T&T government to give $2.45M for emancipation celebration

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago announced on Thursday that it will disburse $2.45 million for Emancipation celebrations in Port of Spain and in other parts of the country.

Minister of Arts and Multiculturalism Winston Peters confirmed that at the Post Cabinet media briefing.

He said the money will come from different ministries:

• $1million from his Ministry
• $500,000 from the Office of the Prime Minister
• $150,000 from the Ministry of Tourism of which $90,000 has already been given

He added the National Joint Action Committee (NJAC) will receive a half a million dollars and more than $300,000 will go to smaller groups around the country for the festivities.

The minister acknowledged that it's a little late but explained that the money had to be sourced before he made the commitment.

"I want to admit that I would have liked to have given ESC (Emancipation Support Committee) their money in a timelier manner because we know that the preparations take quite a bit, but...we had to find the money," Peters said.

He said there is a drainage problem at the requested location and it would be unwise to utilise that space in the rainy season. The said the committee agreed to use another venue in the Paddock area.

"We decided to help with the infrastructure which means we will put up the tents, help with infrastructure, whatever that is. So at the end of the day, not only are we giving them money, but we are going to be working with them in kind to have it done in a timely manner," Peters said.

He added, "So the festival can go on as we want it to. To say that Government was not supporting this. It's nothing. We were always supporting it."

Peters reiterated that it is Government's intention to support all festivals in Trinidad and Tobago.