PANJIM: Antonio Lopes, a Goan from Goa-Velha is a candidate for the local council elections in Swindon, UK, for the Liberal Democratic Party. He has been living in England for the last 25 years, the last 10 years of which have been in Swindon with his family. Goans are regarded as the biggest community in Central Swindon and Antonio believes the time has come that Goans have a representative to voicing the concerns in the council. Antonio believes that there are many ways the Council of Swindon can help the Goan community grow even more as there are many resources available through the council which can benefit the community. He says that his ultimate goal is to be able to do something better for the growth and prosperity of Goans in Swindon. Last year, Imtiyaz Shaikh, another Goan from Vasco contested for Liberal Democrates, but lost narrowly by a margin of 5 per cent vote. Antonio has asked the support of all Goans by casting their votes for him on May 7. Imtiyaz & Antonio have already through the council obtained grants to teach English to Goans who missed the opportunity in Goa. They believe this will help them in their day-to-day life. Another grant has already been sanctioned for senior citizens. "Our goal is to make them come out of their houses and meet one another, thereby gaining confidence. Imtiyaz is organizing a Goan talent hunt contest called, Goan Super Star, on May 12, in Swindon, supported by Antonio Lopes. The proceeds of this will go to The Great Western Hospital charity. The aim of this show is to bring our youngsters together and groom them for the bigger stage in England." [H]
http://goacom.com/goa-news-highlights/26108-goan-origin-lopes-in-fray-for-swindon-s-council-election-- DEV BOREM KORUM Gabe Menezes.
