Why is Tobago only now viewed as important in light of THA elections: MP Arnold Ram

Port of Spain: It is incredibly interesting to note that Minister Gonzales has suddenly understood the plight of the people of Tobago, as it relates to fixing the potholes caused by WASA’s repair works. The headline of a media article yesterday read “WASA to fix 2,000 potholes in Tobago”. Is it merely coincidental that the proposed date of the THA Election is rumored to be in September and now Minister Gonzales has now opted to spend time in Tobago, visiting projects under his remit? said Arnold Ram MP for Caroni Central in his statement. "Time and time again under the PNM rule, we have heard of the prioritization of fixing potholes that are caused by WASA leaks, namely in and around election time of August 2020 when Minister Sinanan stated that as a priority, he intended to work with WASA to bring relief in terms of the leakage in the roadways which cause potholes," he added.

"I can state with firm assertion that much of the country is still waiting for such resolution. It is a poor state of affairs as we note the proliferation of potholes and even as I term them “mini sinkholes” around this country and the neglect given towards remedying this issue over the years."

However, he alleged that suddenly Minister Gonzales has found his duty-bound compass and has decided to extend a hand and foot to Tobago to aid in fixing potholes, finish the desilting programme of the Hillsborough Dam to facilitate a greater water supply and drilling of wells to aid farmers in accessing a consistent water supply.

"While it is made clear that there were discussions for quite some time regarding the maintenance of Tobago’s roads subsequent to WASA’s repairs being made and Secretary Clarence Jacob wants to term this endeavour a “continuation” of efforts, nothing further was done from then to now," he maintained the question of “Why Now?”

"I applaud the engagement of assistance to Tobago but what are the intentions behind this as this time? Is this just another well-packaged promise by this PNM government with no intention to fully deliver on what is outlined?

Is this an election gimmick because of the impending THA elections? Why, as with everything else, were these infrastructural setbacks and lack of access left to grow to immense proportions before the government saw the importance of addressing these concerns?

Is this what MP Shamfa Cudjoe classes as having been handled “expeditiously’?

"As she stated and I quote verbatim, “today is symbolic of strengthening the relationship between the THA and Central Government.” This just further highlights my question of “Why are the needs of Tobago only now viewed as important, in light of the looming THA Elections?” he concluded.