(UPDATED) Dennis: No goat race in Buccoo this Easter weekend

Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis has revealed there will be no goat racing in Buccoo, Tobago during the Easter weekend.

Goat racing in Buccoo is a highlight of the Easter weekend. The popular event has traditionally been held on Easter Tuesday.

Last week, Dennis, who is the representative for Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, had said there was a “strong possibility” a virtual event would be held.

But speaking at the post-Executive Council news conference on Wednesday, Dennis said there will be no Easter celebrations in Buccoo.

“I know the village council was considering having a virtual arrangement that would have been recorded for public consumption. But there would be no Easter festivities,” he said.

“So, I will urge persons, do not flock into Buccoo in large numbers expecting to see any goat race at this point in time.”

Dennis said, owing to the pandemic “We cannot have any goat racing as we have been accustomed to over the years.”

The chief secretary said over 10,000 visitors from Trinidad are expected to be in Tobago for Easter.

“All the reports that I have gotten so far from hoteliers and owners of guesthouses and other forms of accommodation suggest that we will have, during that period, a rate of over 80 per cent which, of course, is good for the island at this point in time.

“It is good for not only owners of those establishments, but our various business persons as this will provide an opportunity for some much- needed economic activity.”

Dennis said he learnt ferry tickets are almost sold out while flights are fully booked until after Easter.

But he warned Tobagonians and visiting Trinidadians that the country is still in a pandemic.

“We are still being impacted by this covid19 virus across the world. It continues to kill. I think the death toll is almost three million. So, therefore it continues to be very dangerous.”

As a result, Dennis said, the police will be out in full force.

He said he has already met with the assistance commissioner of police in Tobago, to discuss plans for the weekend.

“I want to put persons on notice, especially those who may be so inclined to break the law and to break the rules of engagement, that the TT Police Service will be out there and they will be required to do their jobs. They will be expected to ensure there is enforcement of the pandemic regulations.”

Dennis also urged Buccoo Marine Park tour operators and restaurateurs to abide by the covid19 health protocols when carrying out their operations.