Following yesterday’s announcement by Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley that Carnival 2021 “is not on”, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts is pledging to do the work to ensure this country retains its title as the Mecca of all Carnivals.

Minister Randall Mitchell gave an assurance that government will engage in dialogue with the stakeholders within the industry, to chart the way forward in the face of COVID-19. 

“We will continue to prioritize the nation’s health over short-term economic gains. But we also recognize what Carnival means to Trinidad and Tobago, therefore, the Ministry will continue its dialogue with the major stakeholders to envisage a celebration which honours those traditions and adheres to health protocols,” the Minister said. 

The Ministry has been in discussions with key Carnival stakeholders and the National Carnival Commission (NCC) over the past few weeks.

During these meetings, the Ministry said it was clear that there is a need for Trinidad and Tobago to retain its place on the international Carnival calendar to ensure future economic and social benefits and to solidify our position as the home of Carnival.

“Trinidad and Tobago must take the lead and provide the world with a benchmark to follow for how such a festival can still hold worldwide attention. It is imperative that whatever is envisaged takes into consideration our new normal without flouting any of the health guidelines in place,” stated Minister Mitchell.

The Ministry said it is prepared to lay the foundation for an even bigger and better Carnival 2022, and will use the lessons learnt from the previously held CPL 2020 as a guiding light on hosting events during the present reality.