroom) to $ 342,000.00 (3 bedroom) INCLUSIVE OF FULL FURNITURE PACKAGES. i.e Get your keys and all amenities are there for your enjoyment

7. STUART LODGE , Tweedside Road, St. Michael 20 2 bedroom units built. Rental rates soon to be disclosed.

8. COUNTRY PARK TOWERS , Country Road, St. Michael 56 2 bedroom units built and 8 3 bedroom units built ( 64 Units in total). Rents from $ 180.00 – $ 200.00 per week. Selection of applicants to be completed by mid July 2011.

9. LANCASTER 1 & 2 , St. Peters , 85 Starter Homes under Construction.

10. PARISH LAND, St. Philips 112 Starter Homes under Construction.

11. WOODBOURNE, St. Philip 20 Starter Homes to be constructed.
4 of those houses are completed and the Housing Fair was held on 25th June 2011. Over 1,500 houses eager Barbadians attended.

12. VALERIE ,St. Michael 40 2 & 3 bedroom housing units under construction.

David, the prospective home owners are the ones determining the quick pace at which all these houses are being built by this SERIOUS & COMMITTED DLP Administration. WE promised them we would deliver affordable houses……and WE, according to them are delivering.

Never before 2008 were NHC applicants asked to show how much they can afford to own a house !

Therefore, the Rent – To – Own & Starter Home Programme were intensified by this DLP Administration to cater to those persons wishing to access housing in the $ 75,000.00 to $ 100,000.00 range INCLUSIVE OF LAND.

Here is how it works……The NHC build the houses and people become interested.

WE then say to those persons :

1. If you are not registered on the NHC database – SIGN UP.

2. Are you interested in a 2 or 3 bedroom house ?

3. Prospective homeowners are then asked to go their lending institution and let them indicate based on their salary and financial comittments how much money they qualify for in terms of a mortgage. A MORTGAGE CERTIFICATE is then prepared for the prospective homeowner and taken to NHC.

4. A search is then carried out at the Land Registry to make sure that the prospective homeowner does own a house/land…MUST BE A FIRST TIME HOME OWNER.

5. Once that prospective homeowner meets the qualification…..the negotiation is between their lawyer , their lending institution and the NHC Legal Unit.

6. When the transaction is completed – The NHC gets the money in FULL from the Lending institution, the prospective home owner NOW becomes home owner by receiving their keys from the NHC and pay their MONTHLY MORTGAGE payments to the LENDING INSTITUTION.

A win -win situation for all – The NHC makes some money – The financial institutions make some money = Barbadians finally get AFFORDABLE HOUSES that the BLP failed to deliver to them.

Barbadians over the past 3 years are acutely aware of the deception practiced by LIZ THOMPSON , OWEN ARTHUR & other BLP operatives.

Time for CHANGE came…….and is here to STAY !
just only asking | June 26, 2011 at 5:24 PM |

@thoughts

I dont rant that is the first thing. I considered myself an informed person and speak from a postition of knowledge. You cant fault my reasoning even if you try. Carcon has his own style, and mine is different from him. it has nothing to do with the minister being arrogant. Do you thiink he is responsible for the houses in those conditions?

What is Mr. Lashley to explain? that the houses are in deplorable conditions or how they reached that condiition or how he is performing as a Minister.. Since you said that you are a young person I would forgive you as you have not properly think through your question.

Do you think that the govt can repair every dilapidated house. Perhaps you might be one of those persons who oppose the establishment of Constituency Councils, but members of such bodies have been identifying such houses and referring them to the relevant bodies. People like you can also become very community minded and assist those persons who dont know how to get assistance, that is something i do on a daily basis, people like you can identify and seek out information to empower people with knowlege how they can get assistnce.

For example, National Housing has money available to give to people for house repairs and note i said give up to a maximun of $10 000. This is what i do inform people where they can get assistnce and it has nothing to do with spin.

I am not easily fooled by the the words young persons or non-partisan.

@David

You know very well your choice of word was not appropiate and by the way I have never been good as spin. The point is the BLP supporters want miracles, but in 14 years there were no miracles. I have no problem with objective analysis, but dont come tell me that the Minister owes people and explanation because of such deporable housing conditions. Come on David, you know you can do better than that,
David | June 26, 2011 at 5:27 PM |

@not fooled

Thank you!
Not fooled | June 26, 2011 at 5:31 PM |

Should read:

4. A search is then carried out at the Land Registry to make sure that the prospective homeowner does NOT own a house/land…MUST BE A FIRST TIME HOME OWNER.
Hants | June 26, 2011 at 5:45 PM |

@ Not fooled,

Thanks for the info.
ac | June 26, 2011 at 5:51 PM |

The system is boongogled and most of the homeowners have given up after being shafted around to the point of no return . So what is being shown in the picture is the aftermath of what could nave been avoided if government officials first sttood up and took notice. Is this what “Governent for the people by the people suppose to represent” give me a break!
David | June 26, 2011 at 5:53 PM |

@not fooled

Any one would have to agree this is impressive in the time frame of 3 years.

Could you advise what would be the range of mortgage payments and we acknowledge this number would change based on equity injection.
TrueBajanMan | June 26, 2011 at 6:17 PM |

@ not fooled

Great job
Hants | June 26, 2011 at 6:37 PM |

Headline in “mainstream”Barbados newspaper. ” Government goes for $200m loan”.

