Khan: Tobago to get new ferry

WORKS and Transport Minister Franklyn Khan disclosed that Tobago will get a new ferry in a matter of weeks and transportation will feature prominently in the upcoming 2004/2005 Budget. Speaking at yesterday’s post-PNM General Council (GC) news conference at Balisier House, Khan said, “The Central Tenders Board is very close to making an award on the ferry.” Asked to give a more specific time period, the Minister replied, “I would say weeks.”

Noting that Government had mandated BWIA to wet lease two aircraft to ease pressures on the Tobago air bridge, Khan said transportation issues between Trinidad and Tobago are likely to receive special attention in the upcoming Budget. “The transport link is fundamental to the unitary state of TT. That is of strategic importance, not just commercial importance,” he declared. Khan said the GC was updated by Tobago House of Assembly’s (THA) Orville London about the PNM’s preparations for next year’s THA elections. According to Khan, London reported that the PNM is on course to retain control of the THA. Khan, who is also PNM chairman, said the only way for the PNM to lose control of the THA is for London or another senior member of the THA to do “something catastrophic.”

Khan also announced that every month a Cabinet minister will report to the GC on activities in his or her ministry and encourage party members to express their views on their stewardship. “Today, I gave such a presentation and it was fairly well received,” he said.