It depresses me when I witness the gross disrespect being meted out to the Tobago House of Assembly by this government. Actually, I am tempted to conclude that these are the darkest days of the THA since its establishment in 1980. Since this PP Government took office on May 24, 2010, they have apparently embarked on a brutal and sustained effort to undermine and usurp the authority of the THA, obviously due to their desire to "complete the circle." I am certain that every Tobagonian can recall the likes of APT James, Winston Murray, and ANR Robinson who fought tirelessly for the valuable but 'incomplete' autonomy that we now have. As an island, we have endured much over the years and have accomplished far beyond our capabilities, and in some cases, our expectations.
However, a major hindrance that stands in the way of Tobago's advancement and development is a cohesive and co-operative relationship between our THA and Central Government; one that is founded on mutual respect and a sincere commitment to the people's business. This relationship has never been a perfect one, given the complicated history of the union of Trinidad to Tobago. Unfortunately though, within recent times there has been a precipitous erosion of the relationship between the THA and Central Government that is facilitated by the Minority Leader and some Tobagonians. This is reflected in the refusal of the Prime Minister to meet with the Chief Secretary, a provision clearly enshrined in the THA act, and to label him as a 'cry cry baby' because of his persistent requests to follow the act and discuss Tobago's business. One would have thought that with the appointment of Dr Delmon Baker that the conflict and bacchanal with the Tobago Development Ministry would have dissipated. Sadly, this seems not to be the case and further confirms the apparent policy of this Government to intentionally disrespect and insult the authority of our THA.
Ultimately, I wish to address the confusion surrounding the Tobago leg of the motorcade for our Olympians. It is my understanding that the THA planned a ceremony to honour our Tobago athletes, especially Lalonde Gordon, the first Tobagonian to win an Olympic medal. Discussions were held between the THA and Central Government, and it was agreed that Lalonde would be made available to attend the THA function. All was in place, dignitaries were present, family members were present, along with many Tobagonians, awaiting the presence of the man of the moment; only to be sadly disappointed by the absence of Gordon who was kept on the motorcade. A motorcade that was supposed to begin at 9 am to achieve all deadlines began after 1 pm. Why?
Based on these developments, I am tempted to believe that the Central Government was never serious about keeping their commitment to have Lalonde Gordon available and present at the THA function. Therefore, it easy to conclude that the THA and Tobagonians were once again treated with disrespect and disdain by this TOP-supported Central Government. I am therefore calling on the PP Government to allow common sense to prevail, if such a word exists in their vocabulary. The continued disrespect and undermining of the THA for political gain must cease. I trust that Tobagonians are paying attention to the willingness of this Government to insult our intelligence, while being ably supported by some Tobago politicians who are aspiring for the reins of power in Tobago and have abandoned their "Tobagoness" for the sake of political recognition and power. When the time comes, Tobagonians must examine the horns, because there are traitors on board.
Ancil Dennis