But it is the government of BERMUDA.

uh wunda effin duh hope people wud get vex an doan read de rest uh de story?
anthony | June 26, 2011 at 6:54 PM |

Well four season looking for another 40 million us before they start construction again. Think most people will be happy when that starts back.
740 | June 26, 2011 at 7:29 PM |

how much money ya got ta work fa to qualify for ah house for 100,000, or 123,000 or 179,000 ? and if ah police ,solider,fireman,bus driver and ah teacher are low income persons, de ppl in barbados that work for less than 1600 ah month wha ya does call them,i am 35yrs old and dont belong to no party but theses ppl in this bracket i live among and i hear them crying every day if de ppl i mentioned above are called low income de ones who work fa under 1600 wha ya does call them ??
Alien | June 26, 2011 at 7:36 PM |
ac | June 26, 2011 at 8:01 PM |

and i wonder if any of the people living in them houses in the videowould qualify for the new housesand if they don’t then what?the eysores in the video remains for the world to see! simply amazing!
the Scout | June 26, 2011 at 8:21 PM |

The picture painted in today’s sunday sun is not a very good one for the DLP coming from one of their senior members and seasoned economist. What will happen if this recession continues for a much longer period and these houses are left unoccupied?
checkit-out | June 26, 2011 at 8:22 PM |

NOt Fooled;

An excellent presentation of facts that appear to give the lie to statements by a number of posters about nuff houses being built but that few have been taken, etc. It would be useful if some of the people making such statements would respond to “not fooled”.
Prodigal Son | June 26, 2011 at 8:25 PM |

Not fooled sounds just like the minister talking. I drive around and I dont see all of these houses occupied as he is saying. Anyway, for those who purchased them, good for them. If the minister wants thanks, I say thank you.

But you Dems cant have it both ways. I heard Minister Stephen Lashley boasting last night and taking the credit and giving some to Steve Blackett for Bridgetown being designated a world heritage site. Now if Bridgetown was still in its dilapidated condition, would Bridgetown have been given the designation? I think not!

My take is that the government is building a lot of unsuitable, unfinished tiny houses for the so called poor people. They have turned Barbados into mendicant society. The BLP way is to provide the infrastructure and framework and let the people build what they want. The houses are too expensive for the average poor person who are the ones who really need the housing.

An acquaintance of mine who is a diehard Dem got one and poor soul with three children the place is so cramped because she could only afford a two bedroom. I told her she would have been better off taking the money and building a green heart house, it would have been much bigger than the match box she has.

Tell me, would the minister or any of the DLP bigups ever live in one of these match boxes being offered up as houses???
the Scout | June 26, 2011 at 8:27 PM |

C C C
I am convinced you are a member of the BLP party, because what you are doing is causing many readers to dislike the DLP party. If you are really a DLP yardfowl, you are crowing out of tune and doing a dis-service to the party. Even a FOOL when he/she keeps his/her mouth shut, is counted WISE. Food for thought.
Prodigal Son | June 26, 2011 at 8:32 PM |

Not fooled,
Tell me who is going to pay Jada for all of these houses if they are not sold? The taxpayers???

I went to Coverley on the open day and one of the workers who was carting around people said to me [after I told the person that I see a lot of "sold signs" up] my man, as soon as all of you are gone, I have to go and pick back up those signs. Those “sold signs” were put up for show to make people believe that the houses are selling.

So minister, bring proof that over 200 of the Coverley houses are sold. I cant think that anyone in their right mind would pay over $300,000 for any of them.
Prodigal Son | June 26, 2011 at 8:36 PM |

Re the loan,
It would have to be a mistake, this government cannot borrow money on the world market, we are just above junk status. Maybe, I should say, they can but the interest rate would be prohibited.Look what we come to!
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 8:44 PM |

SCOUT

I fool because I disagree with everything you say?

Then I will remain a fool, as nothing you say make any sense at all and I will continue to disagree with you.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 26, 2011 at 8:48 PM |

PRODIGAL SON

“I told her she would have been better off taking the money and building a green heart house”

You mean the type HARDWOOD HOUSES sold?

BTW how many houses did hardwood houses sell under the BLP?
BAFBFP | June 26, 2011 at 9:07 PM |

David
“BU believes the PM has taken Urban to bolster his position in his riding which has always been marginal at best.”
This sum up situation velly good …
BAFBFP | June 26, 2011 at 9:10 PM |

Blasted member of local Jack Ass community, not solve any problem .. replace one with another …no?
David | June 26, 2011 at 10:01 PM |

This video has generated tremendous interest on Facebook.

The popular feeling seems to be and outpouring of love for those living in such conditions in 2011.

Kammie Holder is talking about arranging a grocery drive.

Indar Weir is being condemned by many for not doing something about the plight of those he wants to serve.

Perhaps by cutting the video he thought he had done something.

Do not trivialize the power of the 100,000 plus Facebook Bajan posse and others in social media.

