The Tobago jet ski operators have formed a new entity.
President of the Tobago Water and Trail Association (TWTA), Ricardo Alfred, said the decision to form the entity came before last month’s tragic incident, which claimed the life of seven-year-old Saydie Jogie.
“Different marine-type professionals decide, you know what? We need to come together and form this group to really bring some level of policy. If we have rogue members, we will report these people directly to the authorities and have their jet skis or whatever removed because you can’t operate if you don’t have it.”
Mr. Alfred emphasised that the association remains committed to operating within the law and in accordance with national regulations governing marine activity.
He added that the body has met and formally taken the decision not to operate at Pigeon Point or at any other location designated as a marine park.
“We have decided to respect the boundaries and stay out of the marine park, you know. I know that the public is very angry. I know that there is a lot of concern, so we are staying out of the park completely. We would respect the wishes and stay out of the park completely. We will ply our trade elsewhere so that the public is able to have more trust because they have to see some change.”
According to Mr. Alfred, the TWTA will continue to engage with stakeholders and regulators to ensure its operations are conducted responsibly and in the best interest of both the environment and the public.