Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has vowed to ensure that the people of Tobago get everything it needs, adding that Central Government will make the necessary funds available for Tobago’s developmental.
Dr Rowley made the comment at a People’s National Movement (PNM) meeting in Mason Hall, Tobago, on Sunday night.
This follows recent comments by Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, who lamented that the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) had just $6 million to spend for fiscal 2024 on some of the island’s most critical infrastructural needs.
Rowley also said he had received a development plan for Scarborough from the THA last week, claiming the “humongous” file was ten to 15 pounds.
Noting that he was given two weeks to respond, he gave the assurance that his administration would provide all resources as promised.
“As Prime Minister, I will ensure that the people of Tobago get everything that the Parliament appropriates to the people of Tobago and all my ministers have that instruction. If the people of Tobago have development issues, it will be developed in the context of the overall national development if it is outside of the parliamentary appropriation,” he said.
Rowley said that would include the $500 million Marriott-brand hotel at Rocky Point.
Meanwhile, Dr Rowley also spoke of legal action officially being taken against alleged whistle-blower Akil Abdullah. Abdullah had claimed Dr Rowley conspired with the Police Commissioner, Tobago PNM council leader and others to undermine the THA.
The Prime Minister wants a retraction, costs and an apology. That matter, he said, is now before the court.