The traditional media is making the mistake and it will comeback to bite all of them.
pretty blue eyes | June 26, 2011 at 10:05 PM |

To everyone, yes some people have their priorities wrong, yes some of the houses were like that before the DLP came into power but give jack he jacket, in BLP times many poor people benefited from their policies.Michael Lashley is a lotta talk, the only people I see befitting are the rich owners of the Coverly project and the like, if Michale Lashley really cared about his constituents many of them would be in a better position by now, my goodnes this is 3 years they were in, ya mean they gine keep on blaming the BLP for emptying the treasury and leaving nothing for them to work with.If the treasury is really empty as they claim, then we definitely have the party in power.For a party that has vision can look at a glass and see it half full, they see the silver lining around the cloud and they get up and work with what they have. I hope the public servants understand they aint getting a raise this year, they can look for that late next year.
Chuckles | June 26, 2011 at 10:08 PM |

Bajans are the happiest people in the world. Over 9 million people have lost their homes due to foreclosure in the USA and the American Government , with an AAA+/Stable rating by Moody’s and Standard’s & Poor’s, can’t help them. However, the Barbados Government with a junkyard rating, must house all the unfortunate people whose houses have deteriorated to a delapidated state. I like Miss Mottley’s advice that the Moodys rating is a wake-up call and it is time to change how we are doing business. Unfortunately that includes operations at Urband and Rural Development.
David | June 26, 2011 at 10:10 PM |

@Chuckles

Although we have not seen Dereck Alleyne around BU recently we know he reads so perhaps your plea will not fall on deaf ears.
just only asking | June 26, 2011 at 10:16 PM |

@Pretty Blue eyes

Public Officers would rather have a job than have an increase and force Governemnt to lay off those who are not appointed. which side would you like to be on?.
thoughts | June 26, 2011 at 10:19 PM |

*sigh* @ just only saying.
Firstly, it was you who indicated that the minister owes no one an explanation. I disagreed! The houses are in his constituency, no? No where did I indicate that Mr.Lashley was displaying arrogance. Re-read my post!
Now, let me thank you for insulting my youthful intellect. Nice to also know that you are not easily fooled by the words “young person” or “non-partisan”.BTW, many young persons visit this site daily, some contributing, others just shaking their heads with wonder.OH, I also forgot: a lot of us are NON-PARTISAN. We vote according to how we perceive the ones seeking the mandate to SERVE US. And come 2013, a lot of us might not vote AT ALL!
We surely don’t care about the blame game which you and CCC do so well nor the partisan politics of Prodigal Son or Truthman Burton.
From your posts, you are apparently an older gentleman. I, and all other young people, are the future, you may continue to ignore that…
David | June 26, 2011 at 10:20 PM |

Good advice Just Only Asking.

Some of the commentary shows that many Bajans continue to be in denial about what is happening in the global arena.

In fact there is the distinct feeling by the BU household sometimes many live on Mars.
Enuff | June 26, 2011 at 10:24 PM |

These houses in question are in need of repair, so new houses in Coverley or units at Country Road or Carrington Village are irrelevant. Given that they are in St. Philip North means that assistance should come from the Rural Development Commission. Rather than tell us how much houses the Ministry of Housing built, we should be told the number repaired by RDC since 2008, which would give us a better understanding as to why these houses are still in disrepair. What about the money voted for Tomas? But didn’t Lashley visited and never returned?

FACT: Between 2003 and 2007 the Rural and Urban Development Commissions together improved the housing conditions (new and repairs) of over two hundred households per year. Source – BLP website

FACT: In 1995 of the 33 600 houses in the Greater Bridgetown Area, the age of 26 300 was known and 17 500 or 2/3 were over 15 years old, 4600 were between 10-15 years and 4200 less than 10 years. Source – Urban Renewal Programme (GBA)

The truth is that the Bees could never have realistically fixed all the poor housing between 1997 -2008; and the Dems can’t in 3, 4, 5, 6, 10 or more. We are talking about WOODEN houses, which ROT, and therefore every financial year more houses are added to the ‘poor stock’ list. So even houses that the Bees repaired during their tenure may very well now be in need of repair again. Indar Weir just giving the Dems a taste of their own medicine.

To repeatedly claim that Owen was busy selling land to foreigners is utter nonsense. Most of the projects Not Fooled listed were started by the BLP. I would refrain from boasting about Coverley though because it is a disaster whether 1, 200 or ALL are sold; and the infilling in Valery etc is another poor decision. Quantity is not quality!!!
raymond | June 26, 2011 at 10:41 PM |

The poor will always be with us.However, that is no excuse for political oppression. Lashley or no Lashley (the arrogant bread fruit swappa)The present regime has had its time.POKER ANYONE?……Indar!!!! wait until they dealing down de river or fold early.
Moneybrain | June 27, 2011 at 12:06 AM |

@ Hants

I was only mekking mock sport! Both the Bs and Ds have had there good and bad policies. My view is that any Govt needs to focus on improving the opportunity for all and the lynch pin is creating the right environment for JOB growth and entrepreneurial activity.
Tell me Why | June 27, 2011 at 1:06 AM |

I believe the submission by Not fooled | June 26, 2011 at 5:22 PM |is questionable. I would like to know who are these “first time home owners” that are purchasing homes in the listed areas. Don’t even talk about the ridiculously priced homes in Coverley. Check the ad for Ideal Homes in the Sunday Sun (Classified 10) and see the 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom or 3 bedroom, 2-bathroom homes on 3,281.70 sq. ft. costing $342,000.00. You can build another 3 bedroom apartment on your property. Compare Coverley’s house which is 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms on 1,012 sq ft with no boundaries for privacy costing $342,000.00. For someone to purchase a Coverley house. That person(s) must be working for over five thousand dollars, single or combined. Now tell me the single bus driver, policeman, nurse etc who are working for $5,000.00 per month?
I am just showing that “Not Fooled” is trying to fool people regarding occupancy of these homes, but I am saying that these figures are all amplified since a good set of these homes are still awaiting purchasers. I went to the house fair on Saturday and not even 500 people were present.
BTW, what about the houses in in front St. George Secondary?
I ain’t fooled.
Tell me Why | June 27, 2011 at 1:11 AM |

Carson. How about purchasing one of those Coverley houses for your University daughter?
weary baje | June 27, 2011 at 3:09 AM |

Interesting facts submitted by “not fooled” .
Are you aware that mortgage is based on ONLY one third of a person salary?
How many persons working for $400 or less can qualify for a mortgage to buy one of those starter home that cost in excess of $100 000?

