Kazim: Make local govt reform happen

RURAL Development and Local Government Minister Kazim Hosein is urging the chairmen of Trinidad’s14 local government corporations to make local government reform happen. Hosein made this statement after presenting instruments of appointment to members of the new board of directors of Rural Development Company of TT (RDC).

Hosein told the chairmen, “Don’t sit back and wait for local government reform to happen. I encourage you to create avenues using the resources that you have now to do the work of the people.”

Reminding them they are servants of the people and have a duty to get the job done, Hosein said, “ Local government reform will come to the Parliament very soon but you need to be prepared for this major step.”

He also urged councillors and aldermen to ensure that the services being provided by the corporations benefit the burgesses, “As representatives of the people you must ensure that issues such as garbage collection, clearing of drains and minor watercourses, maintenance of cemeteries, and repairs to local roads are addressed, in a timely manner,” Hosein said.

He underscored the importance of continuity in all corporations, Hosein said this “can be achieved by adopting a whole of corporation approach to everything that you do”.

He said the ministry’s staff is committed and ready for its transition to its new rural development portfolio. Under this arrangement, Hosein said the new ministry will be solely responsible for bringing the much-needed goods and services to the rural areas across the country.

Last month, Hosein said Finance Minister Colm Imbert will have responsibility for all 14 local government corporations as part of the local government reform initiative. Hosein said this is similar to the system used by the Tobago House of Assembly.

Local government reform legislation is due to be laid in Parliament this month. Local government elections are constitutionally due later this year. Hosein thanked members of the outgoing RDC board. He congratulated new RDC chairman Patricia Alexis and members of the incoming board on their appointments. He reminded them of the Government’s vision and mandate to develop the rural communities across Trinidad through service delivery and good governance by putting people first.