Young: Persad-Bissessar attacks me to seek relevance

MINISTER of National Security Stuart Young is unfazed by the Opposition’s pending no-confidence motion against him and said its leader, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, was trying to use him in a bid to seek political relevance.

Persad-Bissessar said on Monday that Young did not have the power to extend the stay of Venezuelan migrants.

Persad-Bissessar had alleged the exemption process to enter Trinidad and Tobago during the pandemic lockdown was riddled with "discrimination, inequality and unfairness," while an influx of Venezuelan migrants continues.

On Wednesday the Opposition justified a censure motion due in Parliament, by alleging poor management of migration and border control by Young.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Young said Persad-Bissessar had once held the post of prime minister but now struggles for relevance.

“Even those outside of the political gayelle are openly stating that Mrs Persad Bissessar is no longer relevant.”

Young said it was “downright shameful” that Persad-Bissessar as senior counsel, was not seized of the laws of TT.

“The borders of TThave been legally closed since March 2020 based on the advice of our public health experts. This measure is a pillar of the public's protection in the face of a global pandemic (covid19.)

“The closure of the borders is legal and done in accordance with our laws.”

Young marvelled at the time and energy the Opposition spends on him.

“They have even resorted to lies and misinformation as their usual tools of trade when referring to me.”

He said the Opposition motion attacking him was simply part of its continued misconceived and desperate plan.

Civic-minded and right-thinking citizens, he argued, would wonder why Persad Bissessar and the UNC were so focused on him "and come to their own conclusions."

Meanwhile, he said, “I will continue to stay true to my oath of office and carry out my duty without fear or favour, malice or ill-will.”