Minister: Court matter will not affect Carnival

Addressing the post-Cabinet news conference at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, Gadsby Dolly said, “I would like the public to know that this in no way affects Carnival. Everything has been put in place for Carnival and we are expecting a very successful and enjoyable event.”

Based on the turnout at calypso tents and the various panyards so far, Gadsby Dolly stated, “It seems Carnival is being well enjoyed by the public and we expect this matter, whatever the outcome, will not affect that to any extent and we look forward to a wonderful Carnival.”

On the issue of allocation of money to various Carnival stakeholders, the minister said, “There will never be a time that everybody is happy with everything, because the world is not perfect.” Gadsby Dolly observed that even in better economic circumstances, there are those who are, “not satisfied at that time either.”

She said the nation’s current economic circumstances require people to make the most of what is available to them. Gadsby Dolly said people need to be open to change and, “restructuring of the way we do things.” She added that Government stands ready to support Chutney Soca and all the different genres, “as we go forward.”

Speaking later, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Stuart Young said, “government has not given money to the organisers for prize money.” He added it was up to organisers of particular events and not Government, to decide “as an enterprise” what quantum of money is allocated towards prizes. Regarding the building currently occupied by the Trinidad Theatre Workshop (TTW), Gadsby Dolly said, “At this time there is no crisis to be averted.”

Indicating there were conversations with Public Administration and Communications Minister Maxie Cuffie about identifying new accommodations for the TTW, she explained, “The issue is that building is up for sale. It is not that they are being put out of the building, they do have a lease until this June.” She said there is no issue at this time regarding the use of the TTW’s current location.