Sinanan: File sent to AG

Works and Transport Minister Rohan Sinanan yesterday disclosed the questionable acquisition of a building identified for a licensing office in Arima will be investigated. In his contribution to the budget debate in the Senate, Sinanan said this building was purchased for $27 million under the former People’s Partnership (PP) government. He said a file in his ministry said the building was later deemed unfit and earmarked for demolition. However, Sinanan continued, “a Cabinet note went without including that in it.”

According to Sinanan, the file also showed a valuation on the building at the time of purchase put its price at $18 million. He said the file also showed the bank was going to sell the building for $40 million. Sinanan said what was even more frightening was there were plans to build a new structure on that site for $109 million. “That file has gone to the AG’s office. We will wait to see what will happen,” he said.

Sinanan also said no payments will be made on certain land acquisitions for the Solomon Hochoy Highway Extension project until they are examined by the Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs. He said in one case, the value of a parcel of land went from $7 million to $67 million. “This government is going to have none of that,” Sinanan declared. Referring to the Toco to Valencia highway, Sinanan said the National Infrastructure Development Company (Nidco), “has nothing to hide” and all Nidco-awarded contracts can withstand scrutiny. He said it was unfortunate the TT Transparency Institute, declined an invitation by Nidco to learn about its procurement process.

Sinanan recalled the Curepe Interchange almost tumbled the PP because, “everybody had their horse in the race.”

Responding to a remark from Opposition Senator Khadijah Ameen, Sinanan reminded her of a Hindu saying which meant, “I come with nothing. I go with nothing.”

He said this project will be properly done under the People’s National Movement (PNM). When Ameen predicted the PNM would call general elections before 2020, Sinanan replied, “Your judgement is next month.” Looking at Opposition senators, Sinanan quipped, “I don’t know how many of you will be here after that.”

He said while Cabinet recently approved an increase in the highway speed limit from 80 to 100 km/h, his ministry recently acquired nine new laser speed measuring devices. The minister said this will be to remind motorists that, “100 means no more than 100,” when the new speed limit is implemented.