Private sector pleased at news of vaccines from India, China

Leaders in the private sector said they are pleased with news that Trinidad and Tobago is to receive shipments of vaccines from India and China, as they pledged their support for the government's vaccination drive.

Speaking with Newsday on Wednesday, president of the Supermarket Association of TT (SATT) Rajiv Diptee congratulated the government on securing the vaccines, describing the announcement as a "plus for TT."

"It's good news, I know the government has been working assiduously because they realise the frustration people from all different levels of society have been experiencing throughout this pandemic.

"There are questions over the efficacy of China's vaccine, but I know not everyone would have been able to afford vaccines if they were being sold, so this is a definite plus for the country. So congratulations."

Contacted for comment, CEO of the TT Chamber of Commerce Gabriel Faria said he was pleased with the quick response of the government in getting the vaccines.

He also noted while the Chinese vaccines were pending approval from the World Health Organization (WHO), he was happy TT had the support of its international partners.

"It's comforting to know that progress is being made on this matter.

"The private sector is fully supportive of the vaccination campaign that the government is rolling out and we will provide support in whatever way we can.

"The discussions we had with government have revolved around maybe facilitating vaccines in certain locations or providing support like educating our employees on the importance of getting vaccinated, and we all recognise the importance of vaccination to achieve immunity, so we can save lives and livelihoods by restarting our economy responsibly."

Newsday also contacted Sharon Balroop group communications manager for the ANSA McAL group of companies, who declined to comment.