Source document: https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1698929237102.pdf (Trinidad and Tobago)
2013 NSDS Public Consultation Report THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING DIVISION MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 11/28/2013 | P a g e Table of Contents 1.

Introduction 1.1 Structure of the Consultations 2.

The Consultation Process: Approach and Activities 2.1 Information Dissemination and the Publicity Strategy 2.2 Accommodation and Facilities 2.3 Format of the Consultation 3.
Report of the Findings 3.1 Overview 3.2 General Feedback on the Draft NSDS 3.3 Summary Transcripts of the Public Consultations North Trinidad Public Consultation South Trinidad Public Consultation Tobago Public Consultation Private Sector Consultation 3.4 Summary of the State/ Quasi State Consultation 4.
The Way Forward Appendix I 1 1 3 4 4 6 10 10 10 15 15 20 30 36 43 45 46 i | P a g e 1.0 Introduction The National Spatial Development Strategy (NSDS) for Trinidad and Tobago is expected to articulate a more strategic approach to the integration of national socio-economic and spatial planning towards the sustainable development of the country.

As the highest level of spatial planning, the NSDS will provide the broad policy agenda for the country over the next 20 years.
It sets the platform to guide more detailed regional and local planning at the municipal level as well as land use elements of the Growth Pole strategies.

Moreover, the NSDS is being developed to ensure equity in development of major facilities, infrastructure and services while preserving a high quality natural environment.
Additionally, in the midst of proposed planning reforms and the legislative overhaul of the Town and Country Planning Act, the NSDS serves as a critical marker and tangible departure from the old planning epoch.

It seeks to demonstrate a more positive approach to planning; one that emphasizes the facilitation of built development as opposed to simply its control.
To accomplish this, the process followed necessarily differentiates from that of its previous incarnation, the National Physical Development Plan (NPDP) 1984.

Public consultation features far more prominently in the NSDS so as to democratise the national planning process and thus provide an avenue for ordinary citizens to participate in the decision-making process in a real way.
In essence, consultation was front loaded into the process as, even prior to a formal NSDS draft document being prepared, the public was engaged to help formulate its vision, themes and objectives.

This was conducted via six (6) stakeholder consultations that were held in different venues throughout Trinidad and Tobago during the months of November and December, 2012.
The findings from these consultations were captured in a comprehensive report and subsequently used to help prepare the first draft of the NSDS in April, 2013.

The draft NSDS (which consists of four (4) documents) was publicly disseminated and the Ministry concurrently embarked on an aggressive media campaign to build awareness as well as to help attract persons to a second round of public consultations.
The operation combined the traditional elements of press, radio, television and direct mail with more dynamic public engagement platforms such as social media and an online website presence in an effort to reach as wide a spectrum of the general populace as possible.

Aside from oral representations at the consultations themselves, persons were invited to submit their comments and concerns directly by email or by “joining” the conversation on facebook and twitter.
This report aims to capture the feedback generated, as well as to highlight the revisions to the NSDS documentation that occurred as a result.

1.1 Structure of the Consultations Two public Consultations were held at one location each in the Northern and Southern regions of Trinidad and one consultation was held in Tobago.
Additionally, there were two specialised stakeholder consultations; one that catered to all Ministries, Municipal Corporations and State Agencies and another held in conjunction with the Trinidad and Tobago Business Chamber that catered to private (business) sector interests and professional groups.

Apart from the State consultation, they were all similar in execution.

Each Consultation consisted of a formal opening and 2 -3 presentation sessions.
The presentations, which addressed different facets of the NSDS, were about 15 – 20 minutes in duration and were each followed by a Q&A session.

1 | P a g e Participants addressed their questions and comments to a panel headed by the Minister of Planning and Sustainable Development.

A moderator managed the proceedings to ensure there was equitable opportunity for participation by all in attendance.

Each consultation concluded with closing remarks on the way forward from the Minister.
There was audio/visual recording of all the consultations.

The State/ Quasi-State consultation differed in format.

It was essentially an all-day function divided into two distinct sessions.

During the morning session, participants were introduced to the methodology that informed the NSDS and it culminated with a workshop exercise that allowed them to utilise those parameters to do their own appraisals of the three options generated for national development.
The afternoon session followed the more traditional format of the other consultations except feedback and discussions were structured sectorally as the Ministries themselves.

2 | P a g e 2.0 The Consultation Process: Approach and Activities The Consultation process constituted several activities which in their planning and implementation offered an opportunity for stakeholders to engage in a participatory process to review and critique the Draft NSDS.
At the core of this process is a belief system about the rights and responsibilities of the citizens to assist in shaping the type of society in which they wish to live.

Between the period April 24th - July 10th 2013, five (5) consultations were held, the logistical details of which are outlined in Table 2.0.1: TABLE 2.0.1 TYPE STATE/ QUASI STATE Wednesday 24th April DATE/TIME 9:00am - 4:00pm VENUE Grand Ballroom, Cascadia Hotel, St. Anns.
PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC Saturday 4th May 2:00pm - 6:00pm The Learning Resource Centre (LRC), University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus.

Saturday 11th May 2:00pm - 6:00pm Naparima Bowl, San Fernando.

General Public invited to attend.

Tuesday 28th May 4:00pm - 8:00pm Public Division of Infrastructure Utilities and (Works) Conference Room, Old Farm Rd, Shaw Park, TOBAGO.

PARTICULARS Representatives from all Ministries, and relevant State Agencies were invited to attend.
Workshop format that differed to the other public consultations.

General Public invited to attend.

Hosted in conjunction with the Tobago House of Assembly (THA).

Aside from the NSDS, the Comprehensive Economic Development Plan 2013 - 2017 (CEDP 2.0) for Tobago was also presented and discussed.

General Public invited to attend.

Chamber in conjunction Hosted with the Trinidad and Tobago of Industry and Commerce their invited who membership and other Chambers.
3 | P a g e PRIVATE SECTOR Wednesday 10th July 2:30pm - 6:00pm Leon Agostini Conference Hall, Chamber Building, Westmoorings.

2.1 Information Dissemination and the Publicity Strategy Physical copies of the 1st draft NSDS were stationed at the regional offices of the Town and Country Planning Division as well as at all of the Municipal Corporations and the THA for public perusal.

Additionally, copies were provided to: 1.

All Cabinet Ministers 2.

THA Assemblymen and appointed councillors 3.


Soft copies (CDs) were sent to the Permanent Secretaries of all Ministries and the CEOs of all State Agencies and Municipal Corporations.

A microsite was developed and the NSDS documentation posted online where it could be accessed and downloaded by anyone: http://www.planning.gov.tt/OurTnTOurFuture/ Once the dates and venues for public consultations were confirmed, the Ministry embarked on a media campaign to promote awareness and attendance.
The main elements of the campaign featured:  Press advertisements in all the national daily newspapers as well as the Tobago News  Television advertisements  Radio spots  Television and radio interviews  Facebook Engagement  The microsite  Online Ads  Direct mail  Emails to civil society groups and NGOs  Experiential/ "Street Activation" performances The main slogan for the campaign was "There is no F_T_RE without U".
Finally, participants from the first round of consultations which took place in November/ December 2012 were also directly informed and invited.
2.2 Accommodation and Facilities This section reviews the facilities used and discusses the ways in which they contributed to the ease of conduct of the Consultations, namely:     the venues where the Consultations were held; the placement of registration desks and meal stations; the timeliness of refreshments; and the provision of electrical outlets, internet services and other ancillary amenities.
2.2.1 State/Quasi-State Consultation The Consultation for Ministries and other State Agencies was held at the Grand Ballroom, Cascadia Hotel, St. Anns.

The preferred venue for this consultation workshop would have been a more centralised location within Port-of-Spain such as the Capital Plaza Hotel and Conference Centre or the Hyatt Regency Trinidad however these were unavailable on the relatively inflexible preferred date.
As such, 4 | P a g e due to the relative remoteness of the venue, access was the main challenge and this was the primary reason for the late start to proceedings.

This was exacerbated by the traffic congestion experienced at that time in the morning, however once at the venue, there was sufficient car parking space available.
The venue offered a large ballroom which easily accommodated the workshop style seating required and was neatly partitioned to allow for a light refreshment station as well as a registration station.

This ensured that there was little disruption from latecomers.

There were limited electrical outlets available which restricted the placement of Rapporteurs, but it was just about sufficient to handle the multi-media, audio/visual equipment and laptops that were utilised.
The projection screen provided by the hotel to display presentations was woefully inadequate; it was too small and could not be appropriately adjusted to fit the projector display.

Moreover, it was relatively immobile and could not be centred properly to maximise vantage points.

Hotel management handled catering and as noted before, a light refreshment station was set up to the rear that catered snack plates and drink refreshments during the morning session.
For lunch however, the participants were treated to a buffet styled meal in the Hotel Restaurant which was conveniently located next door to the Ballroom.

2.2.2 North Trinidad Public Consultation The North Trinidad Consultation was held at the LRC of the UWI St. Augustine Campus.

This venue was conveniently located and particularly accessible for those attending via public transport or the private car.

Car parking at UWI is constrained but sufficient for an event of this nature.
It is a centralised locus for those residing along the entire East/ West Corridor and is also a hub for tertiary students across the length and breadth of the nation.

The student bloc represents a critical demographic that is usually notoriously difficult to attract to consultation events of this nature however the benefit was somewhat negated by the consultation occurring during the May/June exam period at the university.
The stadium styled seating provided was appropriate to the format of the consultation and there were excellent facilities in place to support the multimedia and other ancillary equipment utilised.

The presentations could be viewed clearly and the acoustics of the room was excellent.

There was no lobby area however and so registration took place outside the building.
Additionally there was limited space available to set up visual aids and other display paraphernalia and they ran the risk of getting wet if the rain fell.

Another negative was the lack of disability access to the venue as the elevator was out of service.

Light snack refreshments were provided after the consultation concluded and were served outside of the building as there was no eating or drinking allowed inside.
An external caterer was sourced but there were no problems encountered in distributing the snacks.

2.2.3 South Trinidad Public Consultation This consultation was held at the Naparima Bowl, San Fernando and was targeted to all of the southern communities.

Its location at the western periphery of the Central Business District offered relatively easy access to public transportation.

There were adequate parking facilities available for those attending via the private automobile.
The layout of the venue was conducive to a consultation of this nature; however the elevated stage upon which the consultation panel was seated did lend an unintended air of formality to the proceedings, which may have inhibited persons from articulating their fullest expression.

There was sufficient space in the open foyer outside of the auditorium for a registration station as well as the display of visual aids.

As such, there was minimal disruption from late comers.
Refreshments after the consultation were served in this area as well and these were organised through an external caterer.

5 | P a g e The venue provided internet service and adequate electrical outlets for the use of computers and audio/visual equipment.
2.2.4 Tobago Public Consultation The Consultation for the State Sector was held at the Division of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (Works) Conference Room, Old Farm Road, Shaw Park, Tobago, just off of the Claude Noel Highway and west of Scarborough Proper.

It is accessible by both private and public transportation and there is sufficient car parking available at the venue.
Unavoidably however, its location in the main urban region of Scarborough meant that the consultation was difficult to access from the more rural communities to the North East of the island.

The consultation was broadcasted live however by Radio Tambrin 92.7FM, one of the more popular radio stations on the island.

Compared to the other consultation venues, the meeting room was relatively small.
Moreover there was insufficient space in the lobby area of the building to house the registration station, provision of refreshments and the presentation of visual aids and therefore these elements had to be accommodated within the confines of the conference room as well.
Thus, when combined with the space requirements of the multimedia equipment, rapporteur laptops as well as the broadcasting equipment of the radio station, the end result was the final setting being a bit cramped for the consultation participants themselves.

The registration station being located within the conference room resulted in some disturbance to proceedings when treating with late comers.
There was a distinct lack of working electrical outlets however this problem was mitigated by the judicious use of extension cords and power strips.

The refreshment station was located to the rear of the meeting room and snack boxes were externally catered and provided after the consultation.

2.2.5 Private Sector Consultation This consultation was held at the Agostini Hall, Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Westmoorings.
Although the HQ of the Chamber, its location in the western peninsula of Trinidad, made it difficult for membership from other Business Chambers across the country to attend.

The conference room features excellent multimedia facilities for making presentations and a rapporteur station was easily accommodated.

The registration desk was located outside the meeting area so there was limited interference from latecomers.
The venue provided a drink refreshment station within the conference room but it did not distract from proceedings.

2.3 Format of the Consultation Unlike the 1st round of consultations which were designed to extract from the public the foundational elements necessary to help build the NSDS, these consultations in essence sought validation on what has been produced so far and guidance on what adjustments may have to be made.
As such, they followed a more traditional format that attempted to foster open, honest dialogue between the public and the Ministry.

