Tobago hoteliers left disappointed

With no budgetary figures allocated to the Tobago Tourism thrust, the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association (THTA) has expressed disappointment with the National Budget presentation.

During the $53 billon budget presentation on Monday, Finance Minister Colm Imbert stated that the development of the tourism sector in Tobago remains a critical priority for his Administration, as he added that Tobago’s budgetary allocation will enhance its tourism product, boost its marketing thrust and finance the upgrading and expansion of its room stock.

He added that, in addition, the Government will encourage the tourism stakeholders in Tobago to access the Tourism Business Development Fund.

However not mincing words, President of the Association Chris James in speaking with Newsday Tobago on Tuesday expressed his discontent with the five hours long presentation, as he noted the worries of the Association.

“The THTA is concerned that increased taxation on the business sector will not stimulate the growth needed to enable diversification of the economy,” he said.

The President indicated that the Association understands the rational of marketing Trinidad and Tobago separately and will be looking forward to a presentation on how this will work.

“We are also in support of the Regulatory Authority and we are hopeful that both the upgrade and loan guarantee program will succeed in Tobago this time. We also acknowledge the statement on the air and sea bridge and await with interest the resolution of the problems. Also the statement that legislation will be brought to parliament to address the issue of land title, other than that I have seen no budgetary figures allocated to tourism,” James said.