Page 75 - PNM General Election 2020 Manifesto

A significant number of these projects are located
in east Tobago and addresses historical
imbalances in Tobago’s development.

These projects saw development in south- west
Tobago outstrip development in the eastern and
the northern parts of the island. The
collaboration between the THA and the Central
Government has also resulted in sustainable
solutions to the perennial problems of the sea
bridge, with the lease of the Jean de la Valette,
which currently works alongside the Cabo Star,
the Galleons Passage and the T&T Spirit; and the
purchase of two new passenger ferries from
Australia scheduled to arrive later this year.

Though much has been achieved, the matter of
greater autonomy for Tobago still remains
More recently, as part of our country’s COVID-19 outstanding. Unfortunately, the Bill to grant
response, cooperation between the Central Tobago self-government was before a Joint Select
Government and the THA on health policies has Committee of Parliament when the Parliament
seen significant financial and technical resources was dissolved.
made available to THA to aid in its management
of COVID-19. In addition, additional financial Our commitment to Tobago’s autonomy remains
resources were made available to Tobago to help and will be accorded the highest priority in the
in COVID-related support for hotels and new term of Parliament.
guesthouses, as well as ancillary businesses in the
tourism industry. Additionally, the Central We will leave no stone unturned to bring to
Government has made financial resources fruition, the issue of self-government for the
available to residents through Self Help people of Tobago. We understand and respect
Commission, so Tobagonians can improve their the wishes of the people of Tobago for self-
communities as well as their living conditions. determination and to make the decisions that
influence their daily lives. We are also committed
to making the necessary financial and technical
resources available to the THA for Tobago’s
economic recovery after the adverse effects of
the COVID-19 pandemic.

72 72
PNM THE RIGHT CHOICE ON AUGUST 10 People’s National Movement Manifesto 2020