Each consultation featured a consultation panel that fielded questions from the participants, led by Minister Tewarie.
Table 2.3.1 lists the names of the panel, presenters and moderators at each of the consultations: 6 | P a g e TABLE 2.3.1 CONSULTATION North Trinidad PANEL Senator Honourable Bhoendradatt Tewarie, Minister of Planning and Sustainable Development Dr. Asad Mohammed, Chairman, National Planning Task Force Mr. Arnim Cozier, Chairman, Development Planning Steering Committee Ms Marie Hinds, Assistant Coordinator, Town and Country Planning Division PRESENTERS MODERATOR/MASTER OF CEREMONIES (PRESENTATION) Ms Jessie-May Ventour Ms Marie Hinds (NSDS and You) Mr. Ancil Kirk, Senior Land Use Planner, Town and Country Planning Division (Addressing the Issues We Face) Mr. Stephen Boodhram Senior Regional Planner Ministry of Local Government (The Integrated Planning Regions) South Trinidad Senator Honourable Bhoendradatt Tewarie Ms Jessie-May Ventour Ms Marie Hinds (NSDS and You) Mr. Arnim Cozier Ms Marie Hinds Ms Zelma Cowie Tobago Private Sector Senator Honourable Bhoendradatt Tewarie Dr. Asad Mohammed Mr. Arnim Cozier Mr. Ancil Kirk Mr. Bobby Andrews, Planning Coordinator, Tobago House of Assembly Senator Honourable Bhoendradatt Tewarie Mr. Arnim Cozier Ms Renelle Sarjeant, Town Planner I, Town and Country Planning Division (Addressing the Issues We Face) Mr. Stephen Boodhram (The Integrated Planning Regions) Mr. Bobby Andrews/ Mr. Ancil Kirk (NSDS, CEDP 2.0 and You) Ms Marie Hinds (NSDS and You) Senator Honourable 7 | P a g e Ms Marie Hinds Mr. Moonilal Lalchan President, Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and
 Commerce Bhoendradatt Tewarie (Trinidad and Tobago: Today and Tommorow) The primary purpose of the presentations were to briefly place different aspects of the NSDS in context for those participants who may not have had an opportunity to fully review the NSDS documentation beforehand.
“NSDS and You” chronicles the myriad of developmental issues facing this country that we tend to compartmentalize and explains why we need a broad based strategy to address these issues holistically.

It then goes on to explain the process followed in creating the NSDS and to briefly describe the three development options proposed and the preferred option that was eventually chosen.
“Addressing the Issues We Face” delves into examples of some of the policies of the NSDS and describes to participants the actions necessary to implement them.

The presentation stresses that the achievement of the policies of the NSDS will take the concerted efforts of all citizens, not just the Government, however the NSDS attempts to clearly set out the ‘rules’ by which this coordination will work in practice.
“The Integrated Planning Regions” speaks to the latter sections of the NSDS which establishes sub- national planning regions of which nine (9) Integrated Planning Regions or IPRs have accordingly been identified.

IPRs entail neither the realignment of existing administrative areas, nor are they intended to create yet another layer of service area boundaries.
Rather, they are proposed as functional units for the purposes of rational planning and area-specific strategy formulation as they have been defined for areas of similar geographical characteristics including landscape character and environmental considerations, as well as socio-economic development objectives and goals.

Finally, at the private sector a presentation was made by Minister Tewarie entitled, “Trinidad and Tobago: Today and Tomorrow”.
It sought to fit the NSDS within the context of all the other parallel initiatives of the Ministry and explain how the outputs of each initiative informed one other.

The presentations were useful in framing the pre-conceived critical issues in each participant’s mind so that they may be constructively discussed during the most appropriate window.
As such, the Q&A feedback sessions that followed each presentation were therefore more focused and this made the capture of information by the rapporteurs easier.

It should be noted that although the basic content of each presentation remained the same throughout the various consultation events, they were all tweaked, depending on the audience, so as to create a better connection between the localised issues they may face and how the NSDS seeks to address these.
Moreover, due to time constraints, the “NSDS and You” presentation was accordingly augmented for the Tobago and Private Sector Consultations to include elements of “Addressing the Issues We Face” and “The Integrated Planning Regions” presentations.

Subsequent to staging of the consultation events, the presentations were made available online at the Ministry’s NSDS Facebook page i.e.

Our T&T… Our Future.


As noted in a section previously, the State/ Quasi-State Consultation was organised a bit differently to the other consultations.

Participants were seated from the opening session on round tables in groups of between six and ten persons.

A printed copy of the core NSDS or at least one of its ancillary appendices was stationed at each table.
Care was exercised not to have persons from the same or a similar 8 | P a g e Ministries/ State Agencies seated together so as to provide as much as possible, a mix of persons with different interests, concerns and experiences.
The groups were requested to choose among themselves, after a short introductory session, a facilitator who would manage the discussions within the group and ensure that all members had sufficient opportunity to speak, and a presenter who was tasked with presenting to the plenary session the group’s position on the issues of concern.

A scribe/ rapporteur was assigned to each group to record the discussions and decisions made at each table.
As far as possible, a member of staff from the Ministry of Planning and Sustainable Development (MPLSD) or a member of the Development Planning Steering Committee who was already familiar with the NSDS was assigned to each table to help explain or elaborate on any facet of the NSDS documentation that was not clearly understood.
After a formal opening session which included remarks from the Permanent Secretary Arlene McComie, Dr. Asad Mohammed and a feature address from Minister Tewarie, participants were shown a brief presentation introducing them to the concept of the Integrated Sustainability Appraisal (ISA); the methodology used to assess the three spatial developmental options devised for the country.
Being a necessarily subjective process, each group was then asked to perform a Mock Integrated Sustainability Appraisal of their own to determine their own scores for each option, and whether the preferred option of Regional Harmonised Development remained the same.

They were also given the opportunity to develop their own option if they were not satisfied with the three options presented.

After deliberations among themselves, every group was then asked to present their results.
The purpose of the exercise was to demonstrate the rigourness of the ISA methodology and to test whether its results were validated among the participants.

After the lunch, the participants were then shown a variation of the “NSDS and You” presentation, followed by a Question and Answer (Q&A) session much in the same vein of the other consultations.
The Q&A session was organised around twelve (12) thematic areas of:  Housing and Urban Design  Economic Issues  Energy Use  Population/ Demographics  Society and Space  Agriculture  Environmental Issues  Disaster/ Risk Reduction  Transport  Utilities and Infrastructure  Regional Guidance for Tobago  Regional Guidance for Trinidad After a brief wrap up session discussing the way forward, the consultation was closed off by Mr. Clyde Watche, Director (Ag.)
of the Town and Country Planning Division.

9 | P a g e 3.0 Report of the Findings 3.1 Overview A total of 330 participants attended the five (5) consultation events, exclusive of staff from the Ministry of Planning and Sustainable Development.

The North Trinidad Consultation had the single largest number of participants, 96, while the Tobago Consultation with 72 was the second largest.
A total of 62 persons attended the South Trinidad Consultation and there were 26 attendees at the private sector consultation.

74 persons participated in the State/ Quasi-State Consultation.

Appendix I provides the names of participants and their affiliations for each Consultation.

A number of reasons/ constraints have been identified for the relatively poor turnout at the consultations.
These include:  "Consultation fatigue" - there is a real sense of cynicism among the general populace regarding the value of consultations and whether the views of the 'man on the street' will really be considered and have an impact on government policy outputs in general.

It is felt that the ‘policy makers’ have already decided what they are going to do and that the ‘consultation’ is essentially a formality or a ‘box to be checked’ before proceeding.
Many prefer not to attend rather than be ‘used’ in such a manner.

 Not enough was done in the publicity campaign to connect the benefits/ importance of a "national strategy" to the individual citizen and his/her day to day life.

 Insufficient lead in time between the onset of the publicity campaign and the first ‘general public’ consultation.

The campaign kicked of Wednesday 17th April 2013 and the first public consultation was held Saturday 4th May, 2013.
A period of roughly two and a half weeks to sensitise the general public.

 Not enough options in terms of available dates, venues and number of consultations held.

This limited the opportunities for someone to attend a consultation.

Encouragingly however, the dampened response to the public consultations was offsetted somewhat by the debate driven online through the NSDS website and the use of social media networks, particularly facebook.
The facebook page generated over 4,000 “Likes” and at its peak some posts reached over 20,000 persons.

Many relevant comments and insights were shared through these media.

3.2 General Feedback on the draft NSDS Across all the public consultations, the following themes were consistently brought to the attention of the Consultation Panel: 1.

Continuity of the NSDS across Political administrations.
The NSDS is all well and good and a step in the right direction but so too was Vision 2020 from the former administration.

What guarantees are there that this strategy will be followed through and implemented if there is a change in Government at the next General Elections?

The vision is longterm i.e.

twenty (20) years, but political administrations tend to be myopic in nature as they plan with five (5) year horizons.
This often unacknowledged ‘reality’ feeds into 10 | P a g e the scepticism of the general public and it is therefore more difficult to secure ‘buy in’ into the strategy.
Panel Response: It is true that the continued execution of the NSDS cannot be guaranteed but a number of compelling arguments were offered to explain how the NSDS will maintain its relevance in the long-term and endure when other comparable initiatives have not:  Unlike the Vision 2020 which considered projects and development of the country across sectors, the NSDS is rooted in a geo spatial framework.
Where you locate a concept or project and the physical requirements of such is contemplated from the outset and therefore grounds it to reality early in the process in terms of feasibility and implementation.

 There is already existing evidence that the NSDS can bridge political administrations.

The fourteen (14) Spatial Development Plans for each Municipal Corporation were completed in 2010 under a PNM Administration and were championed by the former Minister of Local Government, Mrs. Hazel Manning.
The incoming People’s Partnership Administration saw the value in these plans, and the new Cabinet proceeded to approve them for adoption by the Municipal Corporation Councils in 2011.

These plans formed a critical part of the evidence base that led to the development of the NSDS.

 Under the provisions of the proposed Planning and Facilitation of Development (PAFD) Bill, the NSDS has to be brought for statutory adoption by Parliament.
This will give it credence that cannot be easily ignored by incoming political administrations.

It is a living document, that must be reviewed regularly and new information incorporated at the very minimum; every two years.

This will provide flexibility going forward for new political administrations that may be operating under different socio-economic circumstances, to adapt the NSDS as necessary.

2.

Involving people in planning.


How does the NSDS ensure that the “man on the street, or in the rumshop” has a say in the development of his country?

Conversations and serious debate on the future development of this country take place every day by a large cross section of the society in informal settings such as ‘bars’ and ‘barbershops’.

How do we access and consider the views, opinions and suggestions of persons who may not necessarily be drawn to the more formal consultation events?
Panel Response: Public Consultation has been a hallmark of the NSDS process and has featured in every aspect of its formulation thus far.

In fact the Development Planning Steering Committee (DPSC), the Cabinet appointed committee mandated to oversee the formulation of the NSDS features representatives from the private and civic sectors of society working alongside State technocrats.
Moreover, the NSDS is committed to promoting and working within a new planning hierarchy which endorses a ‘bottom-up’ approach.

In this paradigm therefore, the national level is restricted to providing broad strategic ‘best practice’ guidance to Municipal Corporations and coordinating major projects of national importance.
It is at the regional and community levels therefore that the majority of decisions will be made on how land is to be used, based on policies, standards and codes devised at these localised levels as well.

This therefore gives the ‘man on the street’ far more influence in determining how his/her community develops in a far more structured manner, free from the vagaries of political patronage.
Additionally, the 11 | P a g e Municipal Corporations are far better placed to utilise innovative and specialised methods of outreach to engage the views of persons, that will work best in the communities under their purview.

Policy 6 of the NSDS, Involving People in Planning, elaborates more on how these ideas can work in practice and suggests implementation through the adoption of Community Involvement Protocols by each Municipal Corporation to guide such.

3.
3.

Protection and Conservation of our non-renewable natural resources/ Lack of Enforcement in general.

It is easy to designate areas to be conserved or protected on paper but how will this translate into active policies and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that this actually occurs.

Has a bio data baseline even been conducted so we have an accurate idea of what has been lost already and what remains?
Activities such as squatting and illegal quarrying continue unabated and nothing seems to be done about it.

Lack of enforcement in general will undo the intent of any plan and will reduce the NSDS to an exercise in futility.

Panel Response: Environmental issues have been taken into account through the Integrated Sustainable Appraisal (ISA) which is the underpinning methodology for the development of the NSDS.
One specific policy mechanism that can be tied into the NSDS and is currently being pursued is the PROECOSERV project; an initiative of the Ministry of Finance and UWI.

This involves valuing all ecosystem services provided by the environment in real financial terms so as to better inform decision making regarding the ‘real’ cost of development for any given project/ proposal.
The outputs of this project will be incorporated into the NSDS and also in the review of the Regional plans where it will serve as the evidence base for area-wide EIAs.

The Panel agreed completely with the sentiment that the NSDS will be useless unless enforcement is radically improved.

It was further noted that in the short term:  Capacity at the Town and Country Planning has been exponentially increased with the recruitment of new enforcement officers at various levels.
Before this intervention, the unit was in essence ‘crippled’ due to the lack of staff.

It will soon be upgraded with the modern equipment and tools required, utilizing funds from the next budgetary allocation.

In the medium to long-term the following measures will be implemented:  Automation of approval processes in the Construction Industry and better co-ordination among regulatory agencies in a ‘one-stop shop’ will unclog the system and reduce the time it takes to process applications considerably.
A more streamlined, efficient system allows for the regulatory agencies to divert more resources toward the critical exercise of monitoring the developments that have been approved and ensuring that there is compliance.

 Under the PAFD legislation, significant planning powers will be devolved to the Municipal Corporations.

This means that capacity at each Corporation will have to be increased so that these new responsibilities can be effectively administered.
The Building and Planning Inspectorate at each Municipal Corporation will therefore be appropriately augmented.

Enforcement at the regional level will always be more effective than at a centralised, national level because it is closer to the ground level.

 Upon passage of the PAFD Bill, the State will also be granted more ‘teeth’ in ensuring conformity and compliance.
Aside from stiffer fines and penalties, existing loopholes will 12 | P a g e be closed so that there is less leeway for an offender to delay and protract the process unreasonably.

4.

Policies that promote the inclusion of the differently abled in society and those with special needs.

This is a constituency within society that has been historically neglected and generally excluded from the national conversation.
The inhospitality of the built environment currently is one way in particular that this neglect has manifested and that the NSDS should specifically seek to address.

Too many of our public spaces are virtually inaccessible to disadvantaged citizens and this is both unfair and unjust.

