The Tipperary Hall is up and functioning – kudos for those involved

Dear Editor,
Every time I read about the Tipperary Hall, I get very sentimental. As a boy, every weekend, the wind blew the sound of this hall into my ear. The volume and clarity used to fluctuate with the wind, but the pleasure remained constant. Mostly it was the sound of soft music, and I used to envisage the quiet dancing. So I take a piece of the ‘meal of sentiments’ from President Donald Ramotar, who made reference to the fact that the PPP/C and Buxtonians are inseparable.
The occasion for the president’s utterance was the commissioning of the rebuilt Gy$58 million Tipperary Hall, which is a gift from the state to the people of Buxton. According to President Ramotar, the PPP and Buxton had close ties in the past, especially during a period, in which they both struggled for the development of Guyana. This arduous battle allowed for the PPP to garner the support of the Buxtonians. In fact, back then, Buxton was known to politicians as “Little Moscow”, mainly because it was a PPP community. Imagine!
Another rich piece of history is the fact that in 1955, the Jagan-led faction of the PPP came to Tipperary Hall, to hold the continuation of a congress that was disrupted in Georgetown. So the Buxtonians are not step-siblings, where the PPP/C is now concerned. How about remembering the stopping of the cortege, so that the village could have paid homage to the late Dr Cheddi Jagan? That was indeed a most touching moment. It was also symbolic – unity was very evident and a microcosm of the nation (as Dr Jagan wanted it) was portended.
I am so happy that the “… PPP/C will continue to strive to regain the support of the Buxtonians.” This is very essential. The president advised the community that it should guard against division. This is so timely a suggestion too. The divisive nature of many politicians is still evident, and it is only via conscious and prolonged education that progress will be made.
My mind goes back to the days of inter-school sports and cricket competitions etc. The schools were Annandale Secondary and Primary, Bladen Hall Multilateral and Buxton Community High. It was fun – clean and fair too. If Tipperary Hall can add to this kind of camaraderie, then all the cook-up and black-pudding spots will be flocked. Buxton is known for good weekend foods and late night liming. It was and still is a haven for relaxation. I know that there is a good sports ground there too. Honestly, I am very enthused.
I do applaud the people of Buxton and am pleased to know that the PPP/C is most accommodating when it comes to improving village life and creating an ambience for goodwill.
Yours truly,
Desmond Bailey