CNC 3 blanked for not observing protocol

Other media personnel (including Newsday) present were allowed to cover the brief ceremony as all requirements were met by them.

The advance submission of names of media personnel to the Office of the President is one of several protocols implemented following last month’s controversial attendance of Sea Lots community leader Cedric “Burkie” Burke at the swearing in of Port of Spain South MP Marlene McDonald as Public Utilities Minister, despite Burke’s name not being on the list.

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley advised President Anthony Carmona to revoke McDonald’s appointment on July 2 and later highlighted Burke’s attendance as the reason for firing her.

Following an internal investigation into the breach of security protocol in Burke being allowed to attend the swearing in, new arrangements were implemented at the Office of the President