Other neglected sub groups in our society include the elderly and the displaced (homeless & mentally ill).

There is a distinct lack of social facilities within our communities to cater to their unique needs.
Panel Response: The panel agreed wholeheartedly with these sentiments.

In fact, many of these attendant issues are captured under the specific NSDS objective of "building places for people".

The following policies flow from this objective and chart a way forward on how it can be achieved:  Policy 4 - Designing and creating places for people Introduces the concept of 'design statements'.
Municipal Planning Authorities have to ensure that appropriate design policies, standards, codes and guidance are set out clearly in the SDPs and related documents, and are given due weight when proposals for change and development are being considered.

Thus when applicants submit proposals, they are required to submit 'design statements' explaining how principles of good design have been taking into account in formulating their application proposal.

Accessibility is a key consideration in this regard.
 Policy 5 - Planning for Healthy Communities Healthy communities are communities where people come together to make their community better for everyone through collaboration, community ownership, inclusive approaches and long term, positive commitment.

Among other criteria, a healthy community will adjust the physical environment for inclusiveness and accessibility and ensure access to key health and supportive services.
Implementation will depend on an improved, more efficient development process, better coordination among Governmental agencies and key stakeholders and improved community outreach.

 Policy 6 - Involving people in planning As explained before, this policy sets parameters for the introduction of Community Involvement Protocols to be adopted by each Municipal Corporation.
Other relevant NSDS policies that will foster inclusion and participation, and maximise opportunities for all citizens to be productive members of society are Policy 21 : Prioritising Sustainable Transport and Policy 22: Making the most of ICT.

5.

Vision needs to be inspirational for there to be ‘buy in’ into the NSDS.
The Vision was criticised by some as idealistic, generic or too broad in its approach to plan making; impractical in its long term projections of development; unimaginative; and inadequate in its solutions.

Thus, these shared concerns indicated the need for a Vision Statement that was comprehensive yet concise and would, in its articulation, elicit a positive and awe-inspiring response.
13 | P a g e Panel Response: The panel accepted that the vision could be construed as ‘idealistic’, however contended that this was intentionally so as according to the NSDS (page 17), “… the bar needs to be set high and the targets, challenging and stretching.” In that way, even if not all the improvements aspired to can be achieved by 2033, the chances of achieving real and sustainable changes would be maximised.
They further noted that the vision presented was in itself shaped considerably by views coming out of the 1st round of public consultations.
The following is a cross-section of some of the comments submitted by email and through facebook: “Reducing our carbon emissions and making our country 'green' , environmentally friendly by instituting a comprehensive program on recycling and investing in renewable energies even though fossils fuel is abundant , and a diligent approach in reintroducing agriculture to feed our nation and reduce our food import bill.” – Anthony D Gosine “I wish for a balanced consideration of green spaces and vegetation for children to play, socialise and interact with the environment; of infrastructure i.e.
important buildings, highways and edifices that also take a green growth disposition; as well as land in sufficient supply for food and farmers' needs that directly relates to nutritional needs.” – Keston ‘Action Man’ Perry “In general what is provided (by the NSDS) is generic ideas of what should be included – mostly definitions that might come from textbooks, with little grounding in reality and the existing situation.

For example what is meant by ‘healthy communities’ or what is ‘good’ urban design?
Additionally, the NSDS does not define clear mechanisms for participation of civil society.” – The Trust for Sustainable Livelihoods (SusTrust Board) “More parks, community centres and libraries are needed.

There are none of these three in operation in the town of Marabella.” – Sasha Niala “Every home would have a meter for water just like electricity.
Consumers would be given the power to actively monitor their usage of current and water online and can make the changes they need to make in order to decrease utility expenses as well as reduce wastage.” - Jonathan Christopher Francis “Encourage carpooling through either community based or company based carpooling incentives, especially for the San'do - POS route.

This can help alleviate some of the traffic woes as well as reduce greenhouse gas emission.
Large companies, including government ministries can provide carpooling plans for their employees.

This can help in networking and reduce the amount of money spent on fuel and car repairs.

We need to work together to move forward.” – Karyce Phillips “Include a Heritage management policy.

Law and Programme action.
Needed is a statement to conserve, manage and restore National and Local Government Heritage site land and marine and linked to National and Local Government land use plans 1) Use Barbados model see http://www.townplanning.gov.bb/content.aspx?c=54 2) Use Australia heritage management model http://www.environment.gov.au/heritage/ 3) Include the National Trust Act” – Mr. Jalaludin Khan 14 | P a g e 3.3 Summary Transcripts of the Public Consultations PROGRAM / MEETING NAME: DATE: NSDS PUBLIC CONSULTATION: NORTH TRINIDAD SATURDAY MAY 4TH, 2013 VENUE: LRC, UWI RAPPARTEURS: PETAL HOWELL ANTHONY BRIDGEWATER ISSUES/ QUESTIONS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Presentation Ms Marie Hinds: “NSDS and You” First Feedback Session “Lessons learnt” were not part of the document.
Should feature a section that documents the learnt from previous plans’ lessons successes and failures.

The overly detailed, almost intimidating body of work that was the NPDP has been reconsidered so that the content of the NSDS is divided into more digestible, smaller bits.

Entirely new approach into account what worked and what didn’t.

By has taken introducing a three tier framework, it makes planning issues easier to address and brings local solutions closer to the people.
Phase I of the NSDS process required a Situational Analysis to be conducted and this included a review of the NPDP.

Lessons learnt have therefore been included in the final draft of the NSDS.

What consideration has been given to the use of vertical space especially since statements have been made about space issues (finite nature of developable land resources)?

Increasing urban densities and creating more compact urban areas is built into the NSDS to reduce the urban footprint.
Also built in is the thrust to improve energy efficiency in development.

The current density policy with reference to residential development has been revised by the Town and Country Planning Division.

How does this plan fit into current overarching policies/ and current legislation?

Does it take into account things that went before such as Vision 20/20?

Why not just work on the existing legislation and augment it?
The NSDS is taking into account all that has gone before, including the NPDP and the National policy documents.

It is a synergy of and builds on what has been done before- considering successes and failures.

The current Town and Country Planning Act Chap: 35:01 was enacted in 1969 but is based on 1947 British Legislation.

It is imperative that it be revised.

New legislation i.e.


the Planning and Facilitation of Development Bill has been confirmed and will be debated in Parliament in the last quarter of 2013.

What plans are being put forward for East Trinidad in the option 3 Harmonized Regional Development?

The east of Trinidad has been considered but the approach to development here will be different.

The stimulation of economic activity of this part of the country is an ongoing process; port facilities, industry, tourism all are part of the considerations.
Urban Specific policies/ proposals for this region will have to developed at the Municipal Corporation level in the updated regional plans, guided by the strategic direction provided in the NSDS.

15 | P a g e ISSUES/ QUESTIONS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS development in these areas has to be appropriate given the nuances of the area.

It must be noted that specific proposals for the area do not input into this level.
The NSDS phase looks at general policy discussions.

Presentation Mr. Ancil Kirk: “Addressing the Issues We Face” Second Feedback Session Core themes- there has been discussion on sustainable infrastructure; there has been no discussion/ discourse on social infrastructure.

--- ‘social The term ‘sustainable infrastructure’ by definition is supposed instance, to encompass policies 1 – 11 all consider social infrastructure requirements of the populace e.g.
Policy 5 – Planning for healthy communities and Policy 9 – Priorities for culture, sport and recreation.

infrastructure’ needs.

For Under the theme of Leaving No One Behind, what has been said about creating Barrier Free urban environments?

Ecosystems approach as a means of natural resource management- this should be incorporated into the NSDS.

The point is taken on the need for the NSDS to help address the needs of the differently abled as well as at risk communities.
As it stands, the current Leaving ‘No One Behind’ Disabled Regions Policy is more focused on the latter i.e.

neglected areas needing treatment in of themselves rather than catering to specific segments of society (the differently abled).The NSDS must more explicitly recognize the fact that the special requirements of differently abled communities have a significant impact on urban design considerations.
Environmental issues have been considered through the early recognition of the PROECOSERV project; an initiative of the Ministry of Finance and UWI that was running concurrently.

There is representation from the chair of the PROECOSERV committee on the Development Planning Steering Committee (The Cabinet appointed committee established to manage the NSDS Process).
The outputs of this project will be incorporated into the NSDS and also in the review of the Regional plans where it will serve as the evidence base for area-wide EIAs.

This issue is captured under the specific NSDS objective of "building places for people" and the relevant policies that flow from this objective.

Environmental issues have been taken into account in the ISA, which is the underpinning methodology for the development of the NSDS.
PROECOSERV outputs to be incorporated into the NSDS and future planning initiatives where relevant.

A clear MOU with EMA has to be established upon the passage of the PAFD Bill to ensure proper coordination between regulatory agencies.

16 | P a g e ISSUES/ QUESTIONS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES The concern has been raised as to whether implementation of the NSDS will be under threat with changes in administration.
Continuity of the planning process has been infused with this; hence the attempt at generating buy in; but also the recognition that strategies such as this are overarching regardless of administrative change.

For example, the backbone element of the NSDS has been the assumption of the 14 municipal plans, which were actually created under the previous administration.

This is what has been happening – fusion of what already exists across different political administrations.
TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS The NSDS has to be brought for statutory adoption by Parliament.

Presentation Mr. Stephen Boodhram: “The Integrated Planning Regions” Third Feedback Session Was a Bio-capacity baseline established for these regions?

Ecosystems considerations?

Linkage made with ecosystem services (PROECOSERV), use of resources and how these things must be considered when increasing densities and developing infrastructure.
No specific formula was put into establishing the Bio-capacity and ecological footprint, as this approach will obviously factor into a more specific level of planning (regional).

PROECOSERV outputs to be incorporated into the NSDS and future planning initiatives where relevant.

What considerations have been given to the indigenous communities?
Part of the NSDS is to cover protection and maintenance of areas of cultural and historical significance/ heritage but as per the matter of rights of indigenous communities, this is not the mandate of this area of policy creation.

Municipal authorities have the capacity to plan specifically for the areas to which they correspond (this can take into account indigenous communities for example).

Urban design- how is this going to play into the achievement of Sustainable planning/ development?
Aesthetic value of built environment and good quality urban design is the emphasis.

Enforcement will play a significant role in determining how spaces are developed and harmonized.

What mechanisms have been devised to disseminate baseline standards and building codes, practice of professionals in the construction industry Establishment of Cabinet appointed committee to work on enforcing building codes and fine-tuning them.
Policy 4: Designing and creating places for people speaks directly to the concept of ‘urban design’ and a methodology for its review/approval of planning applications.

incorporation the in requirements Automatic Bond for certain classes of development and enhanced enforcement powers have been written into the mechanisms of the new legislation to ensure that issues resulting from contentious developments can be corrected.
With the regular update of the NSDS as prescribed by the new legislation, planning issues caused can be corrected 17 | P a g e ISSUES/ QUESTIONS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES Any Other Questions?

Extended Q&A Session Integrated coastal zone- this should not be under the mandate of any one or any group of regional authorities.

This needs to be handled by the state and written into legislation.

ICZM Committee already established to deal with coastal management.
The Squatting issue needs to be appropriately addressed in the NSDS as the serious issue it is.

--- TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS through a reevaluation.

Building codes/ fine tuning of these is taking place.

When readied, they will be incorporated into the new planning system at the appropriate level of implementation i.e.

the Municipal Corporation level.

ICZM committee mandated to formulate a comprehensive, national ICZM Policy.
This will inform the legislative and institutional arrangements for coastal zone management that need to be put in place and the NSDS will be updated as necessary when this occurs.

Please refer to Policy 7: Meeting Housing Needs and Policy 8: Planning to improve conditions for squatters.

Under the umbrella of climate change, there must be defined approach to how we can marry urban development and agriculture; food security issues must be part of foundation for any spatial strategy for development.
Analysis has been taken into the impact of climate change and the mitigation of such impacts on all aspects of the plan.

Analysis of agricultural lands and ensuring their protection and their levels of productivity.

Please refer to the objective “Achieving food security” and its specific policy directive i.e.

Policy 12: Planning for agriculture and fisheries.

More emphasis should be given to community involvement and what form will it take.

Caution given to the emphasis on tourism development.
Linkages should be made to heritage conservation management and the capacity building of the National Trust is vital in that regard.

--- --- Please refer to Policy 6: Involving People in Planning.

Please refer to Policy 10: Planning positively for the historic environment.

Local government reform and whether this has been incorporated into the plan and the development of the Integrated Planning Regions (IPRs).
Incorporation of local government (LG) reform is part of planning considerations due to constant interaction all decisions made with this interaction as the backbone- LG reform and the authority of The Municipal Corporation Act (1990) has to be appropriately amended to take into account the implications of the proposed Planning and Facilitation of Development (PAFD) Bill.
18 | P a g e ISSUES/ QUESTIONS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS LG in planning is factored in by way of the devolution of planning to the LG.

Integration within Ministries so that policies such as these can be streamlined and disseminated (for example through education, specifically Ministry of Education).

Public education and awareness has been pushed as part of information dissemination, but the matter of this being written into curriculum is another matter.
It is intended that upon Statutory adoption, a comprehensive programme of dissemination of the NSDS will be embarked upon through all schools, Ministries, State Agencies etc.

Justification for how they came up with the integrated planning regions- why that specific number and what criteria was used in determining them?

IPRs are not set in stone- suggestions on how this needs to be tweaked should be brought forward.
IPRs can be useful in that they offer a framework that allows for neighbouring Municipal Corporations to partner and collaborate with one another based on their shared similarities/ interests.

including character landscape [The IPRs have been defined for areas of similar geographical characteristics and environmental considerations, as well as socio-economic development objectives and goals.
They have additionally been informed by an awareness of matters that will require cooperation between neighbouring administrative areas.

