NAPA Drawing Criticism

With the recent opening of NAPA the debate surrounding the facility has been re-kindled. Vocal opponents in the media, encouraged by a small group of biased local contractors working together with others of similar financial and political interest, have opposed NAPA on the grounds that it is unnecessary and costly. While there are a host of concerns facing the country and a long list of potential development projects, there is little to no consensus about the prioritization of these projects. Many recent state-sponsored construction projects such as the airport upgrade have been effective contributions to the country’s infrastructure. While the case for other projects – like water and infrastructure, are strong, so is the case for the education and cultural perception of the nation. Fickle to some, the reality is that no nation will be accepted as a fully developed, global contender without the presence of cultural centers. These factors not only improve the general image of Trinidad to foreigners, but they serve a functional purpose to educate younger generations. Attractions such as NAPA provide a world-class stage on which to receive foreign dignitaries, financiers and businessman. These are exactly the kind of people that need to feel welcome and comfortable in Trinidad if we are to continue to be regional leaders. To be honest I believe we are the only nation in the region even pursuing similar projects. However minor and implicit their benefit may seem to some, these cultural centers place the image of our country at the top of the region and amongst the world’s best.

Perhaps the most disappointing issue is that much of this unfair criticism has been drawn not out of genuine concern, but rather out of greed. Construction executives were vocal opponents of NAPA not because they had a serious grievance with its necessity, but rather the fact that their companies were not awarded contracts for the construction of the project. These types of attacks are vastly unproductive. If these executives seek to become serious leaders in our country they should conduct themselves more responsibly and seek to foster honest dialogues in the interest of the people.