Dear Editor,

Trinidad and Tobago carnival allows for introspection, analysis, and planning for the way ahead.

This carnival, as with many in the past, brought out the innovativeness of the people. The stages were bigger, better designed and the venues for the fetes were well constructed in short periods of time.

Preparing for one major fete brings into play electricians, plumbers, riggers, carpenters, and a host of miscellaneous labourers. Also included are security personnel, gatekeepers, entertainers, bartenders, and food preparation personnel. Altogether they operate like clockwork to produce an event that is reproduced at several venues, demonstrating the talent of the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

For the carnival parade there are the many trucks retrofitted to become mobile bars, music centres, toilet facilities, and support services for the bands. Carnival as a single event engages a wide sector of the various trades and businesses, from food production to wirebenders and costume makers.

The indirect beneficiaries of this event include hoteliers, car rental companies, wholesale suppliers of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and security companies. Despite the influx of tourists and the foreign exchange they inject into the country, despite the fact that flights are usually sold out during this period, there are still individuals who would like to see the end of carnival or, at the very least, no government participation in the festivities.

I find it difficult to see how one activity that benefits so many can be seen in a negative economic light. Instead, I would like to see more strategic governmental intervention. I cannot understand, for example, how the Government, including the local government bodies, do not prepare for the thousands that would parade on the streets of the communities that host the celebration. There should be areas strategically set up to accommodate parking for a fee. There should be portable toilet facilities at almost every street corner. It is disgusting that many are forced to urinate on the walls of people’s properties as there are no visible toilet facilities to accommodate the many spectators and mas players.

Another very pleasing development of the carnival is the involvement of young entrepreneurs. Many of the event owners were, in fact, young people of all races coming up with very innovative ways to attract people to their events. Moreover, the event allowed us to see people of all races and classes partying together. It tells us about what is possible when we look beyond the artificial barriers that seek to separate our people.

If there is one major lesson to be learnt from the carnival, it is that the people of Trinidad and Tobago have the talent, the innovative ability, and the spirit of unity that is necessary for a peaceful and prosperous coexistence. Let us continually work towards building a better nation. Let the period of lent prepare us to face the challenges of tomorrow together.

Steve Alvarez

Trinidad and Tobago

bilcoa@hotmail.com