PM Persad-Bissessar Targets Energy and Reforms in New Administration

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has prioritized immediate reforms and energy initiatives following her inauguration, focusing on repealing legislation and exploring new oil and gas opportunities in Grenada, Guyana, and Suriname. She has also declared the Dragon Field gas deal with Venezuela concluded, while emphasizing economic collaboration with Tobago.

In a recent address, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar emphasized her government’s commitment to initiate key initiatives swiftly following her inauguration. Speaking to guests at the President’s House in Port of Spain on May 3, she underscored the urgency to fulfill campaign promises. Crucial among her initial actions include repealing the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority Act and introducing laws on self-defense, home invasions, and firearm authorization for responsible citizens.

Persad-Bissessar clarified that these reforms, which she described as “low-hanging fruits,” will not demand vast financial resources but hinge on her administration’s determination to implement them. Furthermore, she has tasked her Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Dr. Roodal Moonilal, with the responsibility of exploring new oil and gas sources for Trinidad and Tobago. She highlighted the nation’s historical advantage in the oil sector and proposed marketing it to nearby Caricom nations.

The Prime Minister signaled readiness to investigate opportunities presented by neighboring Guyana concerning gas imports. She also mentioned potential collaborations with Suriname, emphasizing that dialogue will focus on how they can partner effectively as energy producers. Surprisingly, Persad-Bissessar revealed intentions to send her Minister of Energy to Grenada, as reports suggest that Grenada may have significant natural gas and oil reserves possibly exceeding those in the Dragon Field.

Addressing the status of the previously negotiated Dragon Field gas deal with Venezuela, she stated unequivocally that the deal is, in fact, concluded. Looking ahead, she has instructed Minister of Finance Dave Tancoo to evaluate the current financial status of the Treasury critically.

Moreover, the Prime Minister assured that her administration’s plans would also include the Tobago region, indicating a collaborative approach with the Tobago House of Assembly. “We will be looking at a model together where we can truly reflect what we sing in our anthem: ‘Side by side we stand,'” she remarked, reflecting a vision for inclusive economic growth across Trinidad and Tobago.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration is poised to take swift action on numerous fronts, focusing on both internal reforms and regional energy initiatives. Her commitment to fulfilling campaign promises while exploring gas opportunities in Grenada, Guyana, and Suriname reflects a strategic approach to bolster Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector. Furthermore, her inclusive vision for Tobago figures prominently in her plans, suggesting a broader aim for unifying the nation in shared economic goals.

Original Source: newsday.co.tt