Smith talks Tobago, CPL

Speaking prior to a news conference at which Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley expressed disappointment over Smith, the Sport Minister said, “I was not in Tobago from the 19 to the 22 (of May).” He said he received an invitation from the THA to attend its annual sport awards at the Magdalena Grand Beach Resort last Sunday.

Smith said he arrived in Tobago at 5 pm last week Saturday, attended the event and also held discussions.

He left Tobago the following Monday at noon and returned to his office. Smith said he visited the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet although this was not part of his official agenda. Smith indicated that ministry and Sport Company officials made a site visit to the stadium because of upgrade work planned for that facility.

Smith also said discussions with the CPL are ongoing regarding the final being held in TT. He said Cabinet will take a decision when the matter comes before it.

House Speaker Bridgid Annisette George disallowed two questions from Princes Town MP Barry Padarath, in which he alleged that CNC3 and the Trinidad Guardian newspaper reported Smith as saying the final would be held in TT, at a cost of $1 million.