The identification of an IPR does not suggest that the constituent areas are perfectly homogenous.

In some instances, it may be considered similar characteristics, there are distinct areas within the IPR by virtue of form and function or infrastructural challenges.
In such cases, the IPR may be separated in Sub-Regions, as in the case of both the North Coast IPR and Port of Spain and the Capital Region IPR.]
– Extracted from the NSDS IPR has generally that whilst an 19 | P a g e PROGRAM / MEETING NAME: DATE: VENUE: RAPPARTEURS: NSDS PUBLIC CONSULTATION: SOUTH TRINIDAD 11/05/2013 NAPARIMA BOWL, SAN FERNANDO SARAH MAHADEO ANTHONY BRIDGEWATER JASSODRA RAMPERSAD ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Presentation Ms Marie Hinds: “NSDS and You” First Feedback Session In the Situational Analysis prior to the Harmonisation of the fourteen (14) Municipal Plans, how was the information gathered?
Was just the Central Statistical Office’s data used?

How does the NSDS propose to capture the fluidity of changing circumstances?

Industrialisation: How do we plan based on the fact that we are an energy based economy and there are certain conflicts that come with industrial development?

The NSDS has to be brought for statutory adoption by Parliament.

It is a living document, that must be reviewed incorporated at the very regularly and new minimum; every two years.
information The NSDS clearly delineates the new planning hierarchy proposed and explains the iterative nature of the system and how each level impacts and depends upon each other.

Refer to Pgs.

9 – 12 of the Core Document.

Ms Hinds indicated that not just CSO data was used but rather relevant information was taken from all sectors/ministries.
With respect to the fluidity of the information regarding changing circumstances, she noted that the NSDS is to be reviewed every 2 years according to the proposed Planning and Facilitation of Development (PAFD) Bill.

The strategic goals and objectives are clear but broad based and are therefore flexible.

The Minister indicated that these issues have to be addressed by a land use policy informed by the regional and local area planning levels.
Developers must be made to be more conscious of the impacts of their proposals on the surrounding communities.

Planning activities will be required to be involved in ‘pre- consultation with communities’.

While the State is committed to diversify the economy away from oil and gas, that sector’s contribution to national development is still important.

There will be continuing tensions, which cannot be avoided; however, community involvement will play a key part in how developments go forward.
Three things are critical to assess- how does the development affect the environment and the ecosystem goods and services provided there?

How much economic benefit will be derived to balance the loss of ecosystem goods and services?

And how would the development affect the communities in which it is 20 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS proposed with respect to the quality of life already experienced there?
Decisions will be made collectively; the process of democracy will be made more sophisticated as we continue to mature as a society.

Presentation Ms Renelle Sarjeant: “Addressing the Issues We Face” Second Feedback Session It was suggested that local councillors be used to connect with people in the local community re plans and policies being developed.
The Minister gave examples of Arima and St Helena where the local representatives were present at the public consultations for the Local Area Plan and where the consultation events were well attended.

Local Government and Community interests are included in Consultations re the local plan making process.

Please refer to Policy 6: Involving People in Planning.

The NSDS seems like a lot of empty rhetoric as in reality, large sections of the society are left out of the decision making process.
“People at the centre of planning”, but how do we get there?

The panel welcomed suggestions on how to encourage more people to get involved in planning.

Please refer to Policy 6: Involving People in Planning.

With respect to stakeholder involvement how are the views of the ‘man on the street’ reflected in the document?

We have consultations everyday as consultations are being held informally in every bar in Trinidad!

The intention of these public consultations is precisely to source these views.
Additionally people have the option and have chosen to use the option of social media to make comments and voice concerns.

The process is on-going.

Clarification on a statistic in the presentation requested.

Is it 600,000 cars or 600,000 vehicles?

Ms Hinds clarified that it is 600,000 vehicles.

What are the municipal plans?

Ms Hinds clarified that the Municipal plans refer to the Spatial Development Strategies prepared for all fourteen (14) Municipal Corporations in Trinidad in 2010.
--- --- --- 21 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Presentation Mr. Stephen Boodhram: “The Integrated Planning Regions” Third Feedback Session A participant suggested that more community level projects and initiatives are required to get people involved in planning.

He gave the example of the “Bail Boys” project set up by the president of T&T, who was then Justice Carmona as one such success.

into the NSDS.
into the NSDS.

Follow up comment on the Question on the status of the San Fernando Waterfront plan and how it lack of youth fits involvement; this should have been a situation where school children could have been present at the consultation.

Minister indicated that this was exactly what they were trying to accomplish with the new planning hierarchy to be established.
This framework with local area plans at the base will help to build consensus within the community so that the chances of successful implementation of plans are greatly increased.

“Bail Boys” therefore become the norm rather than the exception within this new framework.
San Fernando Waterfront question was not addressed by the panel however Ms Hinds addressed the issue of the younger voices not being represented at the consultation, stating that there was the intent to bring 5th and 6th form students to the consultations however, being exam time, students were not available.
She continued thereafter stating that the “Planning team” was full of young Planners who are very well equipped to carry the planning process further; expressing confidence in the ‘voice of the youth’ being represented in that respect.

The NSDS clearly delineates the new planning hierarchy proposed in Pgs.

9 – 12 of the Core Document.


It is intended that upon Statutory adoption, a comprehensive programme of dissemination of the NSDS will be embarked upon through all schools, Ministries, State Agencies etc.

A comment was made that the Ministry of Energy should relocate its main offices to San Fernando/ the South Region in general.

Ms Jessie-May Ventour responded stating that the MEEA is currently in the process of improving its offices in the Maska Building in La Romain.
They do have a presence in south and they are trying to increase that presence.

--- Mr. Ramnarine, a retired Ministry of Works officer, asked where are all the many strategic plans that were done before and never implemented for e.g.

the San Juan/ Laventille Spatial Development Plan?

Why do we have to go over this process again?

Plans are being made but no action is being taken.

Also, there were no members or technical officers from the San Fernando City Corporation present at the consultation.
This concerned The Minister stated that it was not fair to blame the Ministry or present government for things that were not done.

We are trying to build consensus which will give the plans a better chance of achieving their objectives.

These include community as well as governmental/ State Agency consultations.

We are looking to build consensus to get integrated planning and execution.

Monitoring, evaluation and execution are better today than 5 years ago.

The future is created in the present.


If we plan, though there may be Please refer to the NSDS Core Document, Chapter 7: Implementation, Monitoring and Review 22 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS him since these are the people who are supposed to ‘run with this plan’.

obstacles, we will be better prepared to deal with them effectively.
In light of this he pledged his assistance in whatever capacity to do work ‘pro bono’ to see the NSDS come to fruition.

He wished to share his years of experience and training with ‘those young people’ especially now that San Fernando he claims, is in a state of “total decay” and for this he blames the public servants especially those at the City Corp. identifies for this is that the TCPD Mr Cozier agreed that historically, there has been a disconnect between plan preparation and plan implementation.
One of the reasons he is not an implementing agency although it has responsibility to prepare these plans.

Other agencies are responsible for implementation.

As alluded by the Minister however, under the PAFD Bill, with the creation the implementation agency will also be the planning agency.

There should then be a greater level of implementation of plans with community involvement whereby these plans would be publicly available and persons can measure the pace of development.
Planning Authorities, the Municipal of In response to the observation regarding the lack of MC representatives present at the consultation, Minister Tewarie stated that the Municipal Corporations were present at the NSDS workshop involving State Entities.

Also, many of the functions of the TCPD will be devolved to the Municipal Corporations and there have been much collaboration in this regard.
Thus members of the City Corporation may not have felt obligated to attend this particular consultation unless they were personally motivated.

A male participant expressed satisfaction at the hosting of the consultation; he felt that it was well advertised and thought that maybe only those who really cared about development attended.

He expressed some concerns with the map showing the IPRs.
He indicated that in the zones identified as the ‘landscape management zones’ did not include more of the northern range as protected areas.

In this light he identified the large extent of the growth pole in the northern range to be ‘quite provocative’.

He is advising very strongly that the leading environmental groups comment on these landscape management zones particularly with respect to the northern range area.
Also he understood that T&T has over 400 species of birds and he felt it wise that there is be a “solid appreciation of the ecology on the Venezuelan side, so as to have a Ms Hinds agreed that what takes place at the consultations should be made public.

She drew reference to the previous consultation exercises from which the document produced were emailed to all participants as well as placed on the Ministry’s Website and persons could also request hard copies.
She alluded that Minister Tewarie has indicated that when the NSDS goes to Parliament along with the PAFD Bill; a consultation document containing all of the suggestions and comments coming out of the consultation process will be accompanying these items and it will be made very clear as to how these comments served to further inform the final NSDS.
She alluded also to the on-going Facebook conversation and added that further contributions can occur via the social media Please refer to the NSDS Core Document, Chapter 6: Regional Planning Guidance 23 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS better appreciation of ecological issues on the south western peninsula.” He expressed concern that the maps have not identified any protected areas in the South west peninsula he specifically mentions the Oropouche Lagoon in this regard.
His other question dealt with the issue of how to involve the people more.

He stated that there is no supplement that comes out in the press post consultations which indicates the concerns expressed and the ideas that emanate by the people present at these consultations.

He believes that it is part of the democratic process that the views of the people who participate in public consultations are expressed publicly.
He added that when people’s comments are ‘misinterpreted’ into ‘technical jargon’, inaccessible to the layman, people feel as if there is no meaningful engagement.

forum.

involved Mr Cozier addressed the participant’s comments regarding the landscape zones; he reiterated that the drawings in the NSDS were really schematic in nature.

As such, subsequent plans i.e.

the Regional Plans etc.

will pay more particular attention to the specific ‘zoning’ of different areas.
He also pointed out the DPSC interests of many consists of members representing the environmental entities including the EMA and persons from the University who were research (PROECOSERV).

He added that this was so much the case that many persons who were pro-development felt that the NSDS addressed too many areas under the ambit of environmental preservation and conservation.
Mr. Cozier also spoke to the growth pole identified in the Northern Range stating that there were different types of growth and that not all growth is accompanied by massive industrial expansion.

There could be limited growth which might be suitable for a small community but sustainable would employment opportunities etc.
Such growth would be “relevant and suitable to the size of the community.” that community providing in environmental impact on With respect to the point made regarding the South West peninsula, and of noting the impact of the Venezuelan ecology in this area, Mr Cozier and the Minister both felt that it was a very valid point.
He indicated that he was well aware of the ecology issues of the south west and of other issues relating to the area such as coastal erosion which needs to factor into its development and pointed out that it was very important that these issues are highlighted appropriately in the NSDS.
Mr. Kendal Fontenelle, Communications Director, MPLSD further clarified the Growth Pole issue in the Northern Range indicating that although it may appear that there is encroachment into the Northern Range, the growth pole focus is really on five fishing communities located therein i.e.

Toco, Matelot, Las Cuevas, 24 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Blanchisseuse and Maracas.
Minister Tewarie added that other developments in the areas identified above would be focused on tourism in an environmental context and on agriculture and food production to sustain the tourism development.

There are also ambitions of Marina development which will create its own employment opportunities.
Minister Tewarie stated that it was his understanding that the TCPD is doing much better with respect to the time taken to process applications and he added that he would follow up on her particular matter.

Regarding her first comment, Minister Tewarie noted that they were good ideas and highlighted the importance of the community and the regional plans.

He added that throughout our development history we separate the jobs from the places where we live.
Community development needs to encompass a more diverse range of land use activities that would make these communities more sustainable within a decentralized system.

This is in addition to tapping an economic base for these communities such as tourism, culture etc.

Ms Khadoo at this point issued an open invitation to the Minister to visit the National Centre for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
This institution can offer invaluable assistance to the State to bring the children with special needs to the forefront of the development process.

Ms Sita Khadoo stated that in the planning of communities, more consideration should be given to the growing elderly population as well as for our special needs children.
She noted that in San Fernando there is just one (1) centre for persons with disabilities that caters for over 350 students who come from disparate places such as Cedros, Port of Spain, Moruga and Mayaro.

Consideration should be given to set up small schools in each constituency to cater to special needs children closer to their homes.

There are no facilities for the elderly in the area of recreation.
She suggested that each community should have ‘daycare’ centres for the elderly where they can spend the day and recreate.

Places where their caregivers, usually relatives, can drop them off in a safe environment and pick them up at the end of the workday.
In this way, persons can avoid sending their old dependent to homes for the aged which she described as a ‘warehouse for death.” Ms Khadoo had a second comment regarding the length of time it takes to facilitate a change of use for a piece of agricultural land (that has been lying idle for over 30 years) into residential subdivisions.

Her application was originally submitted in 2009 and it took her six months to get a response from TCPD.
It then took her 4 years to get an interview with the ATPP to review her refusal and it has been 8 months since she had that interview, with no response.

She felt this timeframe was unacceptable.

This issue is captured under the specific NSDS objective of "building places for people" and the relevant policies that flow from this objective.

25 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Any Other Questions?
Extended Q&A Session A male community member started by paraphrasing Lloyd Best’s “government govern for government “ concluding that therefore “planners will plan for planners”.

He indicated that he represented the constituency of the ‘rum shop’.

He added that the pervading view of development control is that “you can’t get anything done unless you pass something.” He also stated that the people wanted to see ZONING, drawing reference to urban development always trumping agriculture.
He wanted more people involvement in planning including transport planning.

cause conflict between Municipal Corporations Finally, he expressed concerns over the IPR for the south west, citing difference in cultures and two different sorts of economic base that jointly may administering this area.

