All fourteen municipal corporations participating in Trinidad and Tobago’s government-initiated Public Spaces Maintenance Program have reported exceptionally positive outcomes, with many requesting additional workforce allocations. Local Government Minister Khadijah Ameen confirmed the widespread approval following a January 14 stakeholder meeting, indicating strong productivity metrics across all regions.
The innovative pilot scheme, approved by the Cabinet, employs workers directly through the Ministry of Local Government rather than traditional contractors. These workers have been deployed to regional corporations to execute maintenance operations encompassing recreation facilities, educational institutions, roadside verges, and cemetery grounds. Although school maintenance typically falls outside the ministry’s jurisdiction, corporations strategically utilized these resources to address pressing infrastructural needs.
Minister Ameen revealed that municipal authorities provided detailed progress reports quantifying cleared acreage and square meters, demonstrating measurable achievements. Beyond workforce expansion requests, corporations submitted minor requisitions for tools and protective equipment, while proposing administrative process refinements.
A significant recommendation emerged regarding flood mitigation strategies. Corporations proposed deploying manual labor during dry seasons to clear watercourses and drainage systems, potentially reducing seasonal flooding impacts. This proactive approach would complement existing flood-mitigation equipment programs.
The ministry maintains continuous communication with participating corporations and will compile a comprehensive report for Cabinet review. With approximately 200 workers currently engaged, the program represents a governmental shift from transient “make-work” initiatives toward sustainable employment models that provide decent wages while eliminating intermediary contractors.
Minister Ameen emphasized the dual benefit of cost efficiency and direct worker compensation achieved by removing political intermediaries and contractor layers. Program expansion remains contingent upon Cabinet approval and funding availability following the successful pilot evaluation.