CAN SOMEONE please enlighten the taxpayers of Barbados as to what the cost will be fore Barbados to change the Constitution to become a republic?
We are hearing all this talk about Barbados becoming a republic, but what we cannot hear is its cost to the taxpayers.
At least we have been told what the amount will be for the celebration of our 50th anniversary of Independence, though we know that at the end of the celebration that number will probably be a much higher one.
It was most distressing for me to read in the NATION newspaper of four well known retirees calling for the change to republic status to be brought about as soon as possible.
Their zest and energy suggest they are trying to force the Government to have it done in time for our Independence celebration this year.
What gives them the right to think that they can make a suggestion on behalf of our 280 000 population on such a serious decision? There was no mention at all about a referendum and as a Barbadian I am sure I can speak on behalf of most Barbadians. we have got to be given the choice for ourselves.
Maybe these goodly gentlemen had better use what little energy they have left in their years of retirement more carefully and put it towards the many important things that need to be improved in this country rather than advocating for a republic.
Another interesting aspect on the doing away with the monarchy is that two of the retirees were honoured with titles affixed to their names by the same Queen that they now want to dispose of.
One can only imagine that they would consider disposing of that honour as well.
– ANNETTE LASHLEY
