Reform of Licensing on the front burner

This despite several attempts on my part to crack down on the many inefficiencies that plague the division.

I have taken a hands-on approach to dealing with the levels of poor customer service meted out to many and I too have grown frustrated by the complaints that I receive on the frequent trips that have to be made to the Licensing Division to get what should be rightfully citizens’ in this nation — good service.

It is time for action and I have placed the reform of this division on the front burner. I would be the first to admit that there are many issues affecting the operations of the Licensing Division, but I remain resolute in my commitment to facing these challenges head-on to bring relief to the public. Changes to these systematic issues will not happen overnight, but I will follow through with it during my tenure as Minister of Works and Transport.

In the short to medium term the ministry will review plans for the relocation of the Arima Licensing Office as well as plans to upgrade the division in Tobago.

The improvement and upgrade of the nation’s current licensing system are also forthcoming and are intended to strengthen the institutional, administrative and legal arrangements, thereby ensuring that the best practices of public accountability and transparency are upheld.

The many allegations of corruption at the Licensing Office will continue to weigh heavily, not only on my ministry but the entire nation if it is not sufficiently addressed. In this regard I call on all members of the public to carry on in their efforts to highlight unethical practices whenever and however they can. It is only then that incidences of poor customer service, inefficient and ineffective offices and all lawlessness will be stopped.

I also take this opportunity to assure the general public that the issue of the shortage of inspection stickers is being dealt with as a matter of priority, as it is my desire to bring relief to motorists and people conducting business at all Licensing Offices across TT in the shortest amount of time.

Additionally, the public is advised that despite the shortage of inspection stickers at some locations, people can still proceed to have their vehicles inspected.

Upon completion of the inspection process, people should be issued an inspection certificate, which will suffice as a means of proof until inspection stickers are available at authorised inspection sites.

I express my sincerest thanks to members of the general public for their honest and brutal feedback where necessary, and I encourage people to continue voicing their opinions as a means of shining light on the systems we must repair and amend together.

Rohan Sinanan Minister of Works and Transport