Friday 19 June 2009

Time for Barnets Jewish Community to support it's Elder citizens

I found out a very interesting fact today. Barnet has more elderly Jewish people in sheltered accomodation than any other Borough in the Country. This generation has suffered tragedy beyond comprehension. Some of these people will have lost whole families, seen atrocities and cruelty beyond comprehension. In their sunset years, how should a decent, fair society treat them? I believe that they should be able to live their lives out in comfort, safety and security. It is reported that at last nights Scrutiny committee meeting, Councillor Richard Cornelius stated that he hadn't visited any homes to explain his policy because "it would be too upsetting". He stated that this was important because he "didn't want his emotions to cloud his judgement". What sort of a regime makes statements like that? Who came up with that idea? Surely a caring society does just that. It has compassion.

Many residents of sheltered housing are scared, they are stressed. Anyone with experience of the elderly will realise that this could kill them. Once the residential wardens are gone, what then? I am sorry to have to point out that in our society today, there are sick fanatics who may just see the elderly, vulnerable Jewish communities as a soft target. If they know that the wardens have gone, ask yourself this? Are they more or less likely to target these poor frail people.

Every senior citizen in Barnet deserves safety and security. I'm a Roman Catholic, but I can see many reasons why the Jewish elderly cannot be abandoned by a callous, uncaring council. If Israel was under threat, the Jewish community of Barnet would rise up as one. I am asking this question. Surely the elderly of Barnet are just as worthy and deserving of your support? The present Jewish community of Barnet is settled, prosperous and safe. They owe it to their elders to afford them a happy old age. The Jewish Chronicle has covered the story, but we need you to bring direct pressure onto your Tory Councillors and the PPC for Finchley and Golders Green, Mike Freer

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