Imbert says he is sorry

During a High-Level Caribbean Forum, co-hosted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, last Wednesday, Imbert drew the ire of trade unionists and public sector workers when he said the Government removed the fuel subsidy by 15 percent three times since being elected into office, and there was no riot as yet. He added that because of this, he may very well remove the subsidy by another 15 percent.

Speaking in the Parliament, yesterday, during a motion to confirm the Provision of Taxes Order in the 2016 Budget, the minister referred to the widespread fallout from his comments, saying he “unreservedly apologised” for the indiscretion.

“Perhaps, Madam Speaker, before I go any further, this might be an opportune time,” he said in his preface to the debate on the motion.

“There a conference in Trinidad and Tobago last week designed to deal with the challenges facing Trinidad and Tobago and the economies of the Caribbean. During that conference, Madam Speaker, I made certain statements and on reflection and having reviewed and looked at the tape of the comments that I made and the manner in which I made them, I realised that this would have upset a lot of people and, therefore, I take this opportunity to unreservedly apologise to all affected,” Imbert told the House.

His apology elicited loud desk-thumping from members of the Opposition which caused the Speaker to intervene. House Speaker Bridgid Annisette-George first took aim at San Juan/Barataria MP Dr Fuad Khan, saying: “Member for San Juan/Barataria, I am on my legs. I just want to advise members that while desk-thumping is allowed, if it is excessively loud or excessively noisy, I can consider it disorderly. Please be guided accordingly.” Minutes later, following continued desk-thumping over Imbert’s apology, the Speaker again intervened.

“Members, just to advise that the Standing orders are going to be strictly enforced. We are here over a year now and everyone is supposed to understand the Standing Orders.” Imbert’s apology came as he dealt with several procedural matters arising out of the Budget, including confirmation of the Provisional Collection of Taxes Order, Customs Duty- Caribbean Common Market Amendment Order, Excise Duty (Alcoholic Beverages) Order and Excise Duty (Tobacco Products) Order.

He said the measures imposed in the Budget were meant to generate much-needed revenue as the Government grappled with an uncertain economic future. Imbert predicted that the Donald Trump ascent to the Presidency of the United States, which he regarded as an “unexpected development”, may do little to ease the situation.