How many of those “first time home owners” who got house were on the NHC waiting list? How long were they on the list?

Regarding the video:
Give a man a fish he will come back the next day for more, teach him to fish, he can fish every day for himself.
Housing in any country is a social program and any good housing policy should have an balance between giving and teaching. It is for this very reason why it is impossible to focus on building a society without building a strong economy.The two must be together for the good of all.
What good is there of having a house and not having a Home? Or what good is there of having a home and not having proper shelter?
Every man’s home is his castle but every castle is not a home.
A word to the wise!!
weary baje | June 27, 2011 at 3:34 AM |

To those who are not easily fooled by the words “young persons and non partisan” , insulting the young intelligence will help you little. I figure that you are not aware that it was the young voters who made the change administration possible and not the elderly. Do not think all the young electorate can be swayed by feting and a five bag. Most young people are intelligent and care little for partisan politics and politicians. They observe the issues and the policies to deal with the issues. I fully agree with the comments of “thought” …the young voting next time around is an illusion.
j | June 27, 2011 at 5:41 AM |

To Weary Baje

I can claim to be a young person even though i am in the departue lounge, We are all hiding behind pseudonyms. I can claim that i am non-partisan even though my writinigs can show differently. The crux of the matter is, it is the contents in our writings that eventaully tell whether a person is partisan or not. Believe me, if someone writes often on this blog,especailly on politcal matters his/her perspective will be revealed. That is why i said my preference is for the DLP, but when i have to criticize the party i will. I will let this blog sphere know why i will never vote for the BLP again. yES note that i have said AGAIN.

Just like the sociologist can go througH you garbage over a period of time and determine the qaulity of life you are/have enjoyed. There are strategies that can be used to determine whether a person writing is subjecitive or objective and key words will tell you. Sometimes we use ceratins words to connote sympathy, but our writings invariably will give us away. That what some people have been trained to do. Sometimes you look for certain words. Over thirty years ago, while studying use of English we were though to look at articles and to get the writer perspective. All of us on this blog has a political liking, believe it or not,

I will not underestimate the value of the young people’s vote, but i think you have your wires crossed. it is the mature voter that constantly go out to vote, the young persons in a lot of instances ask what they are going to get in return. I have seen it over and over and over. By the way, in a lot of cases, the young persons’ support for a particular party is achieved through socialistion by his parents or family members.

There are times when the young person are mobilised on an issues, but in general they are the hardest category of persons to persusde to go out and vote.

Please try another emotional tug, i am not easily fooled, experience is our wisest teacher. I say what i mean, and mean what i say.
jujst only asking | June 27, 2011 at 5:42 AM |

the Blog above is from Just Only Asking
Alien | June 27, 2011 at 5:48 AM |

Mr. Weir, in conclusion, if you only see obstacles here and no solutions, what can you really do about the enormous challenges to our country? Simply reverting to old, failed approaches surely will not work. So, if you wish to be elected, show us something new to solve this constituency problem before asking us to elevate you to solving national problems. Telling us that another person failed does not provide any indication that you will succeed.
jujst only asking | June 27, 2011 at 5:50 AM |

the Blog above is from Just Only Asking and should also be addressed to at thoughts.
David | June 27, 2011 at 6:04 AM |

With regard to affordability, if you go to the Internet and pull up a mortgage calculator, a 100,000 mortgage, assume 5% equity i.e. a bank loan of $95,000, the repayment is about $600.00 per month assuming a rate of 6.5%.
David | June 27, 2011 at 6:27 AM |

A look at the Central Bank reports from 2010 to April 2011 shows an increase in mortgages for private dwellings from 1.51 billion to 1.65 a net increase of about 145 million between January and April 2011.
thoughts | June 27, 2011 at 7:32 AM |

So,mr.asking,
If it is the mature voter who constantly goes out to vote, obviously along party lines, who do you think makes the difference? What was the change in voter turnout in ’08? Waste of time arguing with you…If you were so highly trained in deciphering English try to make sense of this: first time I ever voted in my life was 2008 for the Democratic Labour Party. NEVER EVER voted for the BLP. My MP is a cool guy and communicates well!! I say again to you be careful how you marginalise people. So I am not writing like 25 huh, you think all of us are dumb?? You have a good day.
just only asking | June 27, 2011 at 8:16 AM |

Thoughts

You tell me, i have not seen the statistics, and by the way tell me whatt percentage of young people voted in the last election, you research it and tell me. Futher, it is the floating voter wo decides the election and that can inlude mature and young people. When you disaggregate the data you should be able to tell me the % of young people who voted, Further, you can go back a few elctions and see if there is a pattern of high turnout among the youth.

