A campaign to boycott Trinidad and Tobago products is now underway as the backlash against comments made by Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her statement that the twin-island nation would have to get something in return for helping Caribbean neighbours affected by Hurricane Tomas continues.



“We will have to look at ways in which we would be able to assist. But you would recall my comments earlier this year, when I said there must be some way in which Trinidad and Tobago would also benefit,” she said at a press conference, adding that she would have to hold discussions with members of her Cabinet before deciding on what assistance could be provided.



These comments have not only drawn the condemnation of the opposition leader of that country, but of some members of the region who on Facebook, Twitter and through BlackBerry broadcast messages urged a boycott of Trinidad and Tobago products.

The BlackBerry broadcast message, which has been making the rounds, says, “Join me and many of my friends in the “BUY NOTHING MADE IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO” campaign. This is a result of the TNT PM’s open statement to the media saying she will not give any assistance to Caricom countries affected by Hurricane Tomas unless it is to the benefit of Trinidad. I wonder if she is aware of the amount of products we purchase daily that is made in Trinidad. PLEASE JOIN AND PASS IT ON. “



The campaign is also on the popular social networking website Facebook, with a St. Lucian who declined to give her name saying, “Seriously, that was simply heartless and plain selfish!!! We need to show her what can happen when serious, God-fearing and caring people unite. I think we (Saint Lucia) import a lot of snacks from T&T, I will try my best to avoid buying these things. Yes my taste buds will miss them but on the bright side I'll loose a few inches. Come on guys and join me!!”