PADARATH CALLS ON GOVT DECLARE CARNIVAL 2018 A TRIBUTE TO MAX
Princes Town MP, Barry Padarath said that he was deeply saddened and disappointed that the Cabinet and Government failed to accede to the wishes of the family of former President George Maxwell Richards to have Carnival 2018 declared in his honour.
Padarath said that he waited to see whether the Cabinet would have made an announcement today since today is the last sitting of the Cabinet where a decision could have been made before the reign of the Merry Monarch.
The family of former President Richards suggested that Government could have honoured Richards who was a prolific masquerader and patron of the arts, by declaring Carnival 2018 as a tribute to his contribution and his larger than life personality.
Padarath said that the government was totally insensitive, callous and uncaring by their silence on this matter. He called for the Dimanche Gras and the parade of the bands on Monday and Tuesday to commence with a minute of silence in honour of the former President as well as for the numerous artistes and bands to recognize Richards.
The Princes Town MP stated that a pattern was developing with this Rowley led PNM administration where they are disrespecting the memories of former leaders. The MP stated that similar to what occurred when Former Prime Minister Patrick Manning passed away, there has been no effort to recognize Richards despite the public suggestions made by his family that will cost this country little financially but will be etched in the minds and hearts of Trinbagonians.
Padarath further suggested that the national Schools Calypso Competition could have been used as a good avenue to promote the work of former President Richards among the young people of Trinidad and Tobago, however he believed the government lacked vision, innovation and compassion.