Leatherback turtles favour nesting along coastal regions like Toco, Grande Riviere, Matura, Fishing Pond and Manzanilla. Based on their choice of destination, Tourism Minister Joseph Ross says his ministry and the Turtle Village Trust had partnered to make T&T the premier turtle tourism destination globally. He made the comment in his feature address which was delivered on Tuesday by permanent secretary Melba Dedier.
Ross was speaking at a two-day conference on turtle conservation, eco-tourism and sustainable community development hosted by Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (Salises) at the Learning Resource Centre, UWI, St Augustine. The conference is the first of its kind in the Caribbean. Ross said, "T&T is one of the top turtle nesting sites in the world with an average of 500 leatherbacks coming to our shores per night at the high point of the season." "It is in this regard the Ministry of Tourism has partnered with the Turtle Village Trust to make our country the premier turtle tourism destination globally."
Community input
Ross also challenged communities to get involved in protecting the flora, fauna and endangered species like the leatherbacks, which have existed since the age of dinosaurs. He said, "We intend to drive tourism business to the communities. Our developmental plan must encompass the care, protection of the environment, provision of regular maintenance and the beautification of the environs."
"The responsibility lies with the individual communities and players in the regions to develop and market compelling attractions, facilities, accommodation and experiences which deliver value for money and quality service," Ross added. Apart from focus on turtle conservation, Ross said visitor amenities had been improved and capital works done at the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, Gasparee Caves, San Fernando Hill and the Toco Lighthouse.