Why so long for fishing agreement?

THE EDITOR: Who does it take over 12 years and successive governments of both countries for Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados to reach a bilateral agreement on fishing issues between the two countries?

I am not fully aware of all the issues involved, but I do not believe that it should take this many years for the two countries to come to a framework of understanding on something as simple and vital as this to both country’s fishermen’s livelihoods. I also agree with PM Mr Arthur that the fisheries agreement between his country and TT needs to be resolved before they can move on new and bigger issues. There should be tough but fair negotiations with the Barbadian government that would result in an agreement that will ensure the livelihood of the fishermen in both countries.

PM Manning should have his technocrats move on this issue with all haste and resolve this and any outstanding matters with this valued and friendly neighbour, so the relationship can move on to higher levels, instead of slide backwards. The problems (whatever they are) bring up the bigger question(s) of how disputes such as trade, travel and other important issues among the CARICOM members will be resolved. As I see it, if the parties (countries) cannot work out their differences in an amiable way or take forever to get these issues resolved, then what does it say for much bigger ones? I guess that is what the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) will be there for. I hope they are ready!

KELVIN JAMES, Sr
Port-of-Spain