Leacock's contract not renewed for Tobago festival commission

The contract of George Leacock, the suspended festival director of the Tobago Festival Commission, has expired and has not been renewed.

Back in May, THA Secretary of Tourism, Culture and Transportation Nadine Stewart-Phillips told a virtual news conference that he had been suspended.

Contacted on Monday for an update, THA Chief Secretary and Secretary of Tourism, Culture and Transportation Ancil Dennis referred Newsday to chairman of the commission Dr Denise Tsoiafatt-Angus, who said Leacock was no longer on suspension and his contract has since ended.

She said she was not at liberty to discuss the matter further.

No new contract was issued.

During the 2020 Carnival season, the Tobago Mas Bands Leaders and the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) Tobago complained about Leacock’s leadership and called for his removal.

Sources told Newsday Leacock’s contract came to an end in July, but the investigation was completed and the commission discontinued the issue.

Leacock, the former executive chairman of the commission, was announced as festivals director, a new position, in August 2019.

He was responsible for the logistical planning, organising and execution of Tobago’s festivals, including the Tobago Jazz Experience, Heritage Festival, Carnival and the Blue Food Festival.