Tancoo Faces Opposition Challenge Over Tobago’s 2027 Budget Allocations

Finance Minister Dave Tancoo defended lower 2027 allocations in the Tobago House of Assembly’s $2.738 billion budget, including an 80% drop in tourism and hospitality support from $5 million to $1 million. He said 2026 funding covered one-off initiatives and liabilities, and assured Parliament that Tobago Carnival and other festivals will still be adequately funded.

Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo admitted an error in Tobago’s 2027 budget after the Tobago Regional Health Authority was allocated about $239.7 million, far below its usual roughly $700 million. Opposition MPs warned the 68% cut could worsen already strained health services, but Tancoo said the THA and Finance Ministry would ensure the TRHA gets enough funding before the mid-year review.

Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo said the Tobago House of Assembly’s $188.4 million increase in general administration funding will cover salary arrears for public officers after negotiations conclude. He said the money will also pay current salaries, including a raise effective January 1, 2026, and support three new divisions in the THA.

The Tobago House of Assembly’s legislative buildings are set for major electrical, plumbing and structural upgrades, and officials are seeking temporary space for staff and the chamber while work is done. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo also said the 2027 travel budget is only an estimate, with spending expected to change based on official duties and conferences.