The New Democratic Party (NDP) will not support the government in any legal action that is to be taken against the New York Police officer who was involved in a recent altercation with Permanent Representative to the United Nations Camillo Gonsalves.

Leader of the opposition the Hon. Arhnim Eustace yesterday morning said the government’s approach is not in the best interest of Vincentians at home and in the diaspora. Mr. Eustace suggested instead that the government should meet with a view to an amicable settlement in the best interest of both parties.

In a country already cash strapped, the monies to be spent on Camillo’s legal fees should instead be used for among other things, late wage payments and non-payments to public sector workers, equipping the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital with the necessary medication and road maintenance.

Eustace however said after reading the report on the incident he came to the conclusion that Camillo should have shown his I.D, he should not have walked through the barricade and the New York officer acting inappropriately.

The New Democratic Party he added will never compromise its diplomatic service and representatives abroad but expects a high level of cooperation and pragmatism, which the host country should also reciprocate.

Mr. Eustace also reminded Dr. Gonsalves of the battery and assault meted out to members of the opposition by police officers here in St. Vincent on March 20th, 2011, the three police officers who were re-instated after brutalizing a teenage boy and the old woman who was assaulted at the Kingstown Port all of whom received no justice.
The opposition leader said the government need to deal evenly with Vincentians whether at home or in the Diaspora.