Economist Indera Sagewan has urged the Trinidad and Tobago government to address the billions of dollars reportedly owed to contractors, emphasizing that delayed payments have severely undermined confidence, crippled businesses, and weakened one of the nation’s most vital economic sectors. Speaking at the Trinidad and Tobago Contractors Association’s (TTCA) annual awards dinner on November 15 in Port of Spain, Sagewan highlighted the construction industry’s resilience in weathering financial and logistical shocks, while stressing the need for immediate action to restore its health. She clarified that her remarks were made in her personal capacity as an economist, not as a representative of the Central Bank, where she serves as a director. Sagewan described the sector as being at a critical juncture, with immense opportunities ahead but also deep-rooted structural issues that must be resolved. She pointed to the post-pandemic era, where contractors faced skyrocketing costs for materials and shipping, prolonged supply chain disruptions, and significant payment delays from the government. “The billions owed to contractors are not just numbers on a ledger. They represent deferred livelihoods, stalled projects, and broken confidence,” she asserted. Her comments resonated with long-standing industry grievances, as contractors have struggled with months-long delays in receiving materials and government payments, leading to downsizing and project closures. Sagewan called for a reset in the relationship between the State and the construction industry, particularly as the new administration implements its Revitalisation and Economic Transformation Blueprint and the projects outlined in the 2026 national budget. She described the blueprint as a “long-awaited injection of big vision,” positioning the construction sector at the forefront of a decade-long development agenda. However, she cautioned that credibility would hinge on execution, not just policy declarations. Sagewan urged contractors to uphold high standards of delivery, transparency, and workmanship, while also expressing frustration with past failures, such as poorly constructed roads and homes. Housing Minister David Lee echoed Sagewan’s concerns, acknowledging the government’s commitment to reversing years of stagnation and unreliable payment cycles. He emphasized the construction industry’s pivotal role in national revitalization, noting that the Revitalisation Blueprint includes 129 major projects expected to generate 50,000 jobs. Lee also pledged to address past housing delivery failures, with plans to build 20,000 affordable homes using innovative construction methods. While he did not specify the exact amount owed to contractors, Lee signaled the government’s intent to improve payment reliability and strengthen partnerships with the industry.