Minister Griffith discusses security plans for Carnival 2015 with NCC
October 10, 2014:
The Minister of National Security, Senator the Honourable Gary Griffith, met with officials of the National Carnival Commission (NCC) on Wednesday 8thOctober 2014, to have preliminary discussions on issues surrounding Security during the 2015 Carnival period.
While it was agreed that security during Carnival 2014 was a success, Minister Griffith committed to work closer with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force and Law Enforcement agencies of the country and the NCC, to significantly enhance and improve the security arrangements for the festivities in 2015.
At the meeting, specific concerns were discussed about the following:
Security risks involving minors:
The Minister said data revealed that consumption of alcohol by young people during J’Ouvert resulted in their involvement in physical altercations and misbehaviour. In this regard, measures will be adopted to curb the consumption of alcohol among young people.
Banning of the use of Glass Bottles:
The meeting explored the possibility of banning the use of glass bottles for masqueraders on Carnival Monday and Tuesday. This will include liaising with all relevant stakeholders with regard to distribution and sale of drinks in glass bottles.
Traffic Arrangements:
Discussions were also held on finding better mechanisms to cope with and eliminate traffic congestion for bands and motorists in and out of Port-of-Spain. This would include diminishing traffic congestion from Carnival Saturday to Carnival Tuesday night.
These meetings will continue leading up to Carnival 2015, to coordinate the efforts of all relevant authorities to provide a safe, secure and comfortable Carnival 2015 for citizens and foreigners in Trinidad and Tobago.
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Marcia Hope
Director – Corporate Communications Unit