Facing the storm

The 22nd Public Hearing of the Joint Select Committee on Local Authorities, Service Commissions, and Statutory Authorities focused on the efficiency and effectiveness of Municipal Corporations and the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) in responding to natural disasters. During the hearing, Allan Stewart, the Director of the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), emphasized the urgency of taking immediate measures to improve disaster preparedness. “We want to see those things strengthen as where they ought to be. We want to look at institutionalized strengthening. We want to see total buy in by the Tobago House of Assembly and that has been demonstrated to some degree.”

Stewart pointed out challenges, which include funding issues and critical vacancies. TEMA takes pride in its use of technology, particularly information and communication technology (ICT). However, Stewart highlighted challenges associated with aging infrastructure, specifically concerning ICT components and vehicles. Regarding the delayed construction of the Emergency Operation Centre, a topic under discussion since 2005.

As stakeholders deliberate on the findings, the need to strengthen Tobago’s emergency response capabilities becomes increasingly evident. Scientists predict that as climate change continues to be an increasing concern, there will be more extreme weather conditions leading to natural disasters.

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