Trinidad & Tobago marks 55 years of independence

Trinidad & Tobago’s Prime Minister Keith Rowley has urged the citizens of twin-island nation to be “focused and fearless” as the country seeks to implement progressive strategies and policies.

On Thursday, in his address to mark the 55 years of political independence, Rowley said that in order to continue on the path of growth and development – “we the people are mandated to foster a strong patriotism as well as our own capacity to take full advantage of opportunities through clear focus, grit and determination.”

“Despite our challenges, I believe that Trinidad & Tobago continues to live up to the promise and potential we demonstrated in 1962 and we can ill-afford to falter now. We must strengthen our democratic institutions and implement policies that are tailored to our specific conditions and developmental objectives. In so doing, we will increase our chances of success exponentially.”
“I believe that we are a winning team of capable, enlightened citizens. Let us come together as a winning team,” he said. “Our nation’s motto says it best: together we aspire, together we achieve. I implore you to re-commit to these words daily as we build a better nation”, he added.

In his message, President Anthony Carmona said the diversity of the twin island republic is its strength.
The president urged special acclaim for one of the country’s national symbols – the Scarlet Ibis as well as the athletes .

“In this regard, I make a clarion call to protect our national flora and fauna, especially our national birds. One such beautiful symbol is the Scarlet Ibis in flight or nesting on the mangrove trees of the Caroni Swamp. There must be no compromise in our fight to protect the Scarlet Ibis.”
Carmona also paid tribute to athletes who represent the nation.

For her part opposition leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Trinidad & Tobago is in a state of crisis.
The former Prime Minister said “there is a sense of hopelessness in the country” and attributed this to “another sharp decline in our economy”.

However in spite of all of these negatives, Persad-Bissessar says the citizens “are capable of greatness in every area.”

She said the opposition is currently, “developing policy proposals to build our economy, create sustainable jobs and to continue to develop our nation’s human capital.” Persad-Bissessar said these proposals include the development of a knowledge-driven diversified and growing economy.

She urged all citizens to play their part in rebuilding the country’s sense of patriotism and nationhood and it is incumbent on all people to build a society which is one of, “acceptance, tolerance and equality.” -(CMC)