Minister of Rural Development and Local Government Haji Kazim Hosein delivered instruments of appointment to the new board of Directors for the Rural Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago (RDC), yesterday (January 2nd, 2018).
Minister Hosein congratulated the new members for taking up the mantle to serve the people of our beloved country and reminded them of their purpose at the State Enterprise saying, “I want to personally welcome each one of you to the team. As you are well aware, the Rural Development Company (RDC) plays a pivotal role in the development of rural communities across our country. Only last month, through RDC we opened a bridge in L’Anse Mitan which residents have been eagerly awaiting for over 60 years. This new installment will ensure that over 100 citizens receive the necessary goods and services. Each one of you play an important role towards the success of this company and fulfillment of the goals set out by the Government. We, at the Ministry look forward to working closely with you and envision that RDC will keep moving on an upward trajectory as a successful, service-oriented company”.
He continued by thanking the outgoing board for their contribution to the success of the enterprise and wished them well in their future endeavors. During Minister’s discussion with the newly installed board under the newly appointed Chairman, Mrs. Patricia Alexis, he reminded them of the Government’s vision and mandate to develop the rural communities across Trinidad through service delivery and good governance by putting people first.
The Minister further called on all Mayors and Chairmen of the 14 Municipal Corporations to be stalwarts in their respective Corporations saying, “Don’t sit back and wait for local government reform to happen. I encourage you to create avenues using the resources that you have now to do the work of the people. You are servants of the people and have a duty to get the job done. Local government reform will come to the Parliament very soon but you need to be prepared for this major step.” He urged members of Council to ensure that the services being provided by the Corporations benefit the burgesses, “As representatives of the people you must ensure that issues such as garbage collection, clearing of drains and minor watercourses, maintenance of cemeteries, and repairs to local roads are addressed, in a timely manner. Continuity is something much needed in all Corporations and this can be achieved by adopting a whole of corporation approach to everything that you do”.
We, at the Ministry remain committed and ready for the transition from the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government to its new portfolio of Ministry of Rural Development where we will be solely responsible for bringing the much needed goods and services to the rural areas across the country.