Democratic Labour Party candidate Jason Phillips highlighted what he described as long-standing
problems affecting St Peter when he addressed supporters at
a meeting in Speightstown on Tuesday night, pointing to infrastructure failures, rising living costs and unmet promises by the current administration.
Phillips said residents were grappling with roads “riddled with potholes”, inconsistent garbage collection in areas such as Gills Terrace, tap water that was at times “discoloured and unsafe” and a “cost
of living that is squeezing the life out of our pockets”.
Vying for the St Peter seat in the February 11 General Election, Phillips told the gathering that his motivation for entering the race was “not for power but for a purpose . . . to serve” and he pledged to be “present, accessible and accountable” to the people of the constituency.
Turning specifically to road conditions, Phillips described Indian Ground Road as “deplorable” and outlined his intention to carry out comprehensive repairs.
“From Indian Ground straight into Speightstown. No more patchwork; no more neglect,” he said.
“The Government is collecting a lot of taxes from you . . . so there’s absolutely no reason why we can’t have better roads in this community.”
Phillips also criticised the Barbados Labour Party over a promise made at a town hall meeting to deliver title deeds to 80 residents of Six Men’s by December.
“It is now February 2026 and not one title deed has been delivered”, he said, adding that he intended to pursue the development of a resource centre and a hard court for the Six Men’s community.
“I believe in people-first leadership . . . it is people before party.”
On health care, the candidate said St Peter had been “unfaired for too long”, expressing particular concern over the closure of the hospital at Ashton Hall.
Phillips said he would advocate for “expanded hours at the [Maurice Byer Polyclinic], shorter waiting times and improved care for our seniors, including mobile health visits for those who cannot travel easily”.
He added that his vision was for the polyclinic to be developed into a mini-hospital to serve St Peter and neighbouring northern parishes.
Concluding his address, Phillips told supporters: “This election is not about red, blue or yellow . . . it is about right and wrong. I will not pretend to have every answer but I promise you this – I will work, I will listen, I will fight and I will never stop standing for you.” (SD)