(Barbados Nation) More than 10 000 people are expected to pack Kensington Oval for next week’s state funeral of departed Prime Minister David Thompson.
Yesterday, Foreign Affairs Minister Maxine McClean, who is in charge of the November 3 funeral arrangements, said that to stay within the guidelines of the Oval’s11 000 seat capacity of the Oval, admission and seating will be by ticket only.
“There is a maximum capacity at Kensington Oval and we expect we will have that maximum. All persons, all, will not be able to enter Kensington Oval or St. John’s Parish Church without the necessary authorisation,” said McClean, who noted that the funeral service will be broadcast live on television and radio.
There will be no seating on the grounds of the Oval for the general public. That area has been reserved for family and specially invited guests.
McClean told a press briefing at Government headquarters on Bay Street that tickets will be available shortly and the Barbados Government Information Service will publicise the venues where the tickets can be obtained.
Members of Parliament (MPs) will be provided with tickets to distribute to their constituents.
“Tickets will be on a first come, first serve basis,” she said.
McClean that there will be heavy representation of regional and extra regional dignitaries for Wednesday’s service and burial with CARICOM chairman, Bruce Golding of Jamaica, slated to be in attendance.