PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC– The Trinidad and Tobago government has announced plans to build six new sporting venues as part of a sports tourism initiative to attract more international events to the twin republic.
Finance Minister Larry Howai says three major sports centres will be built for international competition while three multi-purpose sport facilities will be constructed.
Mr. Howai says the National Aquatic Centre, the National Tennis Centre and the National Velodrome will be built according to international specifications while design work and financing are being finalized this year for the three new multipurpose facilities.
“The National Aquatic Centre, the National Tennis Centre and the National Velodrome will be constructed in readiness for international competition”said Howai as he delivered the country’s new TT$58.4 billion (One TT dollar = US$0.16 cents) budget on Monday.
“… and built according to international specifications to attract world class athletes to Trinidad and Tobago to provide the required exposure to our athletes and provide the opportunity for Sport Tourism”
The finance minister also announced plans to upgrade about a hundred sporting venues across the country including the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Tobago which is to be fitted with external lighting, drainage, electrical installation and athletic track upgrade.
He says 64 recreation grounds, 41 play parks and several indoor facilities are to be upgraded as well.
Howai says construction will coincide with the preparation of a marketing programme for hosting international events particularly during the winter months.
“During their stay, they would compete with our local athletes who will assist our development to world-class standard”said Howai.
“We shall ensure that these facilities are fully and effectively utilized”.
