The Trinidad and Tobago Promoters Association (TTPA) has publicly denounced the government’s sudden prohibition on utilizing state-owned venues for Carnival 2026 festivities, characterizing the move as discriminatory and operationally disruptive. During a December 3 media briefing at One Woodbrook Place in Port of Spain, industry representatives revealed approximately 16 major events now face potential cancellation or relocation due to the policy shift.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar initially justified the restrictions last month citing noise pollution concerns near venues including Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA) and Hasely Crawford Stadium. The annual Out in South fete, traditionally hosted at BLCA, has already been confirmed as a casualty of the new regulations.
TTPA Vice President Asha Green emphasized the association seeks constructive consultation rather than legal confrontation, despite having received no response to their December 1 letter requesting policy reversal. Green outlined comprehensive noise-mitigation strategies proposed by promoters, including certified acoustic oversight, real-time sound monitoring, and strategic speaker placement—measures she noted often exceed state recommendations.
The financial implications are substantial, with promoters anticipating multimillion-dollar losses. Event producer Adrian Chandler described an atmosphere of uncertainty, noting that even when venues became available, increased costs made them economically unfeasible for many stakeholders.
Damian Baboolal, director at Spirit Mas and secretary of Naparima College’s Past Students Association, highlighted the disproportionate impact on southern Trinidad communities. He revealed the ban has effectively dismantled vital fundraising mechanisms for educational institutions, depriving schools of resources for underprivileged students and infrastructure improvements. Baboolal further alleged an unofficial government mandate prohibiting state agencies from sponsoring Carnival events, exacerbating the financial strain on cultural organizers.
The association maintains that collaborative governance—exemplified by the successful relocation of Scorch’s First Jam event through cooperation with the National Carnival Commission—represents a more effective solution than outright bans for addressing community concerns while preserving Trinidad’s cultural heritage.