PANJIM: Though sounding disturbed over the current development of bifurcating North Goa Planning and Development Authority (NGPDA) into three, Deputy Speaker and NGPDA chairman Michael Lobo put up a brave front stating he has problems but Chief Minister is the deciding authority.
“Happy or not happy what can I do about it. Whatever is good for his MLA, CM should do and I am confident that Mr Parrikar will do what is best,” Lobo told Herald when asked for his reaction to TCP Minister Vijai Sardesai’s statement on PDA.
Lobo, who was also upset when he was denied a berth in the 12-member Cabinet after elections, said that he has spoken to the Chief Minister on the issue.
“I have told CM yesterday you decide in the interest of your MLA, I am already the chairman,” he said adding “CM has assured me that before taking any decision he would let me know if at all he is doing it.”
The deputy speaker felt that as of now nothing is on paper.
“This is all only talks going on right now and as far as I know from NGPDA, they are only bifurcating Taleigao and nothing else. Whoever is talking about three PDAs I do not know,” he stated.
He, however, admitted he has requested that Arpora-Nagoa and Parra be brought under the PDA.
“I have only requested the Town and Country Planning Minister to add Parra, Arpora and Nagoa into the planning area as I want to plan those villages. I don’t know about coastal areas that is in their mind. I have not consulted Vijai Sardesai on this. I have only spoken to CM on the existing NGPDA,” he stated.
Further, he said, he has no issues with whatever CM decides.
“I am a working person from morning till evening. If CM thinks I should not have any position than I have no issues. It’s his prerogative but I will still continue to work for the people till people themselves tell me you go home and sit now,” he explained.
