Chief Secretary Farley Augustine urged Tobagonians to remain resilient and to never cower in the face of adversity, in his New Year message to the island.
He applauded Tobago for its resilience despite the challenges it faced in 2023 describing the year as one filled with detours, roadblocks, and unexpected twists and turns.
Lamenting the effect of crime on the island Augustine called for tangible actions to support Tobago’s improvement, emphasising that mere words were no longer sufficient.
“As Tobagonians, we absolutely cannot afford to cower in the face of any challenge. For when we cower, we subtly hand over our power and decrease the possibility of conquering the obstacle down the road.
“And some things are far too valuable, for us to give over without a fight. So, as we witness a concerning rise of criminality across the island, we must be willing to stand together as Tobagonians, regardless of our differences and collectively say: ‘Not on our watch.’”
Addressing challenges in the construction of the newly developed Friendship Connector Road, Augustine, said it is important to embrace challenges as an inevitable part of any worthwhile endeavour.
He urged Tobagonians not to interpret these challenges as signals to give up, but rather as opportunities for growth and perseverance.
“In the pursuit of worthwhile goals, you must expect concomitant challenges. So, when you are crafting the New Year’s resolutions, when you are creating the vision boards, you are making your future declarations, please remember that fact.
“And when the time comes to eventually face the challenge, understand that there is a fringe of opportunity as well. Instead, view your challenge as a clarion call. An invitation to insert greater effort, to apply more lateral thinking, and to test the strength of your resolve. Believe, truly believe, that the boulders which you encounter in your personal lives can be transformed into building blocks, so as long as you remain willing to apply the needed pressure.”
Augustine highlighted previous successful infrastructure initiatives, such as an improved bridge in Providence, the Smithfield to Dutch Fort Connector Road in Scarborough, and the St Peter’s Bay Road in Moriah.
He reassured the island that Tobago’s progress would not be derailed.
“We have an island and a people to continue pushing towards greatness. Time and time again, we have shown that we are tenacious. We have demonstrated that we are indeed a resilient people, capable of weathering any storm. This is the Tobago that I know… this is the Tobago that I love… this is the Tobago we must protect.”
He called on Tobagonians to strategise how they could contribute to Tobago’s transformation.
“Do not just create your Tobago resolutions, but also be willing to earnestly action them in the coming year. I am certain that many of our aspirations will overlap for this island, so it should not be too complicated to join forces. I believe at the end of the day we all want the same things. We all desire to be able to exist here safely with our families, on an island with opportunity, and growing prosperity.”
