Former minister and Tobago East MP Shamfa Cudjoe-Lewis is questioning the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) over what she says are widespread delays in payments to Tobagonians, despite the Assembly receiving what she described as its largest budget allocation in history.
In a social media statement, Cudjoe-Lewis said many residents raised concerns with her throughout July, including mothers, Carnival stakeholders, fishermen, maxi taxi concessionaires and other community members who claim they are still awaiting payments or financial assistance.
She alleged that Carnival stakeholders from last year’s Tobago Carnival remain unpaid as the island prepares for another festival, while stakeholders from Trinidad have already received their payments. She argued that the festival was intended to develop Tobago’s creative sector and questioned whether Tobagonians are receiving the intended economic benefits.
Cudjoe-Lewis also highlighted the plight of fishermen affected by the oil spill, claiming some are still waiting for compensation more than two years later. She called on the THA’s Division of Agriculture to address the outstanding payments and provide greater support to affected fisherfolk.
Among the other concerns raised were delayed payments to maxi taxi concessionaires who worked during the Dogs Diving event, delayed grants for Heritage Personality Show contestants, and claims that student athletes have missed opportunities because of funding constraints.
Cudjoe-Lewis questioned whether the THA had received its full statutory allocation from the Central Government or whether the Assembly had received the funds but failed to prioritise payments to Tobagonians.
She called on the THA to provide clear answers and greater accountability, saying residents deserve to know why outstanding payments remain unresolved.
The THA has not publicly responded to the allegations made by Cudjoe-Lewis in the statement.
Article and image source: facebook.com
