Trouble with Point Fortin MPs

FRIDAY’S  resignation of Point Fortin MP Larry Achong as Labour Minister from Prime Minister Patrick Manning’s Cabinet seems to continue a pattern of political volatility with parliamentary members from that constituency.

1971- Following that year’s general elections when the PNM won all 36 seats, now deceased former PNM Point Fortin MP Roy Richardson crossed the floor to become Opposition Leader.

1991- Dr Vincent Lasse wins Point Fortin for the PNM in that year’s general elections.

1995- Lasse retains the Point Fortin seat in that year’s general elections which ends 17-17-2. The NAR joins the UNC placing the PNM in Opposition. Lasse and fellow PNM MP Dr Rupert Griffith cross the floor to join the UNC.

1999- Opposition Leader Patrick Manning loses a court matter challenging the constitutionality of Lasse and Griffith crossing the floor.

2000- Lasse loses the Point Fortin seat to Achong but UNC wins 19-16-1. President Arthur NR Robinson challenges PM Basdeo Panday on appointment of Lasse and six other defeated UNC candidates as Government Senators.

2001- Lasse loses again to Achong at polls which end in 18-18 deadlock. PNM takes office after Manning sworn in as Prime Minister. Achong appointed Labour Minister.

2002- Achong defeats Lasse for the third time as PNM wins general elections 20-16. Achong retains Labour portfolio.

2003- Reported rift between Manning and Achong over moves to transfer San Fernando City Corporation CEO Marlene Coudray to the Point Fortin Borough Corporation.  Both men dismiss reports of split. Achong retains Labour portfolio in November 7 Cabinet reshuffle.

2004- Further reports of division between Manning and Achong over labour problems at Atlantic LNG and other issues. Achong resigns as Labour Minister on March 12 but vows to remain as Point Fortin MP.