PNM Tobago Council Manifesto 2017 THE PNM TOBAGO COUNCIL'S 2017 MANIFESTO | Page 8

A Message from

THE POLITICAL LEADER

TOBAGO COUNCIL OF THE PNM

The underlying premise is to organise and mobilise human , financial and technical resources in ways that benefit the people of Tobago .
As a people , we must recommit and rededicate ourselves to the reawakening of those characteristics and values that define the “ Tobago Personality ” – values of selflessness , equity , integrity , hard work , volunteerism , openness and accountability .
Let us create a buzz of excitement demonstrating these characteristics as we go about our daily lives , building our communities throughout the island .
As we continue the process of ensuring a fair , stable and equitable society for all Tobagonians , much attention will be placed on rural development in East and North Tobago and on the differently abled .
In the short and medium term , the Tobago economy will be fuelled by the ‘ natural gas ’ of tourism , agriculture , light manufacturing and services with appropriate to the communities . This approach provides tremendous hope and a clear vision for the development and empowerment of our communities . This will facilitate entrepreneurship , job creation , the reduction of poverty levels , improvement in the standard of living and the quality of life of all especially our young men and women .
I therefore visualise a Tobago where :
• Families want the best for their children and are willing to sacrifice to provide them with the best opportunities
• Small and micro-enterprises are willing to roll up their sleeves and take a chance at job creation
• Our senior citizens who have worked hard throughout their lives , while enjoying peaceful retirement in their communities are willing to act as role models and mentors to the young men and women in their communities
• Established businesses shift gears as they diversify and expand their portfolios to deepen their corporate social responsibility by fostering closer alignment with community groups and sporting organisations
• Our differently-abled residents increasingly become part of the mainstream where their special needs are recognised and provided for
• We engender kinder , gentler , more caring communities that value family as their bedrock . In this connection , I see the resurgence of the spirit of volunteerism and benevolence , traits and values currently latent in the Tobagonian personality . After all , our society has been anchored by the principle that service to humanity is the best way of life .
• We once again demonstrate our capacity for loyalty , patriotism and pride , as we stand ready and willing to serve our island .
As Political Leader of the Tobago PNM , I am proud to present to you twelve outstanding candidates . Each is a shining light in their community and each reflects the qualities and values that will make Tobago stronger . Furthermore , these candidates possess the temperament and capability to perform at the highest levels as elected representatives of our people . We will earn your social contract .
May the good Lord richly bless and keep you , even as he blesses our island and nation . I thank you .

Kelvin V . Charles

Political Leader Tobago Council of the PNM
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