By Sue-Ann Wayow
THERE is no reason why Trinidad and Tobago should not re-open all its sectors completely.
This was the declaration by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley on Tuesday evening. He said that decisions will be made soon on how to progress going forward after discussions with the health team.
Dr Rowley was speaking at a People’s National Movement (PNM) public meeting in San Fernando.
He said, “Tonight we continue to be mindful of the fact that there is a pandemic and that there are viruses out there that we should avoid. But we appear as though we are in a place where we are coping with the virus and the economy is doing well.
“I waited to see what was going to happen after Carnival. The 14 days after Carnival would have come and gone. That additional mixing that we did has not change our circumstance for the worse so I am now being minded to tell the country I see no reason now not to open up the country completely”
His statements were greeted by loud applause from the audience.
He said, “Within the next few days, I would meet with our health team and we will take decisions commensurate with the circumstances in Trinidad and Tobago and compare it to what is happening elsewhere.”
Dr Rowley reminded supporters that there were still countries facing major outbreaks of the Covid-19 virus and there was still need for caution.
“But we can be a whole lot more operational,” he said.
The prime minister said the economy has gone through a very difficult period but growth was still being expected.
Those requiring government assistance will be able to access it and those who can help themselves will be encouraged to do so, Dr Rowley added.
“We will strengthen our position going forward,” he said.
He encouraged, “All I ask of you is to think wisely, behave sensibly, ignore the foolishness, ignore those with cocoa in the sun trying to give you the impression that there will be no rain.”
Dr Rowley said the nation has been making successful strides despite all the lockdowns and major changes and the population needed to be grateful for those.
He also announced that soon both Minister of Finance Colm Imbert and Minister of Education Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly will speak on national matters relating to their ministries.