He stated that perhaps another criteria needs to be introduced, that of River basin management, to help determine administrative boundaries e.g.
considering the Oropouche Lagoon river system which extended as far east as Princes Town.

Minister Tewarie began his response by stating the NSDS will outline the general land development for the areas identified but at the Municipal Corporations Planning Authority level there will be stronger insistence on how that land will be used.

There will be greater public participation types of developments that will be created.
in determining the The boundaries for the SW Peninsula IPR have not been revised however if in the review of the Pt.

Fortin and Siparia Spatial Development Plans, a case is made for a realignment of its boundaries, this will certainly be considered in the next review of the NSDS.
Regarding the corruption issue, he stated that the reforms implemented at the TCPD could not have been implemented and the backlog of applications could not have been addressed if there were not significant changes made at TCPD and if there were not honest officers in the leadership of the TCPD.

On enforcement, he added that the existing law is structured in such a way that there must be intervention from Local Government so this needs to be coordinated on even the most vocal of complaints.
Additionally, he stated that he does not have jurisdiction for quarries, of which that are many illegal such operations in existence.

The new PAFD Bill seeks to comprehensively address these types issues.
The Minister then made reference to the former Mayor of Bogota, Enrique Peňalosa, who stated that “a developed country is not one in which the poor own cars but one in which the rich uses public transportation.” This statement globally revised the development discourse in a manner that Minister Tewarie felt was very relevant to Trinidad and Tobago.
He reiterated that the country is 2000m2 and if its development is not managed properly it can be easily ruined especially in the context of a SIDS where we are also faced with peculiar challenges and vulnerabilities.
“There needs to be an understanding that we must conserve what we can but at the same we must also facilitate economic growth and development and the people who are involved with economic growth and development must also understand that they can contribute to 26 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS sustainable development.” He ended on the note that there needs to be collaborative thinking to build the sustainable strategies for the sustainable development of communities.
Mr. Cozier also responded to the participant’s comments by stating that zoning is not really used here in T&T.

He explained that the concept of zoning is American while our system of planning was fashioned after the British System.

Zones are defined by a legal process, however our plans are designed to be more flexible.

We don’t want to have to go to parliament every time we need to change something.

The new legislation is meant to introduce a more flexible process.
It will also improve our enforcement system.

Mr. Cozier further noted that the Siparia Regional plan does in fact recognize the differences in the SW Peninsula that the participant spoke of.

That plan, like the others, will have to be reviewed in light of the NSDS.

Ms Hinds welcomed these ideas and stated that they will be taken under consideration; particularly the suggestion of ensuring the connection of the NSDS to the development of the human capital.
--- Ms Hinds stated that these ideas are welcome and the review and inclusion of whatever strategic plan is produced by the disabled sector will be very useful.

This issue is captured under the specific NSDS objective of "building places for people" and the relevant policies that flow from this objective.
Mr. Cozier noted that the NSDS attempted to address these types of issues via its “Creating Spaces for People and Healthy 27 | P a g e A Councillor from the Penal/Debe Municipal Corporation asked how the NSDS addresses T&T’s competitiveness in the global environment.

Additionally, he recommended an airstrip or an airfield to be developed for the southern area.
He also wanted to know how the NSDS addresses Human development in the context of change and required more details on the policies for the growth poles, particularly for the southern area and the development of the human capital within that region specifically.

Female participant who was wheelchair bound, made the case for the inclusion of the disabled (estimated to be 10-15% of the total population) into the planning framework.
She was adamant that “Unless it is expressly stated, disability is often ignored.” Her major point was that of inclusion of the voice of the disabled community early in the planning process, noting that the disabled were often an ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS afterthought after plans were already created.
Inclusion of the disabled would entail a greater awareness and sensitization drive on the NSDS process and how the strategies it contained would translate to the individual.

Furthermore, the disabled sector has created its own stimulus plan for the disabled community and is willing to present this document to the MPSD for review and inclusion into the NSDS.

Communities” Objective and related policies.

Urban Design also has a role to play via the Planning Authorities.
Facilities will be provided at the Local Area Plan level.

The Minister of Public Administration and Member of Parliament for San Fernando East, the Honourable Carolyn Seepersad Bachan, made the following comments: Minister Tewarie thanked the Honourable Minister for her comments.

--- 1.

The event was well advertised but we need to look at the marketing i.e.

making people see that this plan impacts them and that they do have a contribution to make.

2.
2.

She wants to see what the impact will be on crime, employment, the environment etc.

3.

She felt that Sustainability objectives and the Appraisal Method used are very relevant.

She expressed the hope that the regional corporations use it to evaluate their projects in the future.

4.

She stressed the importance of an Integrated Service Delivery via e-government for government services in achieving the objectives of the NSDS.
Other general comments/criticisms/suggestions expressed: Chaguanus market is sited in the wrong location.

It should be south of the Caparo River Time to be proactive and not reactive.

TCPD is its own enemy.

Squatting is a major problem.

--- --- --- --- Issue to be addressed in the review of the Chaguanas Spatial Development Plan --- --- Please refer to Policy 7: Meeting Housing Needs and Policy 8: Planning to improve conditions for squatters.
28 | P a g e ISSUES/COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Lack of planning responsible for the poor turnout.

Could we have not invited the school children or used the PTSC buses to bring people?

--- We Need to rethink how we approach issues.

We should be streaming the consultation live online, tweets on twitter, updates on facebook etc.

We need to go to people, not ask them to come to us.

We need to change the way we interface with people.
Ms Hinds indicated that there were in fact twitter and facebook feeds covering the NSDS and its consultations.

No live television/ online streaming coverage was done however due to budget constraints.

People are not aware of which agencies are responsible for what.

How do we make policy when there is an information lag?

--- --- How do you engage young people to let them understand that they have a role to play?

Social media is a means of engaging young people.


Ms Hinds agreed that the Government has a responsibility but people also have a responsibility.

How do we get the state to listen to us and how do we take up the opportunities offered to us?

--- --- --- --- --- A major public education drive is required to engage the public on the services available.
--- It is intended that upon Statutory adoption, a comprehensive programme of dissemination of the NSDS will be embarked upon through all schools, Ministries, State Agencies etc.

We need to engage civic society groups to get to the communities.

--- --- The Northern Range provides very important ecosystem services.

Should consider the “Payment for Ecosystem Services” Model.

This puts a monetary value on Natural Resources.


Ms Hinds indicated that this was precisely what the ProEcoServ Project which the Ministry is undertaking intends to accomplish.

in collaboration with UWI PROECOSERV outputs to be incorporated into the NSDS and future planning initiatives where relevant.

29 | P a g e PROGRAM / MEETING NAME: DATE: VENUE: NSDS PUBLIC CONSULTATION: TOBAGO 28/05/13 Division of Infrastructure and Public Utililties (Works) Conference Room, Old Farm Rd, Shaw Park, TOBAGO.
SUBMITTED BY: Jassodra Ramlokhan Renelle Sarjeant Jabal Hassanali ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Presentation Mr. Bobby Andrews and Mr. Ancil Kirk: “NSDS and You” Feedback Session Economic Issues: Proposals in the CEDP 2.0 include Integrated campus, university town, increasing hotel rooms Tourism: In the Harmonised Regional Option map for Tobago, only one Tourism Growth icon is placed in the SW portion of the Island.
There should be at least six (6) such dedicated tourism dev.

areas carded, with legal structures e.g.

Culloden, Bacolet, Englishman’s Bay, Crown Point area, Arnos Vale Mr. Dylan stated that not enough is being done to maintain the continued sustainability of our Tourism Assets.

In other countries, sites are registered and trademarked as heritage sites.

This in turn allows it to leverage grants from international agencies to maintain them.

The Main Ridge is underutilized in that regard.


Comments by Mr. Bobby Andrews: How will there be an Integrated campus by 2014 when we are already half way through 2013?

What are the development priorities in Leeward vs Windward Tobago?

Tobago context- 55% pop in south west 25% landscape Rural depopulation, poverty, rural urban migration Impacts on property values Debt restructuring programme will affect all these proposals.
Mr. Cozier noted that these maps are just schematic in nature and not meant to be so detailed.

Such details as to the particular tourism areas to be developed should come in the local area plans and the Tobago Spatial Development Plan.

Aside from the wider economic context provided by the CEDP 2.0, the spatial needs of these proposals need to be considered for targets to be met sooner rather than later.
This therefore needs to be illustrated in the Tobago Spatial Development Plan which is to be pursued by the THA.

To be developed Development and related local area plans.

further in the Tobago Spatial 30 | P a g e ISSUES RAISED DECISIONS/RESPONSES Vision: Still no sense as to what this is all about and thus there will never be buy in.

What are the parameters assumed that informed the plan and how reliable are these assumptions?

What is the projected population being planned for?
The situation in Trinidad may not reflect the situation in Tobago and these details need to be worked out before any ‘national’ plan can be accepted.

Locals cannot make the connection.

Mr. Cozier noted that such details are in the documents however delivery of these documents to the population and proper promotion of them may not have been robust enough.

Persons did not have enough time to familiarize themselves with the NSDS prior to the consultations.
He agreed that projections for the next10 yrs are necessary and that regional and local level populations must identify with the plan for it to work.

In summary the current projections that the NSDS assumes are as follows: T&T- Slow population growth, ageing population Tobago- faster population growth in part due to the effects of migration.

Dependents greater than young population.

Managed migration may be required.


Mr. Andrews stated that they tried as best as possible during the presentation to highlight local issues that the NSDS aims to address, perhaps not clearly enough e.g.

pictures of Studley Park and traffic congestion in Scarborough near the port were utilized.

TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Pg.
15 of the Core NSDS Document features the revised Vision Statement Ports: Ms Hadad of the Chamber of Commerce noted that nothing showing Port related development in Tobago was presented.

Why is this major infrastructure consideration, key to the future economic prosperity of Tobago not being adequately addressed in the NSDS and its related mapping?

Ms Hadad also felt that a public consultation in Tobago should feature more prominent maps of Tobago but as usual, they were playing second fiddle to Trinidad.
This implied a lack of sincerity and sensitivity on the part of the Division which in turn makes their job that much harder in securing buy in from the public.

Finally, she expressed fears that we make all these plans yet never achieve the targets in the timeframe suggested.

Where is the action?

Mr. Andrews indicated that details of port locations in the maps were intentionally omitted until the THA completes its Ports Terminal project.
This project will entail a feasibility study to be done to identify the sites in Tobago that are most amenable to port development.

It should be completed in the next fiscal year and its findings will be used to update the NSDS accordingly.

Port development in Tobago will be determined based on the findings of the feasibility study to be conducted by the THA.

The NSDS will be updated accordingly and the results will inform the development of the Tobago Spatial Development Plan.
Mr. Cozier noted that in Trinidad, the NSDS benefitted from the 2010 Regional Corporation plans however there was no similar existing plan in Tobago produced that recently.

As such, the Division was forced to work only with the usable information it had, inevitably resulting in some gaps.
The panel reminded participants however that a key difference between the NSDS and the old NPDP will be that it is to be reviewed every two years and as such it will stand to benefit from 31 | P a g e ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS the best available information in a timely manner.

The port feasibility study to be conducted by the THA is an example of such.
Mr. Cozier stated that no disrespect was intended regarding the size of the Tobago maps, they were simply drawn to scale.

He reminded the audience that this was a consultation for a ‘National plan” and although they resided in Tobago, they were citizens of Trinidad and Tobago and should have a say accordingly into the proposals and policies that will affect both islands.
Mr. Cozier at this point also took the time to clarify and differentiate the status between any Tobago plan that is to be produced to that of the Regional plans in Trinidad.

Tobago is more than a Region and therefore its plan cannot be termed the Tobago Regional Development Plan but rather the Tobago Development Plan.

The planning hierarchy: Given the planning hierarchy presented (with its national and sub national levels), the Global agenda does not seem to be represented.
Although global politics seem far removed from us locally, this is simply not the case in reality.

T&T are signatories to several international conventions e.g.

Agenda 21, and if we are not in line with these obligations, there can be severe ramifications.

Is this being taken into account in the NSDS?

Are there any contradictions between National policy and what is expected of us globally?

For instance the current growth rate of Tobago seems at odds with the Global policy of depopulation.
Another example is Cap and Trade – our country can be severely taxed if we contravene the rules of this agreement and fail to adequately protect our forests and wetlands as part of the Global Carbon reduction strategy.

Welfare mechanisms may come into play- Richer countries may be required to donate to less well-off countries.
With regard to the planning hierarchy presented, Mr. Sandy of Mr. Cozier indicated that the NSDS does in fact take into account many of our international obligations (where relevant) even if it is not explicitly expressed in that particular diagram.

However the point is well taken.

The policies of the NSDS have been rechecked and are in conformity with T&T’s international obligations and the various treaties we are signatories to.
In the Tobago Regional Plan, boundary lines to forests/ hillsides zones for each type of activity eg.

housing, agriculture, forests, has to be developed utilizing best practice guidance from the NSDS.
In response to Mr. Sandy’s concerns, Dr. Mohammed noted that even in the current legislative framework the THA is already a recognized Planning Authority; the new legislation attempts to give clearer meaning to this existing power and explain the relationship with Central Government in a more comprehensive manner.

The THA will be wholly responsible for creating the Tobago Development Plan so of course it will be in conformity with its own policies.
With regard to the Hillside Development and Building Code, Dr. Mohammed stated that these are national issues, not endemic to Tobago alone.

He noted that a national policy for Hillside Development has been approved and is ingrained into the NSDS to 32 | P a g e ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS help guide the lower levels of planning.
With respect to the Building Code, a Cabinet appointed Committee has already been appointed to comprehensively deal with this issue and any codes they formulate will be incorporated into the NSDS as they become available.

