00:00On Sunday, Minister in the Ministry of Housing, Philip Alexander, took to his Facebook account
00:05blasting opposition supporters over the condemnation of the Zones of Special Operations Bill 2026.
00:12He said while $3 trillion have passed through the country,
00:16white-collar criminals are responsible for how people in vulnerable areas in Port of Spain and
00:21environs are living. But he didn't stop there, as he took a turn at the representing entities
00:26of the business and manufacturing sectors.
00:30Ask the stunt artists in that PLM balizet house, artists construct. Ask them. The Trantobago Manufacturers Association,
00:38the Chambers of Commerce, riddled with criminals. The laws in this country were written by criminals to protect criminals.
00:46Well, President of the TNT Manufacturers Association, Dr. Dale Parsons, says the country has long established
00:52and proven mechanisms in place to treat with allegations of wrongdoing in both private and public institutions.
01:00He states, quote,
01:01We strongly encourage anyone with credible information to utilize these appropriate judicial and
01:06investigative processes, ensuring matters are resolved in a timely and efficient manner.
01:13Engaging these channels promotes the transparency and due process that every citizen and entity in our proud country
01:20deserves and respects.
01:22The TTMA is highlighting its work as being a pillar of economic growth and diversification in the country for 70 years
01:36and is now contributing to 18 percent of national gross domestic product.
01:41In this regard, Dr. Parsons says, quote,
01:44Undermining confidence in the sector does a disservice to national development at a time when collaboration is most needed.
01:52End quote.
01:52Meanwhile, the TTMA is expressing appreciation over government's objective to double exports from the local non-energy manufacturing sector,
02:02which the TTMA says falls in alignment with its own strategic focus.
02:07It also notes the government's plan to revitalize the energy sector and welcomes the initiatives to do so.
02:13However, the TTMA says, quote,
02:14End quote.
02:42The TTMA says manufacturing is the second largest employer after the government with about 50,000 permanent employees and 10,000 casual workers.
02:52The association states that it will continue to work hand in hand with the government and other stakeholders
02:57and to do its part toward the strengthening of export competitiveness,
03:02expansion of market access for local manufacturers and increased forex earnings.
03:07The TTMA further cements its position by calling this plan a steadfast commitment.
03:13Alicia Boucher, TV6 News.
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