What I can assure you, is that every member of my immediate family voted in the last elections and in prevoius elections. We have socialised them it is their civic responsibility and the only time anyone dont vote is if he or she is out of the country

Cleary you have a problem with self esteem. No where did i refer to you as dumb. I only resort to such beviour if i am called names. I have a right to put my point of view and you yours. I dont really care who you voted for, remember these are my point of view so you have a choice to vote d or b or dont vote at all, although i would suggest that you vote .

I have voted in every election from 1981 and the reason why i did not vote in 76, my first time to vote, was i left the county to study August 30 and elections were called for i think september 07. I was real disappointed.

If you cant stand the heat stay out of the kitchen. Dont expect to be treated with kidsgloves on this site. You must be prepared to defend your position, This site has the rought and tumble and the mild. You should not be concerned with how i think about you prespective, but be man enough to respond to me in a way that will make me rereat if your argument is sound.

Have a wonderful day and harden up. David will tell you that there are people who have attacked one another like savages on this site. I only staarted blogging about three months ago. One thing David will tell you that I have attacked his postion and we eventaully agree to disagrre with no ill feelingsW
Carson C. Cadogan | June 27, 2011 at 8:53 AM |

“There are times when the young person are mobilised on an issues, but in general they are the hardest category of persons to persusde to go out and vote.”

So true!

I had this conversation with a very seasoned political campaigner recently. He told me the very same thing. This is a man who was campaigning since the 1960′s.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 27, 2011 at 9:04 AM |

weary baje

“How many persons working for $400 or less can qualify for a mortgage to buy one of those starter home that cost in excess of $100 000?”

I would risk a bet that you own a home.
However you and the other BLP supporters on this blog are doing your utmost to disuade other Bajans from taking hold of a first class opportunity to own their first home.

You Barbados Labour Party people are just plain SICK.
You reached the top of the ladder and now its your intention to kick it down.

I think what we are looking at here is classism at its worse!
Carson C. Cadogan | June 27, 2011 at 9:12 AM |

TELL ME WHY

“Carson. How about purchasing one of those Coverley houses for your University daughter?”

I have already told my daughter about the Govt.housing programs.
Carson C. Cadogan | June 27, 2011 at 9:22 AM |

PRETTY BLUE EYES

The old people had a saying:

” I rather your room than your company”, that applies nicely to you . Pick sense from that.
740 | June 27, 2011 at 11:29 AM |

i dont know why some people are claiming to be the youth when they dont have ah clue how the so many young people voted last election,well let me tell some of u why some of de young voted, and i speak only for the ones living down by me in what some of u would called de gettho, or would not even drink 2 beers down here or tek ah short cut down this side to get to de main road ,first de youtes did like de HON David Thompson when we go to we shows and fetes he was always there and would blend in nice even if we were smoking we thing in de back could not say de same thing fa Owen ya would never see he round nutting so plus we were told he sells off to de rich and got cost of living high ,and round election time de D’s give we 2 FREE and nice reggae shows first time that ever happen so they said we fa he ,he like wha we like! so some of de youth remember i only speaking for de ones down by me had this thing in mind that when de D’s come to power they gine really look out for getto people and so said de ones on de block that knows nothing about voting or politics and dont real care; and after getting some 100′s and 50′s and long necks to drink give up ah right that black people fought hard and died for, fa lil change and de impression that them gine get to smoke cause de new PM is ah irie man dem even say “man he driver is ah dread” so de preasure gine ease up lil bit cause he understand we way of life ,so they got up and voted ah lot of them for the very first time,remember i only speaking for de ones i know and what i have written is ah fact ask de block boys ,REAL THING .
just only asking | June 28, 2011 at 6:13 AM |

Sometime i am amazed at what come from some of the fingers on this blog. Barbadians have a penchant for house ownership. The govt is trying is darnest to provide more barbadians with an opportunity to own their homes, and this action is being citicized such as; the houses are too small and they dont worth what is being charged.

If people think that they can get the same size house on the open market cheaper they have a choice. Sorry opp0rtunities like that were not around when i built my house. The problem with some of us, we have acqired a taste for expensive things even thugh we have money in our pockets that can only acquree a bottle of maughby. Whats wrong with having a small house and expanding as your economic means improve. In my mother days she used to add on a romm to the little old house as she accumalated a little money from selling the stocks(not the one in companies) that is the animlas, or from selling in fairchild stree market, or walking through bellville and town selling the cooked the sea eggs. Now we want every thing instantly, We dont want to make the sacrifice.

Another thing houses will appear small when you have overpwering equipment, and furniture to squeeze into them.

@Island Gal

You know me and you like the fowl pen, but dont mind carson go ahaead and doante the roofing to whoever you can. We need more people to be our brother’s keeper and help the less fortunate when they can. I do from time to time.

@Bonny Peppa

Wait you like you gone dead, i aaint hear from you yah fah a while now. Yah betta come back to life.

