THA Chief Optimistic As Marine Parks Bill Advances To Chief Parliamentary Council
One month after the Tobago House of Assembly Legislature passed a motion to endorse the Tobago Marine Parks Bill, 2026, the legislation has now advanced to the Chief Parliamentary Council.
Speaking to the media during a Hurricane Preparedness Workshop hosted by the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) and key stakeholders, THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine expressed optimism that the Bill will soon reach Parliament.
« It goes to the Chief Parliamentary Council as all other Bills, as you would imagine. So not just this one, any Bill that goes to the Parliament, including what originates at the Cabinet, also goes through the CPC before it makes its way to the Parliament, so I suspect within a week or so it would be tabled. »
The Bill was revisited following a tragic jet ski incident on April 8th, which claimed the life of seven-year-old Angelica Jogie at Pigeon Point Heritage Park.
The THA was criticised by stakeholders and tour operators who argued that they were not properly consulted.
However, Mr. Augustine reminded that this Bill is an updated version of the 2020 Bill and incorporates feedback gathered during previous consultations.
« For example, the original Tobago Marine Parks Bill had a cut-off point for use in the marine park without special permit at 6pm. What we proposed takes it to 10pm. »
Other concessions include raising the decibel level for music on tours from 60 to 100.
However, Mr. Augustine defended the introduction of stiffer penalties, noting they are aligned with existing national environmental legislation.
