In this February 16, 2021 file photo traditional mas characters entertain the public outside KFC Independence Square, Port of Spain as a tribute to Carnival which did not take place owing to the covid19 pandemic. - JEFF K MAYERS
Trinidad and Tobago’s private sector is willing, but not altogether prepared, to support A Taste of Carnival and other Carnival-related events and activities.
On January 19, the government announced its approval for Carnival-type events to be held at approved venues for the vaccinated. Then, on February 3, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts announced $15 million had been allocated to the National Carnival Commission (NCC) to host its events as well as $5 million in sponsorship support to smaller, separately promoted safe-zone events.
Since the budget announcement, Carnival stakeholders have been calling on the private sector to supplement the NCC budget as it was much less than was hoped.
When Sunday Newsday spoke to some members of the private sector, which has sponsored Carnival events over the years, most expressed willingness to do so this year, but said they were still in the process of making arrangements.
Simon Hardy, CEO of Prestige Holdings, said so far KFC sponsored last Friday's illuSions Black 2 Blue, and will do the same for Soca Love Story on February 19, Naparima Fete on February 24, and D Pan Man on March 1.
Replies
When ah franchise holder from ah Yankee multinational corporation controlling T&T carnival events as "sponsors", yuh cyar deny de fact dat capitalism take over. We cyar even have ah national celebration witout foreign interests controlling de wholw show.
How many BILLIONS the PNM GOVERNMENT pour into CARNIVAL over decades and the CARNIVAL STAKEHOLDERS still stretching their hands BEGGING FOR MORE MONEY -- TODAY.
How many HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS poured into PAN TRINBAGO and BEVERLEY still begging corporations for handouts to produce a little Taste of Carnival -- TODAY.
If you follow the LOCAL POLITICS -- CHINA will be running the LOCAL CARNIVAL SOON!!!