Carnival consultations begin with public participation

The Ministry of Culture and Community Development has begun consultations under its initiative titled “The Blueprint of Carnival”, with the first session held at the VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah on Monday.

Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin and Parliamentary Secretary Dr Narindra Roopnarine are leading the process to collect data from citizens, stakeholders and Carnival participants to guide policy and planning.

The first session focused on the business of steelpan. Participants discussed safety and security in panyards and event spaces, access to facilities, transportation for bands and patrons, medical benefits related to steelpan, marketing of events, and stakeholder engagement.

Benjamin said the consultations will inform decisions on Carnival and steelpan. She said the process will include input from citizens, cultural practitioners and stakeholders.

The initiative includes public consultations and an online survey to gather views from nationals, diaspora, visitors and participants in Trinidad and Tobago and abroad. The data will be used for decision-making and expansion of Carnival activities.

The Ministry is working with the National Carnival Commission, Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation, Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association and Trinidad and Tobago Promoters Association.

Consultations continue at the Queen’s Park Savannah from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on March 17, 18 and 25, and at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts on March 23 and 24.

A Tobago consultation is to be announced.

The public can also complete the online survey.