TTITOA: We need to take back our country after Broadbridge killing

The Trinidad and Tobago Incoming Tour Operators Association (TTITOA) has denounced the killing of the mother of their Vice President Stephen Broadbridge, via a media release yesterday. The release extended condolences to the Broadbridge family during their time of grief and said that the murder has left the association deeply shaken and called on citizens to do their part in taking back T&T.

"Many members in our Association are traumatized and greatly disturbed not only about this murder but also the many murders and heinous crimes that occur daily in our twin island republic. It has now reached a point where we as citizens of this nation need to make every effort to take back our country."

The release added that rampant crime rates threatens the growth and the future of the tourist industry citing an increase in violent crimes can hamper tourist arrivals during economically turbulent times.

"As a major tourism stakeholder TTITOA is pleading with the relevant authorities to move swiftly and sift out all the criminal elements in each community and at the various strata of our society. This is not auguring well for “Tourism” to move forward in Trinidad and Tobago as we are already way behind our regional neighbours and in the embryonic stage of development of the industry."

In a separate release issued yesterday, the TT Coalition of Service Industries (TTCSI) also extended their condolences to Broadbridge's family adding that her death marked a cultural loss to the nation, citing her dedication in preserving TT's cultural legacy. The Coalition also urged authorities to take the necessary action in arresting the crime situation.

"In light of this, the TTCSI recognizes the need for urgent conversation and affirmative action as it relates to the escalating crime situation in Trinidad and Tobago."

Dr Claire Broadbridge was killed at her St Ann's home on Saturday afternoon by unknown assailants. It is believed that her throat was slit and the killers set fire to part of the house before fleeing the scene.

Her murder has sparked an outcry within the local art and cultural communities, who have condemned the murder.