Kamla: Government has failed the people of Tobago
Leader of the Opposition Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, today slammed the Government’s handling of the ongoing problems with the Trinidad to Tobago Sea Bridge, which has now led to a critical food shortage on the sister isle.
The Opposition Leader said, “The Rowley-led Government has failed the people of Tobago, by the removal of the MV Superfast Galicia, and not making adequate provision for alternative cargo arrangements.”
“People living and working in Tobago are in desperate need of basic food supplies, and the Government seems to be unaware of the urgency of the situation,” Mrs. Persad-Bissessar said.
The Opposition Leader pointed out that in spite of numerous statements by citizens, including hoteliers, truckers, and business people, Prime Minister Keith Rowley indicated to the House of Representatives on Wednesday 10th May that he was “not made aware of any critical shortage of food in Tobago, when he was there last week” for a Golf Tournament. “Business people, including hoteliers and grocers, have been severely impacted by the unavailability of goods as the replacement cargo vessels have been unable to provide reliable transportation to the island,” she said.
She noted that Works and Transport Minister Rohan Sinanan has repeatedly given assurances, even before the MV Galicia was replaced, however, more than a month has passed and the situation has worsened.
The Opposition is disappointed that a motion moved today by the Member of Parliament for Couva North, Ramona Ramdial to discuss this matter of urgent national importance in the House of Representatives was not approved.
The Opposition Leader is calling on the Government to work expeditiously to bring relief to the people of Tobago.
–END–