Public Utilities Minister Marvin Gonzales said the new refurbished and renamed Morris Marshall Reservoir represents the service and hardwork of the former MP.
Morris Eustace Marshall was a MP for Laventille and one of three members of the People's National Movement to win their seats after the 1986 general elections that were won by the National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR). Marshall represented Port of Spain East, then Laventille West in Parliament from 1987 til his death on March 13, 1994.
Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the reservoir on Monday at Picton Road, Laventille, Gonzales said it is part of the government's broader plan to improve water supply in northwest Trinidad, calling it the north-west programme.
"This reservoir, when conceptualised in terms of refurbishment, had a number of challenges, and there was a point at which I felt as though there was no need to try to surmount those challenges, because I honestly felt that there are other communities that require that kind of support.
"And, therefore, my energies might have been better spent dealing with other areas where challenges were being experienced. I must commend MP Scotland, who would meet me in the parliament chamber and harass me. I could not drink my coffee or do anything in peace."
Gonzales spoke about the new name of the reservoir, formerly known as "Picton Tanks" saying, "When residents of East Port of Spain drive past their newly refurbished water tanks, they must not remember a racist governor. Instead, we should remember one of their sons who gave his life, his blood, sweat and tears for the people in the area."
The street and tanks were formerly named for Thomas Picton, a former governor or Trinidad from 1797 to 1803 under British rule. Picton is known for brutality, torture – including that of a 14-year-old girl – and his role in the colonial slave trade.
On Monday, Gonzales said when the refurbishment proposal first reached the board of commissioners of WASA, they believed there were more pressing priorities.
"As the line minister, I conveyed to the board that it might not be their priority, but it is the government's priority and it must be done. Our battle is our battle, and we tackle many issues without speaking up. This was a stance I took because I believe that the people of East Port of Spain (PoS), Laventille and surrounding areas are important."
Gonzales thanked everyone involved and highlighted the crucial role played by residents.
"Many people will have all kinds of views about the people of East PoS, but the community supported this, and this could not have happened without the support of the community. So I think the people of Picton and surrounding areas worked hard to make this a reality as part of a community-oriented project. I want to thank the residents for making this happen."
Gonzales shared his experience of visiting the project on two Sundays prior, at 10 am, in an unmarked vehicle to observe the progress.
"When people say people in Laventille do not want to work, I want to pu
