Penn blasts sluggish efforts for EE community centre project

The slow progress on the East End Community Centre project has drawn sharp criticism from Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn.

In a recent House of Assembly sitting, Penn expressed deep frustration over the delayed completion of the critical project, which was initially scheduled for delivery by November last year.

“Another year that our people have to deal with the absence of that very vital facility for the people of the East End/Long Look community,” Penn said. He lamented the impact on local graduates, who he said “have to be like nomads around the territory, shuffling for space” to celebrate their excellent work throughout the year.

The lawmaker stated that discussions with the Health Minister had occurred, indicating the government’s repeated assurances of imminent completion. However, Penn noted that these assurances have not materialised.

According to Penn, the project is not just a building but a beacon for community spirit and engagement. He also described it as “a critical and important edifice” to his community.

Project funding was secured

Penn, who said he was instrumental in securing the funding and contracts for the centre as a minister under the previous government, felt his efforts were being squandered. His discontent also stemmed from what he saw as a lack of urgency and accountability from current government officials.

“The money wasn’t there. All the talk, they were talking, the money wasn’t there to fix it. I got the money done, we got the contracts tendered and you can’t even finish it. All that’s left for you to do is finish it. We are a year, almost a year behind the schedule to get that completed,” he stated.

Penn did not mince words when he spoke of the government’s failure to deliver on its promises, singling out Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, who represents the neighbouring Seventh District and shares responsibility for the centre.

“We share that facility, Premier. You have ultimate responsibility as well as the Minister of Finance to ensure that your ministers are ensuring that they deliver on the things for the people of this territory, and we’re failing grossly in delivering these projects,” Penn stated.