Unsupported stadium claim

Therefore, I am not surprised at the sensational statement by an opposition politician that 15,000 lives could be at risk when the Brain Lara stadium is opened next month because “major questions remain outstanding on the safety of the structure.” However, I am surprised to see Newsday fall below its usual high standard by giving the claim such prominence on the front page of yesterday’s issue. Newsday’s action gives exposure to the politician’s unsubstantiated claim and may help panic people from ever entering the stadium.

Granted your report carries a statement from Udecott that all remedial works have been done to the structure, but the damage has been done by the manner you have highlighted the politician’s statement. I have been involved in the construction industry all my working life and was a witness at the Uff Commission of Inquiry when the structural integrity of the building was discussed. However, I have heard no current concerns expressed by industry experts about the stadium’s structural integrity since Udecott undertook remedial works.

I am disappointed that Newsday has given such exposure to this uncorroborated claim that might panic members of the public from utilising this expensive facility that was built at taxpayers’ expense.

VICTOR HART via email