THE CHRISTIAN COUNCIL’S RESPONSE:
The Heads of the Denominations comprising the Christian Councilhave already met with the Leader of the Opposition, the Prime Minister, and the Public Service Union (PSU).
THE WAY FORWARD
We realize from our meetings that there are different and contending views about the amendments which led to the recent protest.
We strongly believe that in a spirit of goodwill and cooperation, there is a needfor further dialogue, engagement and discussion with social partners on the Public Health Amendment Act which was passed on the 6th August, 2021, in the context of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
We welcome the Public Consultation and Discussion on the Public Health (Public Bodies Special Measures) Rules 2021 and encouragedialogue and engagement by social partners on this as well.
We are aware that the pervasive understanding of democracy includes a “right to protest” that is Peaceful Protestalong with other opportunities for contending views, voices and opinions. We believe that the contending of voices and the related opportunity to listen to one another and to speak responsibly are critical. We reiterate the importance of non-incendiary language, also of research, truth seeking, fact checking and truth speaking.
The Rt. Rev’d C. Leopold Friday
Bishop of the Windward Islands
President of the SVG Christian Council.
(Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Salvation Army)