A beloved landmark in Port of Spain is no more—at least for now. The Breakfast Shed, a staple of Trinidad and Tobago's culinary culture, has been closed, with tenants evicted over unpaid rent. The move has sparked public outcry, and tonight, Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles is urging the government to reconsider its approach, warning that the decision could have deeper social and economic implications.
00:00The iconic breakfast shed has been shuttered. Reports on Sunday confirmed that tenants were evicted due to approximately $1 million in unpaid rent owed to the state.
00:12Now, opposition leader Penelope Beckles is calling on the government to reconsider, saying that the breakfast shed is more than just a business. It's part of the cultural identity of Trinidad and Tobago.
00:26That is an institution that is part of the cultural fabric of Trinidad and Tobago.
00:32And, you know, to say exactly what is the issue, and we have heard that it's an issue of rent not being paid.
00:39There seems to be unclear whether or not they were served on notice of eviction or whether they were not served.
00:45But we are really calling on the government to have some proper discussions and collaboration with the vendors.
00:51Beckles says the move reflects what she describes as a pattern of harsh and inconsiderate actions by the UNC-led administration.
01:01She also raised concerns about reports that short-term contract workers at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs may not be rehired once their current term ends.
01:11I have with me a letter that was written by the Deputy Permanent Secretary indicating that the Honorable Minister decided that there will be no rehiring of short staff throughout the Ministry once the officer's term has ended.
01:34So that there are many divisions within the Ministry, whether it be Nicholas Towers, Chepstow House, the various sporting facilities, the various programs, whether it be SHAPE, whether it be PINK Region,
01:50where by next month, all those positions would not be renewed.
02:00She also renewed her call for the government to come clean on delays in pension payments.
02:06So we are really calling on the government to explain to pensioners of all people, you know, who depend on that for your medication and all your basic needs,
02:17to explain to the public what is the situation as it relates to pensioners not receiving their pension and not receiving their direct deposits.
02:29And with growing uncertainty, Beckles issued this stark warning.
02:33I dare say this is going to be a bleak Christmas for a lot of persons who were employed and would no longer be employed during the Christmas vacation and continuing.
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