Mr. Cozier stated that Coastal Issues are being taken very seriously in the NSDS and is addressed comprehensively between several policies (12 – 16).

He noted the work of ICZM Committee, whose IMA and has THA work representation.
is being spearheaded by the Mr. Kirk did concede however that the larger point that how we say things at the strategic level is very important and should be addressed.

A more aggressive tone may be needed for the policies to be heeded.

The THA noticed that at the top of the pyramid was “Government Policy” and wondered if this meant the policies of Central Government.

If this was the case, it will imply that THA policy is not being taken into account.
This is therefore an untenable situation as any Tobago Development Plan to be done has to conform primarily to official THA policy and the diagram does not suggest this.

This leads to further questions as to the interaction between central government and the THA under the new legislation on which he would like further clarification.

Finally, how does the new framework treat with the issues of building codes and hillside development?

– these issues are of particular importance in Tobago.
the Toco-Tobago Coastal Management Security, Environmental protection, Agricultural Zoning and sea bridge connection: Coastal Management Security is serious issue not being given enough attention as Mangroves are often not properly considered when development happens.

How is this being addressed in the NSDS?

Preservation of the Main Ridge Reserve also a major concern.

Where are the army soldiers?

Who are the people to be involved in securing the coastal and forest environments?
We should view our environment like the Native Amerindians i.e.

safe- pristine, not to be touched- go see but do not spoil.

We must be more forceful in our language.

How are we going to zone agriculture which always seem to be losing out to urban development.

The NSDS should consider making a transport connection from Toco to Tobago.
Please refer to the following NSDS Policies: Policy 13: Sustainable use of natural resources Policy 14: Landscape management Policy 15: A coordinated approach to water resources and water quality Policy 16: Coastal and marine resource considerations Policy 18: Sustainable mineral use Policy 19: Sustainable energy extraction for agriculture and Policy 12: Planning fisheries recommends the identification of all land currently in agricultural use and potential development and retained in productive agricultural use.
land with significant productive from non-agricultural to be protected In the NSDS Core Document, Chapter 6: Regional Planning Guidance it is recommended that a transport connection from Toco to Tobago be explored.

The MPLSD in conjunction with the IDB is currently undertaking a Port Rationalisation Study, the results of which will inform future NSDS updates of this nature.
33 | P a g e TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS As noted earlier, feasibility studies still to be conducted by the THA.

A channel may be required to be cut which may result in the loss of coral and the effects of this have to be appropriately assessed and accounted for before a decision can be made.

THA mini malls in Charlotteville, Calder Hall etc.

where small neighbourhood commercial spaces at reasonable rents can be provided to reduce res- comm conflicts.
This to be worked out at the level of the local area plans upon the guidance of the Tobago Development Plan and the overarching NSDS The NSDS must be able to bridge the political divide.

It is an apolitical document that concerns itself with best practice, not the final planning decisions themselves.

ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/RESPONSES Status of the Cove Industrial Estate: What are the plans for this and other proposed industrial estates in Tobago?
Industrial decisions must be supported by port facilities, access to port facilities still to be resolved for Cove Industrial Estate Finding solutions for incompatible uses is a primary goal in physical planning.

If mismanaged, there can be a plethora of problems such as noise nuisance etc.

A sequential approach is advised by the NSDS.

One possible solution is sourcing specific land designations within communities for commercial activities.

This kind of approach is encouraged by the NSDS.


An issue the Division has grappled with for many years.

This is why the NSDS is to become a statutory document so as to ensure some form of continuity.

It is also why under the new legislation it will be statutorily mandated to be reviewed regularly so that it can be flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances.
Dr. Mohammed noted that the 2010 Municipal plans were produced under a PNM administration and the current administration saw its value and kept them.

These plans in turn formed part of the evidence base for the NSDS.

Land for Economic Activity: Community businesses being increasingly being pushed into industrial estates where rents are too expensive and their business is no longer viable.

Continuity: What will happen if the government changes?

Will the NSDS be scrapped?


It’s a 20 year vision but only a 5 year political term.

Why not instead build on existing plans?

Renewable Energy: Natural Gas and CNG is not renewable energy!

Urban areas should be seen as renewable energy sites e.g.

solar energy and energy from waste.


The following areas with potential for wind energy should be explored- Dragons Mouth, Serpent’s mouth, Toco Channel (strong currents), also south east Tobago, Speyside, north coast above offshore islands, south east Trinidad off Cedros etc.

This point was made to Ms Sarjeant at her Rapporteur Station.

Panel did not address this comment.


Comments can be further explored in the review of the Regional plans for the Municipal Corporations and the formulation of the Tobago Spatial Development Plan 34 | P a g e ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Enforcement: Will the new system have any teeth?

These are just nice words without it.

The rich will continue to get away with unauthorized development while the small man is harassed and persecuted.
Instances of the phrase “at the Ministers discretion” should be removed from NSDS policies as they often override projects and decisions.

Community Involvement: “Smokey” from Speyside made the following points; 1.

Population growth in Tobago/ high migration rate due to people in Trinidad running away from Crime 2.

How are the average man/ woman on the street and in the rumshop being involved?

3. Who has the final say in decision making?


Improved enforcement is a priority and provisions in the PAFD Bill reflect this.

In the meantime, the Division has taken steps to build the capacity of its Enforcement Unit.

The NSDS highlights the need for enforcement to be a critical part of the implementation strategy.

The panel stated the local area plans are being pursued from a bottom up perspective; the Community will drive the content of these plans.
The NSDS and Regional plans are meant to provide best practice guidance in that regard.

Please refer to Policy 6: Involving People in Planning.
35 | P a g e PROGRAM / MEETING NAME: DATE: VENUE: RAPPARTEURS: NSDS PUBLIC CONSULTATION: PRIVATE SECTOR WEDNESDAY JULY 10TH, 2013 LEON AGOSTINI CONFERENCE HALL, CHAMBER BUILDING, WESTMOORINGS RENELLE SARJEANT JABAL HASSANALI ISSUES / COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Presentation Ms Marie Hinds: “NSDS and You” Feedback Session The panel was asked for clarification regarding two issues: 1.
Having a keen interest in Corporate Social Responsibility, she wanted to know how does the NSDS address the growing constituency of displaced (homeless, mentally ill etc.)

persons in our society and their indiscriminate use of open public spaces.

Are there any humane long-term solutions proposed?

2.

What is the plan regarding the maximisation of the country’s maritime and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) spaces?

Will there be a highway from Toco to Tobago as has long been rumoured?
Issue 1 is covered in the NSDS by the Objective "Building Places for People" and the relevant policies that flow from this objective.

Issue 2 is covered in the NSDS by Policy 16: Coastal and marine resource considerations.

is recommended It in the NSDS that a transport connection between Toco and Tobago should be explored.
The Ministry of Planning and Sustainable Development in conjunction with the IDB is currently undertaking a Port Rationalisation Study, the results of which will inform such a decision.

Minister Tewarie responded to the second issue first; stating that maximization of the maritime space was high on the agenda and that all issues were on the table, transport wise.
With that being said however, he stated categorically that there were no discussions by the Cabinet regarding a proposed highway linking Trinidad and Tobago.

Rather, the IDB was currently undertaking a port rationalization study for the country, the results of which would feed into the NSDS and help inform the setting up of appropriate platforms for a host of ancillary maritime industries to flourish e.g.

yachting and watersports.


He further noted that looking at data over the last century, comparatively to the rest of the Caribbean, Trinidad is a safe haven from hurricanes and therefore the natural conditions are in place to grow a very competitive ship repair and maintenance industry.
In addition, the Minister also spoke of engaging with officials from Panama regarding exploring the possibility of creating a trade link between the two countries that would allow us to take advantage of the Panama Canal and consequently open us up to an unprecedented volume of trade opportunities and markets.
In response to the participant’s first question, Minister Tewarie concurred that this indeed was a very pertinent issue and one that 36 | P a g e ISSUES / COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS successive governments have struggled to deal with in a holistic way throughout our country’s history.

He felt however, that part of the problem was that over the years we have gradually created an industry around trying to solve poverty and its attendant issues.
As such he reasoned, quite unintentionally, this ‘industry’ will always have a self-interest to stay relevant, and therefore poverty under this system will never be truly eradicated.

We must focus our efforts on the reformation of the individual and move away from the concept of a prisoner holding society.

It will therefore take time to deconstruct this mentality and introduce new approaches to deal with these issues.
For example, integrating with ICT to bring tangible improvements to the quality of life of the disabled community.

He noted that despite this, the Government was making strides as in the last six (6) months alone, 130 homeless persons were pulled off the streets in a sustained manner.

Mr. Michael Cumberbatch, a self-identified ‘baby-boomer’, made the observation that based on this NSDS presentation he has lived long enough to see us ‘come full circle’ in our thinking/ modus operandi.
He explained that many of the ‘new initiatives’ espoused in the NSDS existed already in some form or another.

For instance, in the ‘old days’, each of the ‘rural’ sugar estates or the more ‘urban’ oil fields had the requisite amenities to adequately service their resident populations.

The average citizen lived where he worked and had all that he needed in close proximity.

In fact, he was born on a sugar estate and there were no complications.
However, post-independence, we have pursued a misguided policy of consolidation and centralization and this sense of community was gradually lost.

Consequently, the people were ‘de-purposed’.

Now he sees we are trying to go back to how it was, but critically, in the Vision the sense of community purpose is still missing.

It fails to answer who we are as a people or articulate the underlying spirit of a Trinidadian i.e.

our natural ‘joie de vivre’.


It is critical that we acknowledge and declare this in the Vision; if not, the NSDS will be soulless and fail The Minister thanked Mr. Cumberbatch for his contribution and indicated that he agreed with many of his points.

He stated that the challenge of leadership is figuring out how to inspire people and connect them to the Strategy and this was indeed a very difficult thing to do and a constant struggle.
Still, he felt that despite the high level of cynicism that permeates society, his Ministry was working very hard to get mass engagement on the NSDS.

He admitted that recent efforts at consultation, such as the event held in UWI, did not meet his expectations in terms of attendance, but not for a lack of effort.

Mr Cumberbatch’s contribution is in keeping with the tenets of the NSDS.
Although the policy directives presented ‘new’, the NSDS endeavours to perform a coordinating function; providing a platform of cohesion across Ministries through its policies and regional guidance.

in the NSDS are not Pg.

15 of the Core NSDS Document features the revised Vision Statement.

Regarding the comments concerning Chaguanas, the Minister acknowledged that while they may not have reached the stage where there is an actual physical model, this will indeed be possible in the near future.
Still, Chaguanas is getting the considered attention it needs in terms of its properly planned expansion and he listed a number of forthcoming proposals that proved this such as the expansion of the Mid Centre Mall.

37 | P a g e ISSUES / COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS Mr. Cozier noted that finding an appropriate Vision that everyone could agree on has been a problem that has plagued this exercise since inception.
While Mr. Cumberbatch validly pointed out that it may not be inspiring enough, others have felt almost the opposite, thinking it was too optimistic and not practical enough.

Based on these consultations, we will work on improving it and striking a felt that Mr. more acceptable balance.

Mr. Cozier also Cumberbatch and the first commenter highlighted a very serious issue when they spoke of many in society being ‘displaced’ and ‘de-purposed’.
He felt that in order to make a serious impact on this problem, intervention needs to take place at the post-primary school level; to catch the students who fall out of the system after they sit SEA.

to take root in our hearts, making it impossible to achieve.

Without real purpose, our innovation and creativity is wasted on the scrap iron industry and the importation of cars.

Mr. Cumberbatch also shared his thoughts on current trends occurring on the ground, regardless of what the NSDS intends.
Much in the same way Chaguanas developed ahead of Couva and California (in contrast to the vision of the 1984 NPDP), he predicted that Pt.

Fortin will not be the true beneficiary of the proposed highway extension.

Rather the towns of Debe, Penal and Barrackpore are the centres that will thrive and if we do not acknowledge and properly prepare for this, like Chaguanas, this growth will take place as uncontrolled sprawl.
Despite this, Chaguanas still has the potential to become the next ‘premiere’ city of the Caribbean, but to achieve this, the Borough Council must have a vision, and be able to present this in the form of a physical model, so that people can see the concepts for urban expansion He recommended that a port facility be reopened in Felicity as this will give much needed access to the people of Central Trinidad to the coastline and ultimately expose more persons to the use of the sea.
in a controlled fashion and buy into it.

A male participant expressed his support for the NSDS initiative and indicated that it is much needed.

He noted three areas of concern however: The panel thanked him for his support and noted his concerns.

Policy 1: Supporting Sustainable Development states that all development management decisions must be “evidence based, participatory and holistic” 1.
Some policies cannot be negotiated and should be informed strictly by the best available scientific knowledge and research.

We have a habit of trying to pander to people’s opposition when implementing a hard line position, and thus is negated e.g.

hillside development.

intended effect the 2.


A plan like this is ambitious to say the least and will require a massive amount of coordination across the board; both among the various Ministries and State Agencies within themselves and also in terms of the Public Sector 38 | P a g e ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS interactions with the Private Sector/ general populace as a whole.
Given the enormity of this challenge, is a ten – twenty year time frame for achievement of the vision really feasible?

Are we being realistic in our timelines given that we have gone down the wrong road on so many issues, cognizant that these mistakes will have to be worked back before we can go in the right direction.

He drew the example of the landfill in Beetham to support his point.
The landfill was never supposed to be sited there and has to be decommissioned and new waste sites found even as we attempt to go into a new direction of promoting recycling and other more sustainable ways of treating with our waste.

3.

Referencing Mr. Cozier’s earlier comment, he indicated that the general notion that that the Vision was too optimistic is a very valid point that should not be overlooked.

The NSDS has to be realistic to be effective.


