Xmas decorations removed from Cipriani statue

Christmas decorations on the statute of Capt Arthur Andrew Cipriani at Independence Square, Port of Spain, came down on Sunday.

Just before 7 pm, a work crew was busy removing the decorations and lights which had been installed by the Urban Development Corporation of TT (Udecott) and the Office of the Prime Minister.

On Saturday, several trade unions called on Udecott and the Port of Spain City Corporation to remove the decorations which covered the statue, saying they were disrespectful to the trade union movement.

The statue was covered by the construction of a decorative gingerbread house with Christmas ornaments at the Cipriani roundabout.

In response, Port of Spain mayor Joel Martinez said the decorations were installed in an effort to bring Christmas cheer to the city.

He said he understood the concerns and would have a discussion with the corporation’s council and Udecott in the week to determine the next move.

On Sunday, the decorations were removed from the statue, which was erected in 1959 by late prime minister Dr Eric Williams. Cipriani was a trade unionist, World War I veteran, and mayor of Port of Spain.

The light installations which surrounded the statue were moved to another part of the Brian Lara Promenade, where a Christmas village will be set up.