‘It is my duty to fulfil expectations’

HERALD: Goa Forward Party has made statements that there is no development seen in the St Cruz constituency, what is your reaction to this?

Antonio Fernandes: I am just elected and eight months have passed, but my work proposals are with the Government. The statement made by Goa Forward doesn’t affect me and I am not bothered. It is also a fact that St Cruz remained undeveloped for many years despite being so close to the State’s capital. People of St Cruz have elected me for five years, my duty is to fulfil their expectations by ignoring any kind of criticism by anyone. 

HERALD: Why St Cruz constituency is not developed despite it being well represented in the State assembly?

AF: There is no planning in the St Cruz constituency in terms of the development for many years that led to the pending of dozens of issues in constituency. St Cruz is half village and half city and its needs a separate treatment from the Government. There was a hope when Babush Monserrate was elected from St Cruz but unfortunately he remained in opposition and Government selectively sidelined his constituency. 

HERALD: What efforts have you made after becoming MLA for the development of St Cruz constituency?

AF: My proposals for projects in the village are ready and everything has been placed before the Government for approval. In the list I have community hall, Hindu crematorium, Christian cemetery, hot mixing of all roads, upgradation and construction of nallas, proper water and electricity, market complex, etc. People have elected me for five years and it is my duty to complete the expectations of the people of St Cruz. 

HERALD: Do you think, Monserrate joining GF will help in getting your constituency developed?

AF: People of ST Cruz know me very well. Before becoming MLA I was also a panch member and sarpanch. Babush and I are very good friends and I know he is a man for development that you can see in Taleigao. I will go to the BJP Government as well as any other Government to get the works of my constituency done.