It should not follow the example of the Police Service who always talk of implementing ambitious, ‘hi-tech’, initiatives which are always undermined by the basic fundamentals that are not in place.

Fix the foundation first before getting too ambitious.

Ms Ramdial of Corinth Village stated that many of the themes and policies of the NSDS were at odds with what was actually happening on the ground currently.
She referenced the example of the proposed MovieTowne Complex currently being built in Cocoyea.

While the NSDS speaks to the creation of strong and resilient communities, this proposed development directly threatens this very notion as it can irreparably destroy the ‘humble’, peaceful way of life practiced in this ‘down to earth’ community.

Not only is the proposed major commercial activity disrupting, it will overwhelm the existing infrastructure.
The existing road system cannot accommodate the scale of the operation and there will be serious longterm traffic implications as a relatively minor road will now act as a major thoroughfare access off the highway.

This will result in protests from the The Minister responded by conceding he couldn't guarantee continuity with this effort however if it is passed in Parliament and becomes a statutorily backed document, the chances of it being retained and staying relevant becomes significantly higher.
Please refer to Policy 6: Involving People in Planning.

In Part V of the proposed PAFD Bill, in fact unreasonable to With regard to her first point, Minister Tewarie stated that land use tensions in the evolution of a community are unavoidable.

It is insist that a wishful thinking and community should or must stay exactly the same; change is a fact of life and development must be facilitated.

How we facilitate development is critical however, and this is precisely the purpose of planning and enforcement.
With that being said, it was his understanding the MovieTowne proposal required a Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) from the EMA to be that that notice of the application may be forwarded to Section 33 states: “1) The Minister may, in a Development Order, provide in relation to specified categories of applications for permission to develop land — (a) such person or class of persons as may be specified; that notice of the application shall be advertised in (b) at least two daily newspapers in circulation in Trinidad and Tobago or on the land to which the application relates or both in such manner and for such period as may be 39 | P a g e ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS residents.
For the NSDS to work therefore, consultations need to take place at the community level as well, not only the national level.

She noted that what was occurring at her community was not an isolated incident.

She cited further examples such as theremoval of mangrove in Mosquito Creek, the inappropriate siting of a dump in Forres Park as well as the increased pressure to convert viable agricultural lands in that community into housing.

approved.
approved.

For a CEC to be granted for a development of this scale, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) must be done and as part of the EIA process, community consultations are mandated.

He therefore has to trust the integrity of the system that this wasin fact done, and the views of the community were properly considered before the CEC was granted.

Still, in light of Ms Ramdial's protestations, the Minister promised to have a second look at the application file.
Ms Ramdial closed her contribution asking what happened to the previous administration's Vision 2020 initiative and whether the NSDS would suffer the same fate in terms of continuity.

At this point, Ms Hinds interjected stating there is impending reform in land use planning legislation through the Planning and Facilitation of Development Bill which will soon be introduced to Parliament.
She felt therefore encouraged listening to Ms Ramdial contributions as the new legislation in fact contains provisions that deal squarely with her concerns.

In it, are clauses that mandate third party consultations for certain classes of development.

Moreover, if a development is approved, the successful applicant must post signage on the site indicating exactly what is being constructed so as to ensure that development is no longer clandestine and the larger community is purposely kept 'in the dark'.
Mr. Eugene Reynald, a private developer indicated that his primary purpose for attending the afternoon's session was to challenge the Minister on his moratorium on hillside development in the Northern Range however the limited time does not afford him all that he wanted to say on the matter.

Instead, upon hearing the discussions thus far, he preferred to make a broader comment on his concern regarding the 'bigger picture' being espoused.
In his mind, this is translating into an expanded Public Service which is already a failing institution given its current workload.

The Minister retorted by asking if he would prefer there be no management system in place to regulate built development in this country.

Mr. Reynald responded stating that the Government should provide guidelines to development, not attempt to do or control everything.
The Minister replied stating therefore fundamentally misunderstood what is being attempted in this new system as this was precisely what the NSDS provides at the that Mr. Reynald specified; (c) that the applicant shall furnish, at such times and to such persons, such the the application as may be specified; (d) application shall be determined only after the expiry of the period which may be specified and upon satisfactory proof of compliance with specified conditions respecting publishing of the application; or (e) information respecting that for such other matters as he thinks fit.
(2) A person is entitled to make representations or objections in relation to an application referred to in the Development Order to the National Planning Authority within twenty-eight days of the date on which notice of the application is advertised.” Section 38 states: “ 1) At least one notice of the grant of permission to land shall be prominently displayed and develop maintained in, on, or about the land being developed.
(2) Display of a building permit issued under Part VI shall, in respect of the development permitted by that permit, constitute compliance with this section.” rural Policy 3: Promoting sustainable urban and development prohibits urban development of hillside sites above 91 metres elevation and on gradients steeper than 1 in 4 in line with the Guidelines for Hillside Development for the Northern Range.
40 | P a g e ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS He felt that the problem was not one of planning but rather implementation.

Plans are essentially 'cut and paste' but implementation requires a will and entrepreneurial spirit the public sector simply does not possess.
Thus these proposed reforms will only serve to further choke the private sector and rather than address the problems of implementation that plague our country, will only serve to further exacerbate them.

A case in point was the moratorium which was already having serious implications.

Mr. Abraham, another private developer raised two points: 1.

The intent of the NSDS is seriously undermined by the chronic bureaucracy currently plaguing the system.
Aside from TCPD, WASA is a major offender as well in this regard.

Some approvals take 2 - 3 years for a development that takes only six months to build.

This is an untenable situation, especially if we are striving to meet the objectives of the plan.

2.

The policy of decentralisation will further dampen an already fragile real estate market.

People are unwilling to invest outside of the urban centres and this is responsible for the pressures on the hillsides.
The inherent cost of development is too high for profits to be made in rural areas and so developers are caught between a rock and a hard place due to the moratorium.

Mr. Abraham did indicate his support for the NSDS however, noting that it was an excellent document and a worthy initiative.

national level.

The planning reforms introduce a framework to facilitate development that for the most part will be undertaken by the private sector.
For example, the "Government" is not building that proposed MovieTowne in Corinth.

Mr. Reynald noted that the so-called reason for the hillside moratorium is the flooding it causes in the built settlements occupying the valleys below.

However in reality, honest developers are being made scapegoats because the flooding is due primarily to the antiquated drainage systems in place that are the GOVERNMENT'S RESPONSIBILITY to maintain and upgrade.
Mr. Cozier stated that hard decisions have to be made and the hillside moratorium was an example of such.

He noted however that there were numerous vacant/ derelict sites in urban centres such as San Fernando and all through the East/West Corridor.

These represented an untapped resource that was not being exploited by developers and he was unsure as to why.
Although in the NSDS, he suggested that not specifically addressed measures (incentives or otherwise) be put in place to encourage developers to infill these urban areas and make proper use of these sites.

Mr. Reynald replied saying this was all well and good but what about those who have already invested on sites in the hillsides and now stand to make heavy losses on their investment due to the moratorium.

This is unfair and unjust.


The Minister agreed that this was unfortunate, however he had to weigh the grievances of the developers against the larger public interest.

The moratorium is not for forever; the rollout of infrastructural interventions to deal with flooding in POS will happen in 2014 after which it is possible the moratorium may be lifted.
Mr. Reynald responded stating that the moratorium punishes 41 | P a g e ISSUES/ COMMENTS DECISIONS/ RESPONSES TREATMENT IN THE NSDS/ FUTURE POLICY IMPLICATIONS unscrupulous and honest developers alike (and in most cases, the unscrupulous will ignore the moratorium anyway).

A fairer compromise would be to allow development on the hillside provided that the applicant is able to produce an accompanying drainage plan that shows how overall net run off will be reduced.
He insisted that this was possible technically in many site specific cases.

A commenter noted that for Municipal Corporations to truly have some level of autonomy and their devolved planning powers to be truly effective they need to have sources of income independent from Central Government.

This empowerment can come from bringing back the property tax and structuring it so that it is paid directly to the Municipal Corporation in which the property is located.
The panel agreed with this assertion, and the Minister assured the is working on commenter that the Ministry of Finance is committed to issue and comprehensively addressing this ensuring that the tax will not be punitive or unreasonable.

The Minister of Finance has stated his intention of reinstating an updated version of the Land and Building Tax.
42 | P a g e 3.4 Summary of the State/ Quasi-State Consultation The State/ Quasi-State Consultation stands out as the only consultation conducted where a workshop activity formed part of the proceedings.

The mock Integrated Sustainability Appraisal involved assessing each of the three spatial development options presented against eighteen (18) Sustainability objectives developed.
It should be noted that while in general there was broad consensus and agreement with the 18 objectives, the following amendments were almost unanimously suggested independently among the groups:  Objective 4 should be amended to simply read "To ensure that everyone in Trinidad and Tobago has the opportunity for a decent and affordable home."

The phrase, "... in the community they want to live in."

should be deleted because this is simply impractical and unrealistic.

 Objective 8 i.e.
 Objective 8 i.e.

"To ensure that development that meets the needs of today should not restrict the choices and opportunities for future generation."

should be omitted because it is too generic.

Being the broadly accepted definition for the term 'sustainability', it therefore does not need to be a specific objective as this is supposed to be the overall intent of all the objectives in tandem.

The three spatial development options evaluated were: 1.

Concentrated Development 2.

Dispersed Development 3.


Harmonised Regional Development More information on these three spatial development options can be found in the NSDS: Method Statement and Integrated Sustainability Appraisal document.

Overall, the Harmonised Regional Development option was revalidated, being the clear choice of the majority of the groups.
However, it was noted by many that this was simply because “Harmonised Regional Development” was essentially a balanced version of the two other options which represented extreme positions on opposite ends of the spectrum.

In that regard, the process seemed slightly ‘disingenuous’ as in actuality there was only one ‘real’ choice.

Additionally, one group remarked that the three options available were too generic and felt like ‘borrowed’ models, not necessarily suited to our national context.
It was felt that a fourth option was necessary, however there was not enough time available for them to fully flesh out the details of this proposed new option.

There was the suggestion by one group however for a possible hybrid between the “Concentrated” and “Harmonised Regional” Development options i.e.

utilising some of the elements of the Concentrated Development but with a presumption that any further intensification of development in the main urban corridors follow ‘smart growth’ principles.
Some persons indicated that in undertaking the exercise, they were forced to make assumptions in the absence of reliable information to inform otherwise.

These include timeframes for implementation and the actual financial resources/ political will required to pursue these options.

Whilst ‘Concentrated Development’ was an almost automatic, ‘by default’ option, the others require strategic, coordinated government interventions that will take time to implement and are contingent on other factors.
Finally it was noted across many of the groups that the three options at essence represented spatial settlement patterns and whilst the use of land and how it is ordered is important, it was not the only factor in achieving many of the 18 sustainable objectives, which sometimes featured broader 43 | P a g e considerations.
For instance, a cultural shift in the behaviour/ thinking of citizens will be required to achieve objectives such as the promotion of alternate forms of transport and leading healthier lifestyles; more so than the spatial organisation of the country.

From the feedback session held after lunch a number of important points were raised.

While many mirrored responses in the general public consultation events, there were some comments unique to this setting.
These include:  The need for a coordination mechanism to guide the implementation of programmes/ projects that straddle two or more Municipal Corporation boundaries and involve the input of sectoral agencies.

 The need for an updated database of land ownership and tenure in this country.
 The tempering of undue Ministerial influence in the system through the introduction of clear protocols that guide the resolution of situations wherein a Minister may want to introduce a measure at variance with approved plans.

 Addressing the ‘infrastructural lag’ challenge.


Finding innovative ways to incentivise developers to assist public authorities in the provision of additional servicing infrastructure required to support development and mitigate against the negative externalities that are generated.

 To develop a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation system from the outset of plan making and project delivery.
After the consultation, all the Ministries and State Agencies were officially requested to provide further written feedback upon continued, more intensive scrutiny of the draft documentation.
In that regard, responses from and on-going collaboration with the Land Settlement Agency (LSA), Housing Development Corporation (HDC), the Ministry of Food Production, Ministry of Sport, Ministry of Energy and Energy Affairs (MEEA), Tobago House of Assembly (THA), Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT), Ministry of Labour and Small and Micro Enterprise Development, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Tourism and the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA) has led to the refinement of several policies and the updating of existing survey information.
44 | P a g e 4.0 The Way Forward This report attempts to comprehensively and accurately capture the views and opinions shared by members of the public regarding the Draft NSDS thus far.

Moreover, it seeks to actively demonstrate the ways in which these sentiments have informed the revisions that have been made and point to where concerns expressed may have been addressed.

Regarding the status of the NSDS, it is basically finalised and will soon be brought to Parliament for debate and adoption.
It will be brought in the first instance for adoption under the Town and Country Planning Act.

After this is done, the Planning and Facilitation of Development (PAFD) Bill is to be immediately tabled in Parliament for debate.

If PAFD is passed and proclaimed, a motion for the NSDS to be adopted under that Act will be made as well.
The reason for adopting the NSDS under both Acts is so that its statutory significance cannot be hampered during the lag time that will take place in operationalizing the PAFD Act.

This is by no means the end of your say however and all are encouraged to engage in the parliamentary process as the NSDS is further shaped through the cut and thrust of debate.
Please continue to offer your comments and suggestions, and air your concerns, either directly to the Ministry or through your parliamentary representative.

It cannot be emphasized enough that the NSDS is not meant to be a static document, frozen in one moment in time, but rather should be a ‘living document’ continuously monitored and updated accordingly.
The NSDS introduces a number of new ideas and concepts currently at variance with certain core aspects of a modus operandi entrenched in this country for many years.

