PROGRESSIVE Democratic Patriots (PDP) deputy political leader Farley Augustine has made it clear the party is not in favour of the joint select committee’s (JSC’s) final report to the Parliament on the Tobago “autonomy” bills.
Debate on a motion to adopt the JSC’s report on the Constitution (Amendment) Tobago Self-Government Bill 2020 and the Tobago Island Administration Bill 2021 began in the House of Representatives on Monday.
It culminated three public consultations, two of which were held with key political stakeholders in Tobago, on April 30 and May 1. The third was held in Trinidad on May 3.
The JSC, comprising both Government and Opposition members, subsequently presented its final report to the Parliament.
The bills require a three-fifths majority for passage, meaning they must get the Opposition UNC’s support.
Leader of Government Business Camille Robinson-Regis, who chaired the JSC which reviewed the bills, opened the debate on the motion.
Saying it was an historic day for the people of Tobago, Robinson-Regis added: “It is a day that has been long in coming and for some, a day many believe that will never see the light of day.”
But Augustine, who listened to Robinson-Regis’ contribution and that of several other speakers, said the arguments being put forward on either side, were “predictable” and did not reflect the wishes of Tobagonians.
“So far, the debate has been predictable and consistent with what we have been up against with the JSC. But the takeaway point for Tobago is that it is evident that there is a clear unwillingness to give Tobago what Tobago desires,” he told Newsday.
The Speyside/L’Anse Fourmi/Parlautuvier representative accused the Government and Opposition of supporting flawed bills.
“Everyone agrees that the JSC’s final report has significant flaws and in some ways, reflects an unwillingness to listen to the people of Tobago.”
To demonstrate his point, Augustine referred to a recent PNM press release, which, he said, stated that the bills are not perfect.
“So, if they know they are not perfect and they are flawed, why not let us fix it before they carry it to the Parliament.
“But, they seem to insist on carrying it to the Parliament as is, so let the chips fall where they may at this point.”
Augustine avoided making any pronouncement on the outcome of the debate.
He said he has not had any conversations with members of the Opposition regarding how they are likely to vote.
Augustine said that was deliberate.
“So, I cannot say what their final position will be. They gave a minority report and, so far, they have been consistent with their minority report, which shows that they have challenges with the process.”
Watson: Trinidad looks down on Tobago
PDP political leader Watson Duke, who also watched the debate, claimed Trinidad has always viewed Tobago as inferior.
He believes this is so because most Trinidadians do not know the
