courtesy of: The Morning News
For a number of months, the route of the 2012 Carnival has been in dispute by different groups and organizers.
The government recently decided that it was time that there be an end to the dispute and that a decision be taken as to what would be the route for next year’s Carnival parade.
During Wednesday’s press conference Minister Otmar Oduber along with Jossy Figaroa who represents the Carnival Route Commission, Papito Comencia of the Police Force and Tecla Gibbs, President of the SAC, a detailed explanation regarding the route was given.
The Minister reported that in the Council of Ministers they decided to convene the Carnival Commission for a meeting for the purpose of coming to a concrete decision on this matter.
Oduber indicated that he was pleased that during a harmonious and friendly meeting, after presenting the various propositions from the different organizations, they were able to reach a consensus. The decision taken was…. The 2012 Carnival route will be the existing route, hence, the route remains unchanged!
The Minister explained that one of the reasons for proposing a change in the route was due to the construction work taking place on the L.G.Smith Blvd related to the Linear Park. Also because of the road changes and security concerns.
Jossy Figaroa indicated that he route will remain the same with some minor modifications. For example, they will not permit trailers to be placed on the L.G.Smith Blvd as is the custom every year. Instead, the government will install tents on L.G.Smith Blvd.
Those interested in obtaining a plot with a tent will have to register for this. Those who get a tent will be able to utilize that space with family and friends. It will not be allowed to add anything to the tent or space.
The police will enforce the rules very strictly.
On the Vondellaan people will be permitted to place their trailers. Figaroa indicated that this 2012 route is specifically for 2012, but that there is no guarantee that this route will remain the same route for future years. He said, that if everything goes well this year there might be no reason to change the route. They also intend on installing stands for the public.
