Tobago officials are hoping that the $50 million received from the Central Government on Wednesday for the oil spill clean-up will be used to clear debts and assist affected fishermen.
The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) confirmed on Wednesday night that it had received the allocation from the Central Government earlier that day.
THA Minority Leader Kelvon Morris told Guardian Media bills must take priority.
“We know that a number of suppliers and services were engaged, and these persons would have expended significant resources. It is important that priority is placed on paying all legitimate bills. That should be the first call.”
Morris said he was aware of the plight of the fishing community in Lambeau and along the southeast coast. This is why he felt it was important that some of the money went to fishermen with verified losses.
He also suggested support for Lambeau residents who suffered medical complications and had to be relocated.
This allocation follows Finance Minister Colm Imbert’s June statement, which criticised the THA’s original $153 million request for lacking sufficient justification.
According to Imbert, the reduced $50 million was based on actual invoices provided by the assembly.
Imbert said the funds will cover expenses for clean-up and remediation, infrastructure rental, marine support services, security, materials, supplies, catering, and refurbishments.
However, Progressive Democratic Patriots leader Watson Duke said he was frustrated over the delay in aid distribution.
“I am saddened by the fact that $50 million has entered the hands of the THA, and the fishermen who are clamouring for justice are yet to receive assistance,” Duke said.
He called on the chief secretary to ensure the funds are used to provide relief for the fishermen.
Meanwhile, Tobago chairman of the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce Curtis Williams believes even with the assembly’s best effort, the money cannot bring any ease.
“If there are legit bills coming out of the oil spill, I think the Government should compensate them and honour them in a particular way. Those contractors who are waiting on payment for the past five months must be prioritised.”
He also believes there should be a formula to compensate the affected fisherfolk.
“But priority has to go towards those who would have worked because these people have people to pay. They should strike balance in clearing the bills.” —Elizabeth Gonzales