Taking Pigeon Point back

Although happy over the move, some stakeholders have questioned whether the estate is really worth the money the THA paid for it.

"Although it is not worth the money, it is good that it is in the hands of the THA, said president of the South West Fishing Association, Danny Melville.

This view was shared by All Tobago Fisherfolk Association, President Emile Louis.

"We have achieved the goal of stopping the restriction on the livelihood of our members, however there was some disappointment in the end. Too much money was paid for it when it was bought a couple years ago for only $17 million dollars. This money could have been spent on upgrading the fishing industry. It’s like we bought it from ourselves at a tremendous price but I guess we will soon be able to determine for ourselves whether it was really worth it."

It is hoped that plans for proper fishing facilities will move full speed ahead.

Another aspect of the estate being taken into consideration with respect to the cost is that at least 60% of it can be classified as wetlands that have little or no potential for physical development based on existing policies.

Numerous proposals have been made with respect to the development of the environmentally sensitive area, which, according to recent statements by THA chief secretary Orville London, "has tremendous potential to become a world-class marine park."

It’s proper management has been seen as critical to the survival of the infamous Buccoo Reef and the surrounding marine environment and propositions have been made for the establishment of a park inclusive of all the wetlands on the Bon Accord Lagoon.

It has been proposed that the marine park be managed by an appropriate private sector on lease terms and conditions agreed set by the THA.

The fishing fraternity has indicated that any facility for the Southwest fishing industry should be located at the area in Pigeon Point known as Wind Hole, since this is viewed as the safest area for landing and mooring activities.

A proposal for the establishment of the Southwest Fishing Facility, presented to the THA, pointed out that "fish from Tobago is not only sold to the local market but also to the international markets in the USA, Canada and Europe."

"In order to ensure that our fish is acceptable to the international market, landing facilities must be designed and developed to adequately meet the rate of service that will afford all fishing vessels to dock and transfer their catch as quickly as possible," one document said.

It further proposed that there should be a building in which each fisherman will be provided with a suitably sized room for storage of engines, fuel tanks and tackle, which should also carry toilet and bathroom facilities for fishermen. Also, facilities for the sale of fish to the local consumer, a car park for both consumers and fishing industry personnel, and a security and management building, are being looked at.

Louis said that he hopes that THA Agriculture Secretary, Hilton Sandy, will soon make good on his promise to use the jetty for the safe mooring of fishing vessels and the posting of a security guard in the area to deal with piracy and engine thefts.