RECOMMIT TO OUR NATIONAL WATCHWORDS: DISCIPLINE, PRODUCTION AND TOLERANCE On August 30th, 1962, Dr. Eric Williams, the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago articulated his vision for what was then an infant nation on the cusp of a new journey. Discipline, Production and Tolerancewere the watchwords bequeathed to a newly independent nation meant to reflect the guiding principles and values in the development of the country and its people. As we celebrate the 55th anniversary of our Independence, the Employers Consultative Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ECA) wishes to acknowledge the substantial achievements of our nation and its people in a relatively short timeframe. While many countries are torn apart by wars, social and political unrest and the tyranny of its rulers, Trinidad and Tobago remains a stable, vibrant nation with much potential and even more to offer on the world stage. Having been in existence for over fifty seven (57) years, the ECA was especially proud to witness the birth of our nation and the indelible mark that our small, but resourceful country continues to stamp in the annals of history. For this, we should all be proud and celebrate our democracy with much jubilation. However, the ECA is calling for a recommitment to these powerful National Watchwords, especially as we continue to navigate extremely harsh economic realities. Opportunities abound for all of us as leaders of institutions, civil society, and citizens of our beloved nation to embrace a collaborative, highly respectful approach to solving our problems, whatever they may be. This must be supported by a keen sense of purpose to rebuilding the trust and confidence in our institutions, many of which have taken a severe beating over the years and are in urgent need of transformation and a recommitment to accountability and responsibility. As a start, we must instil and display a commitment to the moral and spiritual values that seem to have evaded us and work together to build a path to long-term growth and sustainability. This cannot be achieved by any one stakeholder acting alone. Remember, together we aspire; together we achieve. The ECA extends best wishes to Trinidad and Tobago on this celebration of our 55th year of Independence and affirms its commitment to our nation-building efforts, with full confidence that the best is yet to come! -END- For further information, kindly contact: Ronald Ramlogan Public Relations and Research Department Telephone: 675-9388 ext. 242 | E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