.
St George's Dragon | June 28, 2011 at 8:31 PM |

This post started on the poor quality of housing.
The DLP seems to have made an effort to deliver on their election pledge to produce housing. Looking at the prices given by “Not Fooled” above, the costs they are building the developments for are not unreasonable. Greens, St George works out at around $175/square foot (excluding land), which looks about right for a development like this.
There are certainly questions you could ask about the delivery of these developments. For instance, what is happening at Constant? It has seemingly come to pretty much of a halt on site, perhaps because the contractor is from memory, CLICO builders. Not the best known contractor in Barbados. In fact, I don’t know of anything else they have ever built. You have to ask how they were selected and why they didn’t give the job to someone who could deliver.
You could also question the allocation of units. Ester Byer-Suckoo’s statement the other day, in response to the accusation by Mia Mottley that several of the few units occupied at Greens were housing DLP supporters, failed to clear the air. Ms Byer-Suckoo was quoted as saying that she “has pulled no strings nor has given any “special favours””. That, in the humble opinion of this non-politician, is not good enough. Ms Byer-Suckoo has not answered the main substance of the allegation, which is that that amongst the residents are the constituency assistant to the MP and the former DLP branch secretary for St George South.
The two may be the most appropriately qualified to get units, but it strains credibility that just by coincidence, they were the best qualified and both got units without pressure being applied somewhere. It would be entirely possible to tell us who applied for these units, when, and how they were allocated, but I guess that we will never be told this information. We are left instead with a nasty smell.
The point of this rather long post, though, is this. The majority of the new housing programme seems to be aimed at middle class Bajans who will buy the units at a subsidised price, $5/square foot being far less than the market price of the land.
I have no problem with Government helping people get a foot on the housing ladder but I question whether the allocation of funding is correct between the Government middle class new build housing like Greens and the spend on renovation of poor quality old housing (like in the film clip).
If one Greens house costs $160,000 to build, how many poorly maintained old houses could you get back into a decent condition for the same cost? 10? 15?
Is it better to get 1 middle class Bajan on the housing ladder, or to put 15 poor people in decent housing?
I don’t know the answer but I think it needs to be debated as I am not sure we have it right at the moment.
Hants | June 28, 2011 at 9:06 PM |

@ just only asking.

The average Bajan aspires to ownership of a mansion. Some have chosen to rent a 2500 sq.ft house rather than buy a 1200 sq. ft house.

Even now at my advanced age of 59 I would rather live in the chattel house I grew up in.

That house was a home.
looking for the sagicor funds | June 28, 2011 at 11:41 PM |

under wear at it again i see
Sargeant | June 28, 2011 at 11:49 PM |

Kudos to the BLP to get BU which is arguably the most popular blog in the island to run a campaign ad for them which targets the Minister who is seen as one of the most able Ministers in Gov’t. If the BLP wants to criticize the Housing policies per se then it is grist for the mill but to focus on St. Philip North and some poor residents who live in dilapidated houses is taking dishonesty to a new low..

I can go to every constituency in Barbados and find houses in similar condition, should the MP who represents the area be responsible for ensuring that all of these homes be upgraded to an acceptable level? If it is expected that a Gov’t Minister provide adequate housing for every resident in his constituency what is his responsibility for other citizens who live in constituencies whose representative is a Member of the Opposition Party?

The campaign ad mentions flooding which has occurred in the district and concludes that the Minister hasn’t rectified the problem. If they are busy looking for people to blame for not doing anything about flooding how come Owen Arthur’s constituency is not immune from flooding? Arthur was PM for 14 years why didn’t he summon all the experts at his disposal to ensure that his constituents did not suffer from any flood related problems? Does anyone remember what happened in St. Peter as recently as March and April?

The campaign ad confirms my opinion that the BLP takes the voters of this island to be unintelligent and not far removed from “corn beef and biscuit” politics.
David | June 28, 2011 at 11:59 PM |

@Sarge

Our position is consistent, place whatever under the microscope and let the chips fall wherever.

In this case it is evident the video by Weir has backfired somewhat.

Yes we have some needy folks in St. Philip North but comparatively speaking Minister doesn’t have a real case to answer.
Sargeant | June 29, 2011 at 12:30 AM |

Consistent with what? I wouldn’t mind if the ad was inserted into a story about Housing as a comment, but you provided it with a heading of its own and invited feed back. You commented that it was a disgrace for such housing to exist in St. Philip North in 2011. The substandard housing in St. Philip North does not exist in a vacuum, it exists all over the island.

You provided Weir and the BLP with the veneer of compassion, a most lamentable effort on your part.
just only asking | June 29, 2011 at 2:16 AM |

@DAVID

SO you have agreed with me that the Minister has no case to answer. i said so very early and as you would recalled i said the word disgrace was, in a nutshell not appropately used.

@Sargeant

I agree with you. Sometimes David will pull one hoping to get away with it.
ac | June 29, 2011 at 4:50 AM |

As usual everybody has a political axe to grind.The compassion shouldbe for the people living under those horrendous cicumstances and not for anyone party or political person..The condition of those houses did not happen overnight and both political paries ar equally guity for not doing something about it.The message in the video is clear. Those who have eyes to see “Let them see” Those who have ears to hear”Let them hear”
David | June 29, 2011 at 5:11 AM |

@ac

You are correct, we always want to frame our arguments along the political lines. If the video caused Lashley and Urban to tweak policy we are satisfied. caused Lashley and Urban to tweak policy we are satisfied.
Rosemary Parkinson | June 29, 2011 at 9:47 AM |

I would have thought that the churches all over Barbados that start off with a tent and end with one huge building could have used part thereof of their takings from all the humble and poor who give them their last cent to go around and ensure that their parishioners have a proper roof over their heads. I understand about politicians, but I do not understand about so-called men of God turning a blind eye, living the life of Riley, driving around in big car and collecting monies every week seemingly to keep their lifestyle going…..Church for thought???
Bonny Peppa | June 29, 2011 at 5:12 PM |

Inda Wear

Waittttttt, you now learn how ta use a camcorda? stupseeeeeee. ya shood be shameeeeeee. Den again , ya in got nun. Shame on you.

