A broader perspective is always gained when individuals travel abroad. Greater awareness of how the world operates, envisioning ways of doing things differently and even the opportunities to casually observe are some of the benefits that are derived because of travel. When individuals travel, they do so at their own expense and they are not accountable to anyone regarding their trips because they were on private business.

This editorial will address the issue of accountability when members of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) travel. We do not object to international travel by the THA because it broadens and builds local capacity. However, we strongly appeal to and encourage the THA to address the issue of accountability, which is essential to overseas travel. This is travel on the expense of the people of Trinidad and Tobago; as a result, such public accountability is demanded.

Whey de money gone? is a familiar saying to many of us; it is a question which is asked time and time again. The people of Trinidad, and more so Tobago, have a right to an answer. Currently, members of the Division of Tourism and Transportation are on a road show in Scandinavia. Recently, the Division of Community Development and Culture returned from New York after attending Fashion Week. Members from the Divisions of Tourism, Finance and Community Development went to Canada during the month of July. Additionally, the Division of Agriculture, Marine Affairs, Marketing and the Environment took a trip to Cuba and Jamaica. Again, we do not object to travel, but we must ask the question: how much money was spent on these trips?

While we cannot measure the possible lasting benefits and value of these trips only in dollars and cents for a small island developing state, we must ensure that we are getting value for money. The tangible benefits from these trips must be reported and the financial cost to the taxpayers of Trinidad and Tobago must be calculated. Furthermore, the intangible benefits of these trips must be sought and quantified, along with a qualitative narrative so these trips do not become end alls.

The point is that all of this travelling must amount to more than individual benefits with little to no accountable. We cannot stress the importance of the transfer of knowledge because it provides the foundation and basis for justification when tax dollars are spent.

The Tobago House of Assembly must go beyond the press releases to providing concrete data, hard facts and next steps. These trips cannot amount to yearly getaways wherever the next world travel market is held. They must be done in a systematic way that yields far-reaching benefit to our developing state. The first step is financial accountability followed by actions of transparency, where we see the transfer to knowledge that ultimately benefits the population.

More here:

What should happen after the THA travels?