Interview With THA Councillor Petal Ann Roberts

Councillor Petal Ann Roberts says she is ready to serve in any capacity in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), as the Administration prepares to announce key appointments tomorrow.

Ms. Roberts, who previously served as Secretary of Finance, Trade and the Economy and was the first woman to lead the division in a TPP-led administration, said she is motivated by ongoing projects and a desire to continue initiatives she began during her previous tenure.

“The experience was rewarding. After 18 months, when I looked at all the achievements for this administration, and more importantly for Tobago, I feel a sense of purpose and pride and a sense of accomplishment after 18 months in the position. So it has been quite good.”

She acknowledged the challenges of meeting public expectations, noting the long-standing development deficits on the island.

“The needs of Tobago are so grave and so great. The development deficit over the last 25 years has been so, so large and wide. And it was difficult to meet all the needs of the people. Persons had very high expectations having to come into office after 21 years of one particular government. So it was tough meeting all the needs and actually accepting, sometimes accepting disappointment that we could not do everything in four years. But we continue to press on.”

Asked why she is willing to serve again, Councillor Roberts said her commitment to ongoing projects, including the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS), is a driving factor.

“The digitisation of accounting and financial management system from budgeting to actually financial statements. So I am actually excited. I’ve had several conversations with Minister Tancoo on that. I’ve also had conversations with service providers on the implementation of the IFMIS. So that is one of the projects that actually persuaded me or encouraged me to take another shot at it. As well as I think that I have served well with distinction. And when I was asked to, for the appointment a second time, I thought it best for the people of Tobago and even for myself because I have to be the change I want to see. Many times we sit and we complain about Tobago and what is happening. And I think that me taking up this position is actually showing that I want to be part of the solution.”