News
Tobago Oil Spill Clean Up Efforts
The Chief Secretary provided updates on the cleanup efforts of the oil spill following the overturning of a vessel in the vicinity of Canoe Bay. He said the process of cleaning up the spill is ongoing and the incident is being classified as a Tier II disaster.
Scarborough, Tobago – February 8th, 2024 – Chief Secretary Farley Augustine addressed the media today, providing critical updates on the ongoing cleanup efforts of the oil spill that followed the overturning of an unidentified vessel in the vicinity of Canoe Bay. He confirmed that the process of containing and cleaning up the spill is actively underway and that the incident has been officially classified as a Tier II disaster.
Joining the Chief Secretary at the press conference, held at the Scarborough Lay-by (Stage by the sea), were Allan Stewart, Director of the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), and Infrastructure Secretary Assemblyman Trevor James.
Stewart shared that while numerous stakeholders are collaborating on the cleanup, the overall cost of the disaster remains unknown at this early stage. Assemblyman James further highlighted a significant challenge: specialized equipment needed for the extensive cleanup is currently not available on the island, potentially impacting the speed and efficacy of operations.
Chief Secretary Farley Augustine reassured the media that proper protocols would be rigorously followed to contain the oil spill and minimize environmental harm to Tobago’s marine and coastal ecosystems. This ongoing response highlights the critical need for robust disaster management strategies and resources in the face of such environmental emergencies.
