Chamber board: Faria stays as CEO

CHAMBER of Industry and Commerce CEO Gabriel Faria, who was recently attacked by the Prime Minister, reportedly over a comment on a private WhatsApp group, will remain in his position.

Last week Dr Rowley in a Facebookpost, said 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."

It was initially unclear what the Prime Minister was referring to but a day later, in a release, Faria shared what he posted in the WhatsApp group, which was critical of politicians. He also apologised in the release.

A statement on Monday from Chamber president Reyaz Ahamad said the Chamber board had met with Faria "to discuss matters related to recent news and social media coverage".

"The board is of the view, and Mr Faria agrees, that he should always be mindful of his role and obligations as the CEO of the TT Chamber. As a result of the discussions, the board has determined that Mr Faria will continue in his current position as CEO of the TT Chamber."

Ahamad said over the past three years Faria has helped to build a strong and effective Chamber as a credible advocate for its members and the wider business community.

"The board would like to reaffirm the role of the TT Chamber as an advocacy body committed to the highest standards of enterprise, to pursue collaborative and constructive dialogue with the Government...and the business sector. As the voice of business, the TT Chamber will continue to act as a champion of business and to advocate on behalf of the private sector."

He said the Chamber remained independent in the pursuit of matters critical to business and remained deeply committed to working with Government and other stakeholders to make the bold moves necessary to transform the economy in the national interest.

"The TT Chamber is of the belief that strong businesses are the foundation of a prosperous TT where we can improve the standard of living for all the people of TT."