Old Education Ministry Bldg now being used by GEB

“Around the time, when the Ministry of Education vacated this compound there was a change in the provision of security services to the Office of the Prime Minister across the road, with the Guard and Emergency Branch of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service being mandated to provide the security for the Office of the Prime Minister,” said the statement.

“Accordingly, one of the buildings on the compound was temporarily provided to the Guard and Emergency Branch whilst another appropriate building is being located to house these officers and the necessary support services. This arrangement is a temporary one.” Cuffie has noted the various claims to the property. He said the property has not yet been handed over to his Ministry, even as the Ministry of Education is still evacuating the buildings there.

“The settled policy for the allocation of the State’s limited property resources is that a request is made by the line Ministry to the Property and Real Estate Services Division (PRESD), through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration and Communications,” said Cuffie’s statement.

“After considering the request, PRESD makes a recommendation to the Minister which, if he supports, it is taken before Cabinet for approval.” Cuffie met Education Minister, Anthony Garcia, and the duo will meet officials from Queen’s Royal College (QRC) early in the New Year regarding their interest in the property.