Vasquez acts as EFCL chairman

Education Minister Anthony Garcia made this announcement yesterday evening after meeting with EFCL board members at the Education Ministry in Port of Spain.

Last Friday, Piggott resigned as chairman of the EFCL board of directors citing family commitments and “the protection of my reputation and family name.” Garcia summoned the remaining members to a mandatory meeting yesterday to discuss among other issues, allegations made concerning the procurement practices of the company.

During the meeting, according to sources, Garcia told directors he was disappointed over several issues including operations of the board, reporting lines not being adhered to, retrenchment exercises, slow pace of construction work at schools and the process to be undertaken when emergency repairs necessitates schools being closed.

Garcia also noted that the ministry should be notified in writing of any changes to upper management of the company.

He also expressed disappointment over a lack of confidentiality among staff members of the EFCL.

Vasquez, in his capacity as acting chairman, pledged to revamp the entire reporting process and liaise directly with the ministry’s executive team on any staff change.

Garcia also hinted that significant changes would be made to the board and senior management of the EFCL which may involve additions to the board and some members of management having to revert to previous positions.

When contacted yesterday, Garcia said the appointment of persons to state boards is a matter for Cabinet.

“Obviously, with Mr Piggott’s resignation there is an immediate vacancy and there is still another vacancy we need to fill on the board because one person did not take up his appointment,” he said.

Board member Clyde Permell, the only new change to the board, was appointed by Vasquez.

“We spoke about school repairs and buildings and so on.

There have be no other changes thus far,” he said.

Asked if he was concerned at the minister’s hint that there may be changes to the board, Permell said he had no idea about any changes, but is not worried about his position.

“I am not concerned about any changes to the board.

“Once the board does what it is required to do and once anyone who comes on does what he or she has to do, there should be no problems,” Permell said.