Trinidad and Tobago’s new Government is now officially in action. Just days after being sworn in, Cabinet Ministers, Junior Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries began their official duties on Monday.
A new chapter in Trinidad and Tobago’s political history officially began Monday morning, as members of the newly sworn-in United National Congress Coalition of Interest Government assumed their portfolios and reported for duty.
Following Saturday’s swearing-in at President’s House, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her full slate of Cabinet Ministers, Junior Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries wasted no time settling into their roles.
From energy to education, ministers were briefed by permanent secretaries and senior staff as they began charting the course for the new administration’s legislative and policy agenda.
Leading the charge in national security, Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge and Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander both have vowed to tackle crime as it continues to be an issue in the country.
At the Ministry of Health, Dr. Lackram Bodoe and Minister in the Ministry Rishad Seecharan received briefings and were welcomed by staff at the ministry.
Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services Vandana Mohit said she’s busy and ready to work.
“I met with some colleagues some old friends, I once worked here so its my pleasure to be here as the Minister this morning I look forward to working with each and every one to make our country and our people happy.”
Michelle Benjamin, now at the helm of Culture and Community Development was congratulated by the staff at the ministry – in a release it said her academic background in environmental and natural resource management coupled with her previous work in the Ministry of Culture and Community positions her to bridge cultural heritage with sustainable community initiatives.
Over at Housing, with Minister Dr. David Lee and Minister in the Ministry Anil Roberts the staff there expressed that they look forward to a successful and impactful tenure under their stewardship.
Infrastructure development is also in focus, with Jerlean John heading the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, while Eli Zakour took charge of the newly created Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation…
With over 50 years of combined experience in strategic leadership, business and public service, the staff at the ministry said the Ministers bring energy, expertise, and a deep commitment to building a better, more connected Trinidad and Tobago.
Permanent secretaries and senior staff welcomed the incoming teams, offering policy briefings and tours of their respective ministries.