Minister: Walcott part of TT culture

Gadsby-Dolly was among those signing the condolence book for Walcott at the Parliament Chamber in St Lucia yesterday and she shared what she wrote with Sunday Newsday.

“I really just thanked Sir Derek for what he had done for Trinidad and Tobago on behalf of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.

Acknowledging that his work has been in many times a labour of love and really dedication and commitment to the literary arts and we honour him for that.” She reported that Cabinet had made a decision that the country should be represented at a time like this.

“Sir Derek was a Caribbean man. And I think to Trinidad and Tobago he was important.” She explained that Albert Laveau, director of the Trinidad Theatre Workshop (TTW) which was founded by Walcott in 1959, was brought as part of their delegation because the Government felt it important that they also be represented.

“(TTW is) a living embodiment of Sir Derek’s influence on the theatre landscape in Trinidad and Tobago.

So I think as a matter of respect and honour and acknowledgement of all that he has done for our country the Government thought it important that I be here.” On Thursday at the post-Cabinet media briefing it was announced that the TTW, whose building at Jerningham Avenue had been put up for sale, would be provided a State building at Newbold Street, St Clair at the nominal rent of $10 per year. Yesterday Gadsby-Dolly reported that she was contacted by members of the TTW about them holding an event in his honour and the ministry will be working with them. She also reported that NGC Bocas Lit Fest had expressed interest in doing an event to honour the late icon. At the entrance to the chamber a creole quadrille band, Mamai la Kay, performed up tempo music. Among the dignitaries in attendance at the viewing were St Lucia Governor General Dame Pearlette Louisy, St Lucia Prime Minister Allen Chastanet and members of the diplomatic corps based in St Lucia. Walcott’s longtime partner Sigrid Nama and his daughters Anna and Elizabeth were at the Chamber greeting visitors.