Michael Lashley
Ya doin a grate job. doan mind de detracktors. Keep up de fight.
(I would like ta meet ya one a dese daze. Name de place)
Truthman Burton | June 29, 2011 at 9:14 PM |

Bonny, we haven’t spoken for a long time. There is something over at Barbados Free Press that would definitely interest you. As a matter of fact, it would please your heart.

Go there and check out that “Boston Crab” position that dey put you boy Donville Inniss in, with that website called “ORGASM.COM”.
Bonny Peppa | June 30, 2011 at 6:50 AM |

Truthman
Tanks, but I doan ‘visit’ dem places. If um in pun BU, sorry.
just only asking | June 30, 2011 at 7:30 AM |

@Bonny Peppa

Wait you like went to sleep for age. You really repond to truthman. He cant cause Donville any discomfort so rebuke he in the name of Jesus amen.

I tell you stop druling over them politicians and tall men. Try and dont disappear fuh so long next time.
Bonny Peppa | June 30, 2011 at 6:38 PM |

Truthman
I rebuke you in Jesus name, Amen.

Just only asking
LOL
I rebuke he in Jesus name, Amen. AAighttttttttt?

Listen, I luv Donville n Estwick bad, bad, baddddddddd. ya cud add Freundel ta de list tu.De day or de hour I evva get close ta Donville, he gun be rale sorry he din meet me soona ya kno. I jus luv dem sexy, dreamy eyez dat he got man. I cud jus imagin he ‘gettin it on’ man. Evrybody dat kn me does call he ‘my’ man. I knowz good stuff when i see um. LOLL

But serious doe, dat pissy rat Indra Ware not get access ta a camcorda? Wah gawwww bleahhhhhhhhhh, he is a rale puss-cee fa tru. stupseeeeeee.

I gun disappear bout de nex tree weeks from now. N.Y bong. Me n de lil picknee.
Bonny Peppa | June 30, 2011 at 6:46 PM |

Jus only Asking

You does folla de Crop-Ova chunes?

Rite now my fav’rit chune is:

‘Ben-ova n doan look back, ben ova n doan look back’.

Dah chune rale swoiteeeeeee. I try doing um de udda day. Ah mean de ben ova n doan look back. When I try ta straiten up my back, um creaks like a ol door. My lil whuns had ta rub me dong wid musterole n candle-greese.
So na mo ‘bennin ova n doan look back” fa me bosey. I gun jess lissen n tap ma foot.
islandgal246 | June 30, 2011 at 6:52 PM |

Hola Bonny, yuh ole wutless ting yuh, I taut yuh did over an away ahreddy. Well yuh aint gine hear but yuh gine feel wukking up tah dem calypsos. Yuh betta request a wheel chair at de airport. Hav a gud vacciones.
just only asking | June 30, 2011 at 7:32 PM |

Well Bonny

I gun soo be on a plane going real far far a msut gun reach day in a day and a half, so when you get back i gun now be coming back. i glad that you at yah witty self agiin.

so mek sure yah anjoy yah self, i prepaaring fah jump in a crop over band ah aint jump fah ion, and come september ah gine fah labour day. ah anjoying mah self cause yah aint no how long yah ot to live. next time ah see donville ah gun put in a word fah yah, but wait though. I though you only like tallie, donville is a shortie,

Enjoy yah vacation and carry long yah musterrol and yah bejies and little epson salt bosie.,

As for indar weir, he should try something different. I think it backfired on him.
smooth chocolate | July 31, 2011 at 5:49 PM |

i am shocked and saddened that our people still live like this, when it does NOT have to be. the minister of housing has but won’t explain why st ph.N is the way it is. i spoke to an officer at NHC last week and he was lamenting the travesty of what happened to Coverley, he said 500 hundred persons who really needed housing, in one swoop were disadvantaged. there was no way that NHC should have handed that project over to Jada…no way…sad indeed. i sincerely hope that those people in St Ph N could get all the help they need..shameful
smooth chocolate | July 31, 2011 at 6:19 PM |

@islandgal246 | June 26, 2011 at 9:34 AM |
“What has happened to the poverty alleviation fund? Is there one?”

there is no longer a poverty alleviation bureau. all its officers were mainstreamed into the ministry of social care. if people such as those in the video need help, it is thru social care, who would then utilized the other agencies which would have been rural development but now,. rural is no longer under social care so i don’t guess the people would have to apply thru that new ministry (kellman’s ministry). when Sinckler was Minister of Social Care many persons got there houses repaired or new houses. some costing as much as or about $60,000. i don’t know what kind of help the housing minister was doing then, but Sinckler took care of his end. i think those people too should see Todd who I am told does little talk but alot of action, at least he is one of the good ones along with Sinckler
smooth chocolate | July 31, 2011 at 6:31 PM |

@just only asking | June 26, 2011 at 10:25 AM |
“Are you aware that there is a grant of ten thousand dollars that home owners can get to repair their homes…”

u were making good progress until u mentioned the grant. u can check for urself and see the numerous stipulations that are attached to the grant. i will mentioned just one. “u must show proof that u have been approved for a loan for renovations to the house”.

for heaven’s sake how can an unemployed individual be approved for a loan when they have no income to repay it? that stipulation alone has knocked out many, many poor people and even if some were working, do u think the bank will give them a loan knowing that their income cannot cover it?

it is all well and good to throw out those things but check and tell me how much of those unemployed persons that need their house repaired and cannot afford a loan, got the $10,000 grant?
Christopher Halsall | July 31, 2011 at 6:45 PM |

@smooth chocolate: “it is all well and good to throw out those things but check and tell me how much of those unemployed persons that need their house repaired and cannot afford a loan, got the $10,000 grant?

