Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has outlined her government’s agenda focusing on energy deals with Grenada, Guyana, and Suriname. She emphasized the repeal of certain laws and plans to collaborate with Tobago’s administration. Awaiting further exploration, the gas deal with Venezuela is declared defunct.
In a recent address following her inauguration, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar emphasized her government’s immediate focus on establishing operational strategies to improve Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector. At an event held on May 3 at President’s House in Port of Spain, she acknowledged the significant work ahead.
She reiterated several campaign pledges, which include repealing the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority Act and introducing laws surrounding self-defense and home invasions. Persad-Bissessar described these initiatives as “low-hanging fruits,” indicating they require limited financial resources and primarily demand political will.
The Prime Minister also underscored her commitment to advancing the energy sector. She has tasked Dr. Roodal Moonilal, the Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, with exploring new oil and gas opportunities. Persad-Bissessar noted that Trinidad and Tobago possesses one of the oldest oil industries globally, thus presenting competitive advantages, particularly in reaching out to fellow Caricom nations.
She specifically mentioned the opportunities arising from engagements with Guyana and Suriname, both of which have untapped energy potential. “We can partner with them,” she said, signaling the intent for collaboration. In what she called a surprise announcement, she revealed plans to send her Minister of Energy to Grenada due to reports suggesting that Grenada’s offshore reserves may exceed those of the Dragon Field.
Persad-Bissessar indicated that the prior gas deal involving Venezuela is no longer viable. Furthermore, she has directed Minister of Finance Dave Tancoo to review the country’s treasury status to inform future planning. The Prime Minister assured that her strategy will also consider Tobago’s needs, aiming for a collaborative model between the national government and the Tobago House of Assembly.
The Prime Minister concluded by alluding to a vision of unity in addressing the nation’s challenges, referencing the national anthem’s sentiment, “Side by side we stand.” This approach underlines her commitment to fostering economic growth and energy sustainability throughout the country.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration has laid out ambitious plans to revitalize Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector while fulfilling key campaign promises. By exploring potential gas deals with Grenada, Guyana, and Suriname, her government aims to leverage regional partnerships for economic advancement. Additionally, a focus on legislative changes and financial accountability is expected, which, combined with collaborative efforts involving Tobago, could herald a new era for the nation’s energy strategy.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
