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| Vernella Alleyne-Toppin |
According to residents, the contractors hired by the National Maintenance Training and Security (MTS) ltd, who the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) had awarded a project manager's contract completed the demolition of a building close to the bandstand area.
The resident pointed out that the area had been earmarked to construct temporary facilities for relocating the affected vendors along the beach front.
"The workers snuck in last Sunday morning and demolished the whole shed then put up a structure with galvanized roof that they are now saying is for their tools," reported one concerned resident.
"The project has not stopped at all," declared the source. "They seemed to be very rushed in their activities. Why the hurry?" questioned the resident.
The issue of the Charlotteville Beachfront Beautification plan had been simmering ever since it was came to the fore in July 2011. While the residents of Charlotteville are split over the project, the issue had been generating quite a heated debate among Tobagonians and even visitors to the island.
Some villagers argue that the development plan could bring much needed employment opportunities during the construction phase and an improvement in the look and quality of life in the village. Others insist that the natural and rustic charm of the fishing community would be destroyed forever by placing an imposing concrete and glass facility along the beachfront.
One affected vendor had suggested that a better approach would have been for the THA to offer the vendors soft loans and or grants to improve their existing structures. "We suggested this to officials of the THA but they have refused to listen to us and are intent on proceeding with the project despite our objections," fumed the vendor.
Contacted on the matter, Area Representative, Tracey Davidson-Celestine told Tobago News that the people of Charlotteville are ready and waiting to protest any action taken by MP for Tobago East and/or the People's Partnership government to stop the project and hinder the enhancement of their community. "For the last two years, discussions on this project have been on-going and it has finally come to the point where there is consensus and where the project is moving forward. They are already up in arms about the stalled jetty and they are not prepared to undergo the same situation with regards to their shops," Celestine said.
According to Celestine, the project managers have indicated that there is no need for EMA approval for a project of that size. "This is a clear case of political manoeuvring," the area representative stressed.
MP for Tobago-East, Vernella Alleyne-Toppin hit back at the representative saying that while some villagers are upset with her (Toppin) others are also disappointed with Celestine because she has not settled on what is best for the village.
"We must arrive at something that is amicable and in the best interest of the community. It should not be a situation that we as politicians are bullying the people into submission," Toppin told Tobago News.
The TOP Parliamentarian said she stands committed to the people who have objected to the project for environmental reasons.
"I am not trying to stall any project, I am looking for the best possible solution, Toppin said. She insisted that there is need for a structure that reflects the ambience of the village. Drawing reference to the Buccoo Integrated facility, Toppin posited that what is being proposed would be breaking the view of the landscape.
"I am for following the laws and I am not aware that the EMA has given approval for the project," Toppin maintained.
Last year, Minister Toppin had taken a petition signed by several villagers to Cabinet and the document was referred to the Minister of Environment.
reproduced from tobagonews.
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