Earlier today, June 12, 2023, ten (10) representatives across the southern region of Trinidad and Tobago received their letters of appointment to serve on the respective Victoria East and St Patrick East Local Board of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services. The Letters of Appointment were presented by Senator the Honourable Donna Cox, Minister of Social Development and Family Services following a meeting with the new Board members at the Ministry’s Head Office, St. Vincent Street, Port of Spain. Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Lenor Baptiste Simmons; and Deputy Permanent Secretary Ryan Ramcharan.
The Board is expected to serve for a period of three (3) years and will act as a liaison between clients and the Ministry. The core duties of the Local Board include controlling, directing and assisting Local Boards in administering the core grants under the responsibility of the Social Welfare Division (Public Assistance Grant, Senior Citizens’ Pension and Disability Assistance Grants) and where necessary, take over and perform the duties of any of the Ministry’s local boards.
During her brief address, Minister Cox in thanking the members for their willingness to serve, indicated that the Social Welfare Division of the Ministry continues to play a critical role in fulfilling the mandate of enhancing the lives of the most vulnerable in society, by providing financial and social assistance in accordance with existing laws, regulations and policies.
Minister Cox informed the new Board members that their appointment represents the Ministry’s continued efforts to achieving the national strategic goals outlined in the National Development Strategy (2016-2030)/ Vision 2030 regarding the eradication of poverty and the enhancement of the lives of the vulnerable. She further encouraged the members of the board to act as agents of effective and efficient social services delivery, and familiarize themselves with the guiding legislations of the Social Welfare Division namely, the Senior Citizens Pension Act and the Public Assistance Act.
The Victoria East Local Board comprises of the following persons:
· Mr Richard Thompson
· Ms. Tricia Aguilleira Patrice
· Ms. Jeneffer Ali
· Ms. Sunita Jaggersar
· Ms. Cheryl Dianne Henry
The St Patrick East Local Board comprises of the following persons:
· Mr. Roodal Lalman
· Ms. Veron Yolan Mendoza-Corrie
· Ms. Sharon Frances Richards
· Mr. David Darsan
· Ms. Patsy Albertha Ransome
The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services remains steadfast in its commitment to those citizens who are most in need of temporary support, and in some instances, long-term assistance to be able to make positive changes in their personal lives, their communities, our society and national economy.
