MP Paray: Government Must Save ASA Wright Nature Centre
The Government must immediately intervene and save the eco-lodge of the heritage Asa Wright Nature Centre from closure.
This historic nature resort and scientific research station is a precious national resource, and must not be allowed to close its doors to its thousands of local and foreign visitors.
The retreat is precious for its tremendous diversity in animals, birds and plant species.
It is regrettable that the Government has not stepped in to preserve this valued eco project, and this proves once more that it is only paying lip service to the tourism sector.
Ironically, the Minister of Finance announced in his most recent Budget address that a tourism accommodation upgrade incentive fund is being made available to accommodation facilities.
Yet the Government is permitting the world-renowned Asa Wright eco-lodge to fold up, this denying the proprietors the opportunity to showcase Trinidad and Tobago’s rich ecology and to earn precious foreign exchange.
The closure of the resort is an affront to at least three important United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – good health and well being, sustainable cities and communities, and protection of ecosystems.
The Government’s inaction on this crucial matter again exposes its ineptitude, lack of vision and warped priorities.
Large sums have instead been spent on a golf course and vanity property in Tobago for the Prime Minister, private paintings and on the Soca of the Seas cruise organised by friends of the Government.
The Government must take appropriate measures to ensure that the cherished Asa Wright facility remains available for the world to appreciate Trinidad and Tobago’s extensive flora and fauna.
Rushton Paray,
Member of Parliament for Mayaro