分类： business

The development of a new 200-bed luxury hotel on Tobago’s scenic southwest coast has advanced significantly, with the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) initiating a public consultation phase on November 21. The EMA has invited public feedback on the Certificate of Environmental Clearance application for the proposed Marriott Hotel at Rocky Point, Mt Irvine. This marks a pivotal step in the project’s journey toward realization. John Aboud, Chairman of Superior Hotels, the company spearheading the initiative, confirmed that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been completed and submitted following an extensive and costly study. The process included three public consultations in Tobago, ensuring local voices were heard. The EMA has set a deadline of December 12 for written objections, with the EIA available for review at various public venues. Aboud emphasized that the project has been meticulously planned to address environmental and conservation concerns, including preserving the historic fort at the site. He highlighted that the hotel aims to enhance the area’s appeal as a tourist destination while respecting its natural and cultural heritage. Despite concerns raised by environmentalists and conservationists, Aboud assured that the project aligns with their goals of preserving the site’s value. Activists have yet to comment publicly, opting to review the EMA application first.

Visham Babwah, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Automotive Dealers Association (TTADA), has voiced significant concerns regarding the government’s recent decision to extend the permissible age for importing foreign-used private vehicles. The new policy, announced by Minister of Transport and Public Aviation Eli Zakour on November 20, allows the importation of vehicles up to eight years old, a notable increase from the previous three-year limit. Additionally, the permissible age for light commercial vehicles, pickups, and panel vans with diesel engines has been raised from seven to ten years.

Babwah, who also serves as CEO of P&V Marketing Co Ltd, criticized the move, warning that it could position Trinidad and Tobago as a ‘dumping ground’ for older, less reliable vehicles. He emphasized the potential environmental and safety risks associated with importing vehicles that may have already exceeded 50% of their lifespan. ‘In 2010, we successfully lobbied for a six-year limit because vehicles older than that are often unreliable and harmful to the environment,’ Babwah stated.

While acknowledging that cheaper vehicles might appeal to some consumers, Babwah cautioned that older cars could pose significant financial and safety challenges. He highlighted potential issues with financing and insurance, noting that banks and insurance companies are often reluctant to support vehicles nearing the end of their lifespan. ‘People would have to conduct extensive checks on these vehicles, and they might face difficulties securing loans or comprehensive insurance,’ he explained.

The decision has sparked debate over its potential impact on the local automotive market and the broader implications for road safety and environmental sustainability. Babwah questioned the rationale behind the policy shift, stating, ‘It was announced in the budget that the permissible age would move from three to six years. I am not sure who advised the Minister to increase it to eight.’

Minister Zakour also mentioned that Trinidad and Tobago currently lacks a legal framework for the recognition, registration, and regulated use of classic, antique, and vintage vehicles, further complicating the issue.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago recently convened a high-level meeting with Nutrien’s top executives, including President and CEO Ken Seitz, Senior Vice President of Nitrogen Operations Dean Perkins, Vice President and Managing Director of Nutrien Trinidad Edmund Thompson, and Manager of Government and Industry Affairs Nneka Mentore. The meeting, held on November 21, also included Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal and NGC Chairman Gerald Ramdeen. This engagement followed Nutrien’s phased shutdown of its Point Lisas Estate operations, which began on October 23 due to port access issues and unreliable natural gas supply, leaving nearly 600 workers unemployed. Nutrien, a major exporter of ammonia to North America, has been a significant contributor to Trinidad and Tobago’s foreign exchange earnings. The government emphasized its commitment to safeguarding jobs and fostering continued investment in the energy sector. Energy Minister Moonilal reiterated the government’s open-door policy with Nutrien and other energy companies, signaling readiness to discuss future investments and projects. Meanwhile, NGC Chairman Ramdeen noted that the shutdown has spurred increased output from other companies at the Point Lisas Industrial Estate.