PDP sets up own THA 'executive council,' starts work Monday

The Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) have established what they call an alternative executive council in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) to address the needs of Tobagonians until a solution to the six-six deadlock is finalised.

Addressing a virtual news conference on Friday, PDP deputy political leader Farley Augustine said the alternative council, which begins its work on Monday, will focus largely on community-based initiatives.

It plans to draw on the skills and resources of people in communities with support from the island’s corporate and civil society sectors.

Augustine said he has already met with representatives from the Tobago Division of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce and other entities.

The alternative council, he added, “will keep checks and balances on the holdover executive that has been operating without prudent restraint.”

Augustine said he will assume the role of Chief Secretary and Secretary of Finance and the Economy. Fellow deputy leader Dr Faith BYisrael will serve as shadow Secretary of Health, Wellness and Family Development and Secretary of Forestry, Food Production and Fisheries.