The Democratic Labour Party (DLP)?headed by leader Prime Minister Freundel Stuart engaged in an almost 45 minutes no holds barred discussion with the Muslim community at their Mosque at Kensington New Road, St. Michael today, touching on topics of education, energy, the Palestinian situation and same sex marriage.
The visitors, on the invitation of the Muslim community as a familiarisation tour in light of the February 21 General Elections in Barbados, also underscored the diversity that the Muslims brought to the island and highlighted their entrepreneurial spirit and its impact on the lives of ordinary Barbadians.
The DLP team comprised also Patrick Todd, candidate for the City, Michael Carrington of St. Michael West, Donville Inniss of St. James South and Richard Sealy of St. Michael South Central.
Touting that there was always good relations with the Muslim community Sealy, while paying tribute to former DLP?Minister of Health Sir Branford Taitt, who died today, said Taitt had made it possible for a section of Westbury cemetery to be used by Muslims for burying their dead.
“It is upon the shoulders of stalwarts like that that we continue to accept the diversity of Barbados.”
Sealy referred to Asia as a market to be considered as one of Barbados’ emerging tourists sources and noted the appeal for airlift opportunities, if only for the time during the Haj where Muslims go on their pilgrimage, was under consideration.
“We do see your work and role as being fundamental.” (JS)
