State of Emergency not necessary

Manning conceded however, that the question of using security cameras in Trinidad and Tobago had now arisen.

He said Government would have to make an assessment of the need for it, and the extent to which it would want to use this device.

Manning noted that even in the most protected democracies, like the US and the UK, there were terrorist attacks.

Manning yesterday slammed UNC Senator Wade Mark for disclosing details of the gas lines under the Red House, saying that it was highly irresponsible. He was speaking at a post-Cabinet news conference. "What was the objective of making a statement like that?" Manning asked.

Mark had stated that any mad man could pass and throw a match or explosive device and blow up Parliament. He then proceded to give information about the gas lines.

Manning said he did not propose to increase the security in Parliament as a result of this statement, since he did not wish to turn this country into a police state.

He said the security arrangements for the Parliament since 1990 had been quite tight and sophisticated.

Manning also described Panday’s statement that the detonation of a bomb in Port-of-Spain was home-grown terrorism and the suggestion that there was a link between the PNM and terrorism, as "typical Panday, irresponsible and grossly out of order."

In response to questions, Manning stated that it did not appear that the detonation of a bomb in Port-of-Spain had any international connection. Though, he added, that this statement might be premature.

He also said he had seen no expression of concern from the international community.