标签： Trinidad and Tobago

In a landmark move, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has introduced a comprehensive 10-year infrastructural development plan, dubbed the TT Revitalisation Blueprint, aimed at transforming Trinidad and Tobago’s economic and physical landscape by 2035. The ambitious initiative, unveiled at a high-profile event attended by business leaders, foreign diplomats, and investors, outlines 129 major projects expected to generate over 50,000 jobs and address long-standing infrastructural challenges. The Congress of the People (COP) has lauded the plan, with Deputy Political Leader Imran Ali praising the Prime Minister’s vision and leadership. Ali emphasized that the blueprint reflects a much-needed commitment to inclusive and pragmatic development, focusing on infrastructure renewal, justice reform, and tourism. Key projects include the expansion of the Port of Spain port, redevelopment of waterfront areas, and the creation of a 100-mile highway network connecting San Fernando to Mayaro and Galeota. The plan also proposes a modern justice centre at Tamana and a national security complex in Mt Hope, replacing outdated prisons. Additionally, the government aims to boost tourism through luxury resorts and cultural investments, including a 400-berth marina and convention centre at Invaders Bay. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar described the blueprint as a ‘declaration of intent’ to build enduring structures that will define the nation’s future. Financing will rely on partnerships between the state, local businesses, and foreign investors, with construction expected to commence by mid-2026. The COP expressed confidence in the plan’s potential to restore public trust in governance and drive sustainable development, calling it a pledge of renewed opportunity and shared prosperity for all citizens.

The Trinidad and Tobago government has unveiled an ambitious ten-year infrastructure development plan, the Trinidad and Tobago Revitalization Blueprint, aimed at transforming the nation’s landscape. Launched by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on November 6 at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s, the initiative is set to commence in August 2026 and is projected to generate over 50,000 jobs. The plan includes 129 construction projects, ranging from the expansion of the Port of Spain Port to the development of a 100-mile road network connecting San Fernando to communities like Mayaro. Additionally, it proposes the demolition of several prisons and their replacement with a centralized justice center in Tamana, linked to a national security complex in Mt Hope.

However, the plan has faced sharp criticism from opposition figures. Former finance minister and Diego Martin North East MP Colm Imbert dismissed the proposal as unrealistic, citing the government’s current financial struggles, including delayed salary payments and unpaid contractors. San Fernando East MP Brian Manning accused the administration of recycling the Vision 2020 plan originally proposed by his late father, former Prime Minister Patrick Manning. Manning argued that the current government lacks originality and is now attempting to implement ideas it previously criticized.

Works Minister Jearlean John defended the plan, emphasizing its potential to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. She assured that local contractors and small businesses would benefit through specified minimum local content thresholds in project proposals. John also expressed confidence in the plan’s long-term sustainability, citing public support for performance-based governance. To ensure transparency, she noted that the Office of Procurement Regulator would oversee the implementation process.

Despite the government’s optimism, the plan’s feasibility remains a contentious issue, with opposition leaders questioning its financial viability and accusing the administration of political opportunism.

The Joint Trade Union Movement (JTUM), a prominent ally of Trinidad and Tobago’s UNC government, has thrown its weight behind a peace vigil advocating for the Caribbean to remain a zone of peace. Organized by eight local civil society groups, the event is set to take place at Woodford Square in Port of Spain on November 9, from 5 to 7 pm. This initiative comes amid escalating tensions in the region, fueled by increased US military activity targeting narco-trafficking operations. Since September 2, US strikes have reportedly killed 70 individuals suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. JTUM, in a November 7 media release, expressed grave concerns over the potential consequences of military escalation, warning that Trinidad and Tobago could find itself ‘on the frontline’ of a conflict. The union emphasized that war benefits no one and stressed the necessity of peace for regional stability and economic progress. The UNC government, led by Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has aligned with the Trump administration’s regional security initiatives, which include deploying destroyers, a nuclear submarine, amphibious craft, and an aircraft carrier, along with over 10,000 troops. Critics, including JTUM and vigil organizers, argue that this growing military presence near Venezuelan waters threatens regional peace and stability. The vigil’s organizers, such as the Emancipation Support Committee and Movement for Social Justice, describe the event as a non-partisan effort to raise awareness about the humanitarian and economic risks of potential conflict. They warn that any military escalation in Venezuela could lead to mass migration to Trinidad and Tobago, disrupt trade, and damage investor confidence. JTUM’s endorsement of the vigil highlights a growing consensus within the country for the Caribbean to remain a peaceful region.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar recently unveiled the TT Revitalisation Blueprint at the newly renamed Delivery Centre in St Ann’s, presenting a bold vision for the nation’s future. The plan, showcased via a QR code, aims to address years of policy stagnation and introduce transformative projects. However, skepticism remains as critics question the feasibility and transparency of the initiative. Works Minister Jearlean John expressed optimism, suggesting construction could begin by August 2026, with a long-term outlook extending to 2035. Yet, past experiences with ambitious state projects, such as those under Patrick Manning’s Vision 2020, have left citizens wary of lofty promises and vague timelines. The government plans to fund these projects through public-private partnerships and government-to-government deals, avoiding direct strain on the public purse. While the blueprint has been praised for its ambition, concerns persist regarding environmental protection, local involvement, and job sustainability. The government’s lack of detailed implementation plans and concrete timelines has further fueled doubts. As the administration seeks to rally both domestic and international support, the success of this ambitious blueprint will hinge on its ability to deliver tangible results and maintain transparency.