The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government received no request from the Sangre-Grande Regional Corporation for urgent funds to cover outstanding rent for several councillors.
Minister, Faris Al Rawi, made the disclosure when asked by Opposition Senator Damien Lyder on Monday in light of the eviction of several Councillors of the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation owing to the non-payment of rent due to the absence of timely releases, what provision has been made to ensure Councillors can continue to serve the public.
Al Rawi described the situation as unfortunate, citing the importance of management.
He claimed the specific corporation is well stock with money with over one million dollars of unspent balances.
He said the corporation received 48 percent of its annual allocations releases and has requested its other 52 percent.
Senator Lyder explained he has documentation of a letter dated January 2024 which was sent to the Ministry from the Corporation requesting the releases specifically for rent.
However, in response Minister Al Rawi Hinds said the Ministry did get an urgent request from the Corporation for a luxury vehicle for a senior official.