Hosein, Robinson: Best decisions being made in covid times

THE RURAL Development and Local Government Ministry says all local government corporations in Trinidad have been severely impacted financially because of the covid19 pandemic. While some decisions taken by some corporations may upset some people, the ministry explained those decisions are necessary to ensure that respective burgesses are able to continue to receive the services they need.

The ministry gave this response on Friday to complaints by UNC councillors and aldermen at the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation (TPRC) about plans by that corporation to increase certain fees.

In a statement, Rural Development and Local Government Minister Kazim Hosein said, "While persons may be upset by the decisions of the Council, we must understand the economic challenges facing not only our country but the world."

Hosein defended the proposed increases. He said they would "benefit the burgesses themselves and is in line with the plans for local government reform."

Hosein explained that with the implementation of local government reform, monies generated from market fees, wrecking fees, food badges, vending permissions, and rental of corporation venues will allow all corporations to earn additional revenue which will be put towards better serving their communities.

In the same statement, TPRC chairman Kwasi Robinson said the same increases now being objected to by the corporation's UNC representatives, were approved by their party as part of the former PP government. He also disclosed that this matter was scheduled for implementation for over one year now.

"There comes a time when difficult decisions must be made and we as local government practitioners have a duty to the people to make such decisions with the benefit of all burgesses at the forefront."

Robinson added, "We, at the TPRC remain committed to efficiently provide the much-needed goods and services to all our burgesses."

In a statement on Wednesday, the UNC complained that the proposed fee increase was inconsiderate.

"It's unfathomable that the PNM voted for this with no thought as to how it would affect the average citizen during these trying times."

The UNC urged Hosen and the PNM members of the TPRC "to have a heart, think about the financial and economic crises their burgesses are currently in and reverse this decision."