Statement by Prime Minister on Republic Day 2009

Message to the Nation by the Honourable Patrick Manning, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on the Thirty-Third Anniversary of Republic Day of Trinidad and Tobago

My Fellow Citizens
As we celebrate the thirty-third anniversary of our status as a Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, like the rest of the world, is facing the challenge of an economic slowdown, brought about by the recent near collapse of the global financial economy. Very early, the government took measures to protect our country from the adverse effects of this international crisis. Our decisions were very effective and whilst the return to acceptable levels of growth is not quite complete, we are on the way once again.

However, we are not there yet. The global crisis is by no means over and could easily slip back into recessionary conditions which would affect Trinidad and Tobago and every other country on earth. We must move carefully forward, exercising restraint, spending but saving, working harder and being more disciplined in all areas of our lives.

In short, we must live up to the responsibilities of being the Republic that we celebrate today. In the present circumstances, we have a very stark reminder of the responsibility that came when we, very appropriately, consolidated our sovereignty by becoming a Republic. It is we and we alone who can build or destroy ourselves. There is no one out there to stretch a hand when we stumble. A Republic like Trinidad and Tobago must be able to pull itself up by its own inner strength when visited by adversity. Without that capacity, the significance of self-determination is considerably diminished.

I know that our country is capable. We have had our trials and emerged with greater strength. All citizens have always put their shoulders to the wheel for the revitalization of our society. I have no doubt that they will again rise to the occasion.

The government will play its part. Our new budget demonstrates the prioritization, restraint, and creative allocations that are the product of the discernment needed for these times. We will maintain a momentum as we make this crossing.

We will ensure the continuing growth of the economy through diversification, increased investment and enlarged markets. We will ensure high levels of employment and the availability of opportunity to all citizens for growth and development. With our revenues, we will educate the children, improve the health services, ensure housing for all, further reduce poverty, strengthen our communities and enhance the security and stability of the nation. We will preserve our constitutionally guaranteed freedoms and fundamental human rights. We will join with like-minded countries to ensure that this present global situation produces an international system that is characterized by greater justice and equality. In all these ways, we will indeed measure up to the responsibility of being the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

On behalf of the government, I extend greetings to our citizens on the celebration of Republic Day 2009. May Almighty God Bless our Nation.