St Michael North folk wish Toppin happy trails

Some St Michael North constituents declared Thursday their comfort with seeing Ronald Toppin ride off into the political sunset, saying he has paid his dues after 30 years and six terms as their MP.

On Wednesday, Toppin named the Labour Party’s branch president Davidson Ishmael to succeed him as a candidate for the riding in the next election, confirming reports that he would retire from elective politics.

Hours later in the constituency, one resident who identified herself as ‘Cyrleen’ said the developments were “neither here nor there”.

“I believe that his heart may have been in the right place, but I believe that some areas in the constituency are targeted more than others. Some areas get more of the benefits than others, but I believe his heart is in the right place,” she told Barbados TODAY.

“Being honest, it’s neither here nor there for me. I try to support those who I think would make a difference and make a change. I am not a staunch B or D so whoever I believe can effect change, I am willing to support.”

She said she knew nothing of Ishmael, but stressed that people in the Cave Hill area, regardless of their political affiliations, deserved more attention beyond mere handouts.

Noel Williams, who was born and raised in Lodge Hill said he endorsed the change.

“For me, I think it’s a good idea because I believe it’s time to let a younger person step in and make certain changes because we need it now. We need change, we need development and we need evolution,” said Williams.

“From the time I was going to school at Eden Lodge, I remember Toppin would donate pens and rubbers and sharpeners to the schools and at Christmas he would come around and give out hampers to the residents in the constituency.”

Elsewhere in St Michael North, Althea Shepherd said she thought Mr Toppin had done a good job.

“I feel he has done a good job in the community. He’s a good man and it is sad to see him go but he worked long and hard and if it’s time to go, it’s time to go. I wish him good luck,” she said.

Shepherd noted that her current job at the National Assistance Board was facilitated by the constituency office and noted that Toppin was well known for assisting many throughout the constituency.

(kareemsmith@barbadostoday.bb)