AG seeking answers on demolition

Speaking with reporters during the tea break in the House of Representatives, Al-Rawi said neither Housing Minister Randall Mitchell, Agriculture Minister Clarence Rambharat, the Chief State Solicitor nor himself had any prior knowledge that the demolition would take place.

“It has not originated from ministerial, Cabinet or AG’s office,” he said. Noting this happened on May 15, the AG said, “In light of the severity of the action taken, I can confirm that I have been calling for the Commissioner of State Lands to meet with every single day since the 15th.” However he said the Commissioner has not responded to any of his requests for a meeting to date.

Told there could be legal action taken by one squatter, Al-Rawi said he was quite concerned because he,” would like to understand the action that was taken and where the advice to take that action came from.” He reminded reporters that he was the line minister to defend the State against any claim made against it.

Al-Rawi said it would be unusual for the Commissioner to act independently on these kinds of matters and this is why he is seeking clarity.