In a major campaign launch for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections, PNM Tobago Council leader Ancil Dennis has positioned his party as the sole contender with a viable plan for the island’s sustainable development. Speaking at the Magdalena Grand Hotel on December 21, Dennis unveiled the ‘Big Bold Red Deal’ – a comprehensive strategy designed specifically for Tobago’s 60,000 residents through extensive community consultations.
The centerpiece of PNM’s proposal involves creating 7,000 new jobs within four years across multiple sectors. Dennis emphasized that this employment initiative would directly address the island’s concerning birthrate decline by enabling families to achieve financial stability. The plan specifically targets 2,000 construction jobs, 1,000 agricultural positions, and 500 roles in the creative industries, with a firm commitment to prioritizing local contractors and workers.
Dennis sharply criticized the current Tobago People’s Party (TPP) administration, accusing them of economic stagnation and sidelining local businesses. He promised a return to transparency and accountability, particularly regarding official foreign travel, vowing that any taxpayer-funded trips would exclusively focus on securing concrete investments for Tobago’s development.
Additional components of the PNM plan include a $50 million annual contribution to community infrastructure development, micro-loans of up to $1 million for first-time entrepreneurs, and substantial support for the agricultural sector. Parlatuvier/L’anse Fourmi/Speyside candidate Maxslon N Robert revealed ambitions to transform Tobago into a ‘mega farm’ through new fishing ports and financial support for farmers developing five-acre plots.
The party also committed to cultural revitalization, with Mason Hall/North Mariah candidate Kwesi Des Vignes promising to ‘involve every single community’ in developing Tobago’s rich cultural expressions. Contract workers would see improved job security under PNM governance, with contract terms extending from three to five years according to Scarborough/Mt Grace candidate Petal Benoit.