Chamber CEO sorry for privately slamming politicians

CHAMBER of Commerce CEO Gabriel Faria has apologised for a private statement he made about politicians.

He also said the Chamber board has asked to meet to decide the way forward on this issue.

Faria's apology came the day after a post on the Prime Minister's official Facebook page denounced Faria as trying to influence voters while being dismissive of the country's leadership.

Dr Rowley also said that Faria was only interested in what he could suck from this country and if he ever offered himself for political office, "he will be dismissed with a swift kick in the pants by a population who sees him for what he is, a disrespectful mouth with precious little value rattling around in the Chamber with his acid tongue."

Faria told Newsday on Wednesday that he had no comment other than that the Chamber would continue to advocate on behalf of business.

But in a statement to the media on Thursday he said he wanted to respond to various posts attributed to him which are currently circulating on social media.

"For the avoidance of doubt," he said, "I am attaching the statement which was part of a WhatsApp group exchange and expressed in my private capacity as a citizen of our Republic.

"I wish to unreservedly apologise for the tone and for the intemperate comments about the state of play of our politics. It is clear that the language is inappropriate and this I very much regret."

His WhatsApp message said:

"… I think you are making assumptions about the responsible and ethical behaviour of politicians.

"I think that train has left the station.

"Their (sic) is no interest in being responsible or ethical or treating either the citizens or businesses with respect or fairly.

"Their (sic) is one interest: win the elections at all costs so the party in power can continue to life high off the backs of honest tax paying citizens.

"I am disgusted with the behaviour/disdain/ apathy displaced by both parties."

Faria said in his statement that, even though these comments were made in private, "I accept that I should still have been mindful of my public and professional roles, and in particular, my position as CEO of the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce."

In his opinion, he said, business concerns were not being adequately addressed.

"The sentiments I expressed were underpinned by a growing frustration I felt as a key advocate on behalf of business. This does not excuse the tone or content of what I said, but it is intended to provide the context for my actions.

"I have, over the years defined my professional life as an independent voice and as one who is deeply committed to a progressive and competitive business environment. My comments were made in that spirit, but it was not my intention to disrespect those who hold high office nor to bring disrepute to the TT Chamber. It fell short of the professional conduct that would be expected by the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the board."

Faria said it is in the interest of everyone in the country to ensure that businesses are treated fairly and in ways that stimulate economic activity and employment.

"That remains my call to Government – a strong business community is the backbone of a prosperous economy."