Tobago: TBC Chairman urges PM Rowley to reconsider criticism of EMA over Rocky Point delays

Trinidad and Tobago: Martin George, the Chairman of the Tobago Business Chamber, has advised Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley against criticizing the prestigious Environmental Management Authority. The criticism was made regarding the long time needed to approve developments such as the Marriott Hotel investment at Rocky Point.

PM Rowley expressed his frustration during a recent press conference and said that the EMA is holding up the process for the Rocky Point development.

It is to be noted that the Environmental Impact Assessment is currently ongoing and will be completed in 2025.

George noted that the EMA is a useful body and it ma be that they need to sometimes look at themselves their operations, make adjustments, adaptations and added, “But to make a carte blanche, you know, statement which seems to say that the, the laws are being used in this manner may not necessarily be the best way of resolving this going forward.”

He cautioned that the relevant authorities must ensure that any development takes place and take the time to ensure that the environment is not significantly affected.

He further continued to say that his team does not think that the two are so impossibly far apart that they cannot meet.

“We think that there are several ways that you can do it and do it in such a manner that you still preserve and maintain the environment, and you still are able to proceed with your development while showing that respect for the island and that respect for Tobago onions,” outlined the Chairman.

The Rocky Point development has attracted a lot of criticism and concern from environmentalists, historians and surfers. It is a turtle nesting ground and contains several ruins.

George stated that the voices of all concerned should be heard and noted, “The carte blanche, you know, dismissal of even the objectors as being entitled, you know, trust fund, weed smoking babies, you know, you know that, you know, they just idling all day, surfing and smoking weed. I’m not sure that that is a fair or just characterization.”

The Tobago Business Chamber expressed support for the development, but only if it is done in a way that is environmentally sensitive and sustainable.