Mayor: No election road paving in San Fernando

SAN Fernando Mayor Robert Parris says roads were being paved in the city long before Prime Minister Stuart Young announced April 28 as the date for the general election.

He made this comment during a statutory meeting of the San Fernando City Corporation at San Fernando City Hall, Harris Promenade on March 25.

"We did not pave roads for elections."

Parris said it is important members of the public understand this fact.

"Since last year we were paving roads and persons may now notice that was being done."

He added these works happened in all electoral districts which fall under the corporation.

None of the assembled council members objected to this comment.

Young was sworn in as prime minister on March 17 and one day later announced April 28 as election day.

Nomination day is April 4.

UNC Marabella West councillor John Michael Alibocus is the party's San Fernando East candidate.

He will challenge incumbent MP Brian Manning for control of the traditional PNM stronghold constituency.

Parris also said he was pleased with proactive work being done to clear drains and watercourses to prevent flooding.

He said San Fernando was one of the few areas last year which was not adversely affected by flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Parris was optimistic these works will continue.

He did not see upcoming public holidays for Spiritual Baptist Liberation Day and Eid-ul-Fitr as reasons why flood preventative measures could not take place.