Implementing and enforcing some of these changes therefore will require a concerted effort from all citizens.

Your suggestions on how to further develop some of these concepts in a realistic way will be greatly appreciated as we move forward toward detailing mechanisms and processes.
Stating how we need to change going forward was the easy part.

The challenge lies in actually following through and while some obviously have more responsibility than others in leading this charge, we all have a role to play.

45 | P a g e Appendix I Attendance Listing for the North Trinidad Consultation No.
Name Vishal Persad Darian Beharry Denesh Ramsawak Kenwyn Richard Bhesham Ramlal Joy Frederick Dennis Ramdeen Ken Snaggs Fidel Omar-Ali Ainsley Charles Sharen Badaisee Michael Tang Huk Linda Hewitt Felix Kendall Kamalwattie Ramsubaik Louis Guy Indira Rampersad Akindele Looby Vivekh Pandit Chad Lue Choy Gemma Richards Michelle Deverteuil Jalaludin Khan Ronnie Ramroop Dean Arlen Rhea Gindalal Shiraz Mohammed Rosie Seetahal Kerson Coombs Victor Bishop Phillip Gemma Thomas Lystra Hernandez Arvinda Rampersad Ruth Arlington Liselle Lam De Souza Avril Ramchand Organization / Affiliation Min.
of Energy Genivar - - UWI COSTATT Pepper Ltd APDSL TSTT UWI Architect First People – Warao Consultant Consultant National Ramleela Council Inc. CFCA UWI Architect - TTGBC Mootoo Lands and Surrounding Association Paul DeGannes & Co.

Independent Planning Consultant UWI Dada Projects UWI UWI Teacher TEDB/CCI Inch by Inch Construction Las Cuevas Community Las Cuevas Community - GNP Consultant to MEEA Real Estate MVAC 46 | P a g e No.
Name Calvin Weekes Alicia Charles Martin Richards Sharon Lans Arnold McLetchie Jacqueline Morris Rabina Shar Karen Celestine-Howe Deosaran Jagroo Fungker Fuyp Liesel Charles Natalie Martin Vasant Dwarika Deborah Thomas-Austin Crystal Gomes Jenelle Jackson Shivdi Singh Niron Carrington Rajkumar Rampersad Suren Singh Yinka Jagbir Daina Julien Lenora B Joseph Kim Boodram A Brown Felix Voisen-Fores Barbara Bridgewater Sherna Benjamin Dinesh Goolcharan Carol Ann Depeaza Nirad Tewarie Cheryle Tewarie Dustin G Abena Chevannes Rajeen Sankar Mary Mohammed Ignacio R. Smith Waheeda Hosein Ramdeen Ramhtrack Stewart Henderson Raul Bermudez Organization / Affiliation - Business Concepts and Solutions MRCL CFCA - UTT Warao Elders Teacher CEO - HDC Joshura Foundation Caroni EPOS CPPA Heavenly Delights Eco Power Group - Caroni (1975) Ltd Caroni (1975) Ltd UWI CPPA Heavenly Delights Trinidad Express MOH Warao Discovery Learning Forum OABI Caroni Ltd. MEEA TTCSI UWI SEPP - UWI - - - - - - 47 | P a g e No.
78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 Name Shinelle Padmore Yvonne Mc.

Lean Roberts Montgomery Gill David Shim Helen Benn Colleen Barbaste-Jackson Chantelle Jackson Ann-Marie McLean Pat McGraw Sochow Laltoo Cherisse Gellineau Neisha Manickchand Stara Ramlogan Natalie Hunte B Thomas Sean Anon Glen Ramjag Sean Sooknanan Winston Ramsaroop Organization / Affiliation - Carib Invest Ag.
Association SusTrust Board Youth on the move Heavenly Delights Heavenly Delights Las Cuevas CC COPE COSTAATT MEEA Independent TCPD Concerned citizen Concerned citizen - NFFA UWI T/PRC MVAC Attendance Listing for the South Trinidad Consultation: No.
Name Masahood Ali Aziz Adeyemi Hinds Ishmeal Samad Joseph Williams Seeta Lucy Jagroop Lilla Ramkissoon-Agard Nicole Siew Koomtie Siew Hubert Ramnarine Lennox Mohamed Shazam Mohammed Donny Ramsoondar Nicole Frontin Seeta Ramnarine-Khadoo Rachel Mycoo Peter Mitchell Aldwin Beddoe Organization / Affiliation Abdul Aziz Trust - - Merry Boys Sports Club NIB - Economic Development Board - Retired Public Servant Guinness Cavaliers - Staff - MP - San Fernando West Office - National Centre for Persons with Disabilities - - - 48 | P a g e No.
Name Marian Rampaul Azizi Harris Dave Cockburn Ramkumarie Radha Bedasie Anthony Soochit Sasha Jattansingh Yvonne Webb Annette Seaforth Deborah Cheesman Ann-Marie Castillo Herbert Huggins Tara Seepersad Ramnarine Seepersad Dennison Maloney Patricia Lans-Zurcher Shaheed Mohamed Richard Blewitt Krishendath Goorcharan Sekou Bastien Clarissa Victor Nolan Porter Mrs. Rampersad Nicholas Westmas Rosemounde Montano Kavir Motoo Catherine Ali Lennox Sankersingh Becham Manbodah Carlton Cayenne Beverly Singh Timothy Teemahal Vishnu Maharaj Gerald Lewis Skafte Awardy Sylvia Babwah Lisa Bholai David Mowlah-Baksh Kavita Jattansingh Carolyn Kissoon Tony Howell Mabel Drayton Organization / Affiliation - InnolveTek Recycle Invest TT Scott and Mendez Village Council - - Guardian Newspaper - HDC - - - - Naparima Bowl - Lengua Improvement Welfare and Cultural Org UN San Fernando West MP - - Atlantic Geospatial Solutions - - - - - Sou Sou Lands - - CARIBBEAN STORY TELLERS FOUNDATION CARIBBEAN FEATURE FILM COMPANY Select Properties Ltd PETROTRIN Councillor for Debe West Ministry of Public Admin Union park Development Committee - Express Guardian Ministry of Planning, AO IV (Retired) 49 | P a g e No.
60 61 62 Name Charan Rampersad Lana O’Keiffe Debbie Dookhie Organization / Affiliation - NIDCO MP San Fernando West office Attendance Listing for the Tobago Consultation: No.
Name Kenneth Biscombe Darren Daly Rondon George Errol Caesar Kay Chapman Keli Gbekor Crystal Lawrence Ryan O’Neil Anslem Richards Gillian Stanislaus Godwyn Richardson Crystal Sandy Rennie Dumas Deborah Marcellle Jocelyn Benjamin Kimba Anderson Diane Hadad Bertrand Bhikarry Carlos Dillon Nekaisha Legerton Dain Cape Andrea Williams Joanne Phillips Cheva Alexander Lenora Phillip- Edwards Lyndon Skeete Dean Grandison Avian Parks Gareth Caesar Allan Stewart Christine Smith Margaret Godson-Phillip Nadine Granville-Caesar Organization / Affiliation MDD Dept.
of Natural Sciences and the Env.

Valuation Division, Min of Finance Tobago Tourism THA Dept.

of Natural Sciences and the Env.

Channel 5 Tobago National Security Dept.

of Natural Sciences and the Env.

Tobago Education - Tobago news Division of Health THA, Legal Chamber Chamber Chamber Signal Hill Secondary School - - - Canaan Bon Accord Constituency Office Tag Entertainment Caribbean Dream Ltd Deegeez Investment Co Ltd Real Estate - THA Legal TEMA DIPU Ministry of Tobago Development - 50 | P a g e No.
Name Robert W Dillon Jacki Armstrong Mirelda Samuel Lester George Daniel Peter Nicolson Janelle Moore Berton Orr Wendy Hosten Raffie David Eric Powder Eric Wilson Jassodra Ramlockhan Ingrid Melville Sam Sinanan Lyndon Mark William Trim Aljoscha Wothke Ralph Henry Shian Martinez Anton Parks Maria Williams Peter Brimscombe Kenwyn Baldour Damika Marshall Joshua Farmer Juliet Pope Dion George Kwesi Des Vignes Kym Chapman Rebecca Paul Byron Noble Rupert Mckenna Harris McDonald Dunston Denoon Lois Solomon Darren Hector Robert Bobb Rhonda Lewis Organization / Affiliation Mt Pleasant Credit Union Joy of Learning Resource Centre - ACP Tobago - Signal Hill Sec - Environment Tobago WASA WASA Fire Service TCPD - Hotelier Fire Service Dept.
of Nat Environment Tobago - - Tobago Channel 5 - Arts Alive Health and Social Services - - - - - - - - - - Commissioner of Affadavits Div.

of Health and Social Services Div of Community Development and culture - - 51 | P a g e Attendance Listing for the Private Sector Consultation: No.
26 Name IAN MARFLEET DHANO SOOKOO NAZIMUL ALI BRIAN DICKSON NATASHA SUBERO ZAMNATH ALI MELANIE RICHARDS EUGENE REYNALD COLIN BARCANT REUBEN SMITH PETER FUNG KEE FUNG MAGARITA LEONARD CATHERINE DA SILVA DEBBIE REYES BERNARD MITCHELL BERNARD CAMPBELL SONJI PIERRE CHASE SHARON INGLEFIELD HAYDEN LOWHAR ROGER SALLOUM HANS NOTHNAGEL DONALD NOTHNAGEL MOONILAL LALCHAN RIANNA PAUL IBRAHIM ABDOOL HALIMA KHAN Organization / Affiliation ACUITAS CARIBBEAN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF T&T AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF T&T AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF T&T ARTHUR LOK JACK CHAGUANAS CHAMBER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE CSR SOLUTIONS CONSULTANT/PROPERTY DEVELOPER CONSULTANT/PROPERTY DEVELOPER CONSULTANT/PROPERTY DEVELOPER CONSULTANT/PROPERTY DEVELOPER CONSULTANT/PROPERTY DEVELOPER DESKTOP DESIGNS ECOENGINEERING ETECK INTELLIGENT BUSINESS ADVANTAGE JCS CARIBBEAN LAW NEALCO REAL ESTATE REPUBLIC BANK RASCORP CARIBBEAN RANGE LIMITED RANGE LIMITED TT CHAMBER TT CHAMBER TT CHAMBER TT CHAMBER Attendance Listing for the State/ Quasi-State Consultation: No.
Name Winifred David Carlton Harding Chanka David Ann Marie Francis Charles Dr. Anderson Morris Devanand Jagroop Joan H Phillip Aisha Donaldson Carol Ann DePeaza Organization / Affiliation Port of Spain Corporation Ministry of Education Port of Spain Corporation Ministry of Housing Land and Marine Affairs Ministry of Health Ministry of Planning and Sustainable Development MFPLMA Ministry of Local Government Ministry of Energy 52 | P a g e No.
Name Rodney Amar Irfan Hosein Dinelle Ramkoon Marlene Agge Camille Rollingson Petal Joseph Stephen Boodhram Onika Morris Alleyne Celeste Sobion Farrell Christopher Jassodra Rampersad Ravi Maharaj Erica Prentice- Pierre Stephanie Elder-Alexander Anthony Arjune Ivor Superville Vijal Lal Danny Solomon Joyceline Hargreaves Arlene McComie Hugh Thomas Nisha Surjbally Gerard Ahee Lychelle Brown Samuel Haniff Grace LesFouris Vanessa Roodal Lutchman Martin Cooke (T.T.L.S.)
Justin Blackman Marlene Andrews Francis Pierre Margaret Godson Phillips Janet Furlonge Annette Stapleton Seaforth Christopher Jasper Lynette Bailey- Clarke Kevin Peters Patricia Cunningham Wendy Quamina Yorke Yohan Ramoutar Kimlin Lee Yaw Organization / Affiliation Ministry of Tertiary Education Ministry of Trade Industry and Investment Ministry of Finance Valuation Division - Ministry of Public Facilities Ministry of Local Government Ministry of Local Government PTSC MPSD T&TEC TCPD Sange Grande Regional Corporation Eteck Ministry of Food Production Eteck MEEA National Energy Corporation (NEC) CDA CDA MP&SD CDA NAMDEVCO Ministry of Tertiary Education Ministry of Local Government Land Settlement Agency Consultant Ministry of Planning and Sustainable Development UDECOTT Diego martin Regional Corporation Ministry of Sport San Juan Laventille Regional Corporation Ministry of Tobago Development TDC Tunapuna/ Piarco Regional Corporation Ministry of Community Development Siparia Regional Corporation Minstry of Planning and Sustainable Development Ministry of National Security Ministry of National Security Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Public Administration 53 | P a g e No.
52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 Name Kylene Deosingh Kyana Bowen Randy Ramadhar Singh Saroma Roopnarine Ryan Maharaj Ria Atwaroo Andrea Beach Kylene Deosingh Camille Guichard Leola Le Gendre Haydn Jones Natalie Robinson Arnold Aniela Ramsubhag Sarah Mahadeo Reshma Bhola Dennison Vincent Barry Samaroo Rayadh Mayrhoo Kyana Bowen Lisa Henry David Judith Chow Dara Healy Donna Brodber Organization / Affiliation Ministry of the Attorney General ODPM Ministry of Energy Princess Town Regional Corporation Ministry of Finance Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration Ministry of National Diversity and Social Integration Ministry of the Attorney General TCPD (Facilitator) National Energy Corporation (NEC) National Energy Corporation (NEC) Ministry of Gender Youth and Child Development Ministry of Gender Youth and Child Development Ministry of Planning and Sustainable Development EMBD EMBD CTTRC MPLSD ODPM Ministry of Education Ministry of Gender Youth and Child Development Ministry of Science and Technology NIDCO 54 | P a g e