Please help me understand this…

A grant (by definition, a gift) will only be given to those who are able to be underwritten for a loan?

That sounds a little fscked up to me….
smooth chocolate | July 31, 2011 at 6:51 PM |

i don’t know why people are making out as if the michael lashley did such and such. and jack donkey knows that what has come to fruition in terms of housing projects, had their genesis during the BLP’s reign. there was an election, they lost but the DLP took up the mantle as it was something the bajan public needed. i cannot believe that u mature adults still think that when a party brings something to the table, that it was they who planted the seed. man grow up, why not ask someone u think u trust at the NHC, what year those projects began? even with the Drug service, patient paying for meds. issue, that started with Jerome Walcott but changed of government put a halt to it and the same BLP had the public believing the DLP started something to the detriment of the public. i have no political pundits, i care for none but open ur eyes people, Lashley came and took credit for something that was an embryo from the BLP. but as i see it now, he messed it up.. it seems to me that the very people who should be getting assistance are as usual being left behind. We should be our brother’s keeper, we should want to see the poor man relieved of his suffering. all i am seeing are those who have, seeking any which way to get more at the expense of the poor.

do u think that people should be living under those conditions in the video? yes the BLP had 14 years and had things on paper only. while the grass was growing, the horses were starving. the DLP are doing the very same thing now.

every damn thing in barbados has to be BLP, DLP, i am sick to my stomach of that crap. which ever party is in power, comes and robs this people and no one helps. they look to grab as much as possible, knowing their time could be short. look at the homes gline clarke has, the apartments by mia, liz etc, muscle mary and i could go on. now look are the ones the some in the DLP have that they did not acquire before 2008. all at the expense of we the people
the Scout | July 31, 2011 at 8:39 PM |

Smooth Chocolate
You are so right, I’ve been trying to say for a long time both parties are playing a relay race with usa the public, one party run a few legs then pass the baton on to the other. At the end they all get in the back room and boost about how much each of them get out of the voters. Imagine the road in Duncans where the Transport Board bus traverse after dark at night, that road has pockets of PAVED road in the POTHOLES. Some of these potholes are sooooo deep that an average car driving slowly can damage the undercarriage of the vehicle, pedestrians have to walk off road at some areas to avoid the LAKES that are formed when the rain falls, I’m sure Mr Lashley don’t pass through there.
smooth chocolate | July 31, 2011 at 8:40 PM |

Christopher Halsall | July 31, 2011 at 6:45 PM |
” tell me how much of those unemployed persons that need their house repaired and cannot afford a loan, got the $10,000 grant?”

That’s the point i was trying to make, the money is there as a grant but those stipulations would hinder those who really need it. to answer ur question, NONE can qualify for the grant. i think that it was a wicked and malicious clause to put in there… the ones who that money was approved for will be the ones who cannot get it because some jack fool at the NHC decided that they should not get free money and if he had to work for his, then they should too
smooth chocolate | July 31, 2011 at 9:03 PM |

the Scout | July 31, 2011 at 8:39 PM |

no michael lashley will not pass thru there. it’s no profit to him now but he certainly will if he had too in 2013
smooth chocolate | July 31, 2011 at 9:04 PM |

sorry, correction “,,,he certainly will if he had to in 2013″
Pieter Pieper | August 1, 2011 at 10:54 PM |

Wouldn’t it make more sense to build apartment buildings ? Would not more people be accomodated on less land (thereby freeing up land for the production of food and other ventures)?Wouldn’t it be cheaper per unit both in terms of materials and time taken ? Wouldn’t it be better in terms of upkeep especially for the elderly,disabled and even the lazy who never make proper use of the land upon which these starter/smaller homes are built ? Would it not make it more difficult for greedy surviving relatives to come forward making claims on property because the newly repaired house, repaired at tax-payers expense,now has a few of the old boards from the previously dilapidated old house etc. etc.Isn’t it time to save time and money by building “up” and not “out”? Think about it !
Hants | August 1, 2011 at 11:59 PM |

@ Pieter Pieper,

Apartment buildings higher than 3 stories require elevators, laundry rooms garbage disposal, sprinklers and fire hoses etc.

This type of housing should be built for the “upwardly mobile” who can afford to pay 2 or 3 thousand a month for housing.

IMHO It would also be better to have built luxury (5000 sq.ft.) high rise condos at Apes Hill and Royal Westmoreland instead of houses on 1 acre lots.

Your idea is a good one even for low income people but good maintenance and security is paramount.
the Scout | August 2, 2011 at 4:59 AM |

Pieter Piper
I agree with you, we need more buildings like the London Bourne Towers, or the Country Road Towers. It would have made more sense to build a number of these at Coverley and some of the other areas where a large number of ” fowl coups” have been built. More land would have been freed up for other projects, like agriculture while giving a more open air atmosphere.