January 30, 2000
A rchbishop Anthony Pantin has written to President Arthur N. R. Robinson and Prime Minister Basdeo Panday asking them to sort out their differences and work together for the good of the country.
And he has asked the nation the say the IRO's special prayer, and the churches to include in this morning's service a prayer for "a quick and peaceful solution to the present crisis from which our nation may emerge stronger and more united."
Vicar General of the Archdiocese, Fr Christian Pereira, said yesterday that the Archbishop had authorised him to make the letter known to the public, "so that all may know that I am deeply concerned at the situation and united with you in prayer at this difficult time." The Archbishop wrote the two leaders from his recuperating bed in Miami where he is on convalescence after undergoing surgery at Jackson Memorial Hospital two weeks ago. He is expected back in Trinidad and Tobago next weekend.
Archbishop Pantin reminded the President and Prime Minister of the national motto, "Together We Aspire, Together we Achieve." He appealed to them to "aspire together" so that not only themselves but the entire population could "achieve together". He assured them of his prayers that God would guide them to take the decisions, which would restore harmony between them, stated Father Pereira.