High Court Grants Judicial Review Approval For Stephon Isaac To Challenge E-idcot Over Procurement Of Manager For Manta Lodge Hotel

The High Court has granted Tobago resident Stephon Isaac permission to challenge the Eco-Industrial Development Company of Tobago (E-IDCOT) for refusing to release key documents on the Manta Lodge Hotel Agreement with Choice Hotels International. The case, brought under the Freedom of Information Act, seeks details on legal consultations, contract terms, and financial arrangements related to the hotel’s management. A hearing is set for March 28th, 2025. In 2024, Isaac requested information on the process used by E-IDCOT to procure a manager of the hotel. However, his request was denied because E-IDCOT claimed they are not obligated to fulfil FOI requests because it is a private company, even though it was established and funded by the THA. Minority Leader Kelvon Morris welcomed the ruling, calling it a victory for transparency. He said this is a major step in ensuring accountability because Tobagonians deserve to know how public assets are managed and who benefits. Morris urged the public to support efforts to uncover the full details, stressing that the Manta Lodge deal must serve Tobago’s best interests.