A mischief maker!
That’s how Public Utilities Minister Marvin Gonzales described Princes Town MP Barry Padarath, after the UNC MP made allegations about corruption at the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (TTEC).
Padarath claimed there was “a politically-charged incestuous relationship” taking place between TTEC and the Regulated Industries Commission (RIC).
He alleged that he received information of known PNM members getting jobs at TTEC and “stacking the pack.”
He made the claims during a news conference at the Opposition Leader’s office in Port of Spain on Sunday.
Padarath said all of this was in preparation for a possible increase in electricity rates from June 1st and reiterated his claims that the RIC was not being transparent in its public consultations on the proposed rate increase.
However, Gonzales in response, said, “I can’t be distracted by the diarrhoea and diatribe of the MP for Princes Town. I have more serious matters to deal with in my service to the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.”
What authority do I have to give T&TEC instructions to raise electricity rates ?! Where is evidence of that? There’s a legal process to review water and electricity rates and an independent commission for that exercise.”
“Why is Padarath and the UNC pretending as though they don’t know that? He’s just a mischief maker and national irritant!” the minister said.
Gonzales said Padarath peddles fictional narratives hoping the national media will carry the stories and clothe them with some kind of credibility to mislead unsuspecting citizens.”
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