Garcia: I offer myself...again

ONCE polled as TT’s best-performing minister, Education Minister Anthony Garcia said he will be offering himself for re-nomination as Arima MP in the 2020 general elections. Speaking to Newsday on Monday, he scotched any notion of being “over the hill,” despite having been TTUTA’s founding president in 1979.

“I have thrown my hat in the ring. I am in very good health. I have just completed a total medical including ultrasound and everything is very good. I am from a family of long-livers,” he said.

Asked about his record over the past five years in one of the most-demanding ministries, Garcia said, “On a scale of one to ten, I’d give myself a 7.5 to eight. There are a number of challenges in a ministry like the Ministry of Education. I think I’ve been able to deal with the challenges and have been able to lead.” On his representation as Arima MP, Garcia said, “I’d rate my performance as an MP as a solid eight.” He said his large constituency includes La Fillette, Blanchisseuse, Brasso Seco, Paria, Morne La Croix, Aripo, Heights of Demerara and “Arima proper” including Santa Rosa and Pinto Road.

Newsday asked if Cabinet was shaken by the resignation of Public Utilities Minister Robert Le Hunte, Garcia replied, “The PNM is a party that observes the tenets of democracy and allows every member an opportunity to serve at the highest level. It is well-known for its integrity.”

Pressed as to whether the PNM was shaken by the weekend’s shock events, Garcia said, “That is democracy operating at its pristine level.”

Asked if the Government will win in 2020, Garcia said, “This Government is well on the way to victory at the general election, whenever it is called.”