I write to bring some clarity on the matter of “self-governance or secession” of Tobago; as per President ANR Robinson’s views on this matter. The President being one of the framers of the THA Act. also the holder of the following positions: Chairman of the THA, Chief Secretary of the THA, Prime Minister, President.
It is important that I bring once more to the attention of the people of Trinidad & Tobago, that the recent conversations that revolve around self-governance of Tobago, has and continues to be, in contravention to the views of the former President, ANR Robinson; whose contribution to the establishment of the THA Act is well known.
It seems apparent that some Tobago politicians, have been using the promise of self-governance as something that would lead Tobago to financial and social glory. As President Robinson’s former Communication Specialist, there were several occasions where this issue was discussed in great detail. The (late) president, held the view that the THA Act provided adequate mechanisms that would ensure autonomy to the Tobago House of Assembly, in the running of the affairs of Tobago. He believed that the secession of Tobago from the union with Trinidad, would result in inevitable hardship for this island of his birth.
While he recognised the resources of tourism, agriculture and some degree of industry to include manufacturing, would lend itself naturally to building an indigenous economy in Tobago; he believed that it would not be sufficient to drive the development of the human resources that Tobago was blessed with for many years. Historically Tobago had always produced distinguished persons, who made sterling contributions to the unitary state in various capacities; and many continue to do so today.
President Robinson conveyed that the major contributor to the ongoing financial constraints that affect Tobago, are linked to the lack of enforcement of terms outlined in the THA Act. Under section 49 (collection of revenues) it stipulates the following:
49. (1) Notwithstanding section 13 of the Exchequer and Audit Act, all revenue collected in Tobago on behalf of the Government and payable thereto in respect of activities undertaken or discharged in Tobago shall be paid into the Fund.
(2) Upon the coming into force of this Act, any company, financial institution or a person operating a business in Tobago shall pay in Tobago all taxes, fees, duties, levies and other imposts in respect of its operations in Tobago.
Also outlined in the THA Act and referenced in our Constitution, is the formula used to determine the financial allocation that is budgeted each year for Tobago. The relevant question is whether governments in the past or present, have adhered to what is declared under the Act; in relation to funding the operations of the THA. If the Act is not being strictly upheld, as has been the case for many years by some governments; it would become easy to introduce discussions about secession and internal self-government, by a means that would extend beyond what is prescribed under the THA Act.
After being privy to several discussions with President Robinson, many times in the presence of other learned individuals, it is reasonable to infer, that he subscribed to the view that anyone who advocates for self-governance (secession) for Tobago, inevitably exposes the island, to both social and economic destruction. The unitary state arrangement that currently prevails, is critical for the continued financial and social well-being of both islands. With the elections at our door step, this factor should guide our thinking, as we move to the polls; knowing that our decisions may have long-lasting impact on all of our lives.