1 week ago
4
Sascha Wilson
Senior Reporter
The Trinidad and Tobago Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has confirmed that payments to garbage disposal contractors in South Trinidad are expected to be made today.
HDC confirmed this yesterday following complaints from contractors, particularly those servicing Golconda Phase 2, about delayed payments this year. One contractor said payments were supposed to be made within 30 days of online invoice submissions, but he has only received payment once this year.
He complained that he was forced to use personal funds to pay workers and other expenses, creating a financial burden.
“The HDC delinquency is causing hardship for me and my employees. I am owing rent and financial institutions with loans taken out to pay for the vehicle.” He also criticised HDC for giving no timeline for payment, apart from saying “funds not available.”
“I am considering legal options now. In the interim I still continue working but without pay. Garbage disposal is essential. But we need to be paid like everybody. Like PNM or UNC same problems for payment. I think I am heading to the High Court.”
In a statement yesterday, HDC acknowledged the delays, saying, “The delays stemmed have from internal processing challenges, which we have identified and are currently addressing through improved coordination between departments and streamlined payment procedures. As a result, payments are expected to be made to contractors by tomorrow, Thursday, August 14, 2025.”
HDC also acknowledged the frustration caused by payment delays, stating it “sincerely appreciate the continued service of our contractors under these challenging circumstances.” The corporation added that delayed payments have occurred in the southern regions, but were not widespread across all regions.
“The HDC values its contractors as essential partners in maintaining healthy and clean communities and remain committed to resolving these matters swiftly and fairly,” the statement concluded.
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