June 10, 2016: In light of the recent media reports highlighting the current condition of the old CSO building at #80 Independence Square, we wish to assure the public that the Ministry of Planning and Development has been working to address the issues reported and would like the following information disseminated:
On May 29th, 2013 the Ministry of Planning and Development received a prohibition notice from the Occupational Safety and Health Authority and Agency (OSHA) prohibiting occupancy of the Central Statistical Office’s main building located at #80 Independence Square, Port of Spain. The Ministry immediately complied and new arrangements were sought for staff of the CSO. During this time, specific processes had to be observed at the guidance of OSHA to enter the building to vacate the premises of equipment, files and documents.
By July 2013, the majority of staff was relocated to the Park and Pembroke Street offices of the CSO. The Ministry of Planning actively collaborated with the staff, the Union representatives and other stakeholders such as the OSHA and the Property Management Division to safeguard that all processes were followed for the maximum comfort of the staff and the best conditions to allow the CSO to continue its core functions. On Friday 31st July, 2015 the CSO officially moved into a new building on #47 Frederick Street in Port of Street.
Regarding the old CSO building, measures were put in place on site to secure the remaining equipment and documents.
The following procedures were enacted:
- The doors were sealed, chained and padlocked to deter access.
- The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service was also engaged to conduct regular patrols.
- Due to unsafe nature of the building OSHA agreed to allow staff into the building using 15 minute rotations to retrieve the remainder of the equipment.
- Regarding the intruders, the Police Service has on more than one occasion removed persons from the building, but the individuals return and keep finding new entryways.
- Urgent attention is being given to remove the remaining equipment from the building over the course of next week.
- Steps are being taken towards the consideration of the building’s demolition.
The Ministry of Planning and Development ensures citizens that we are continuously working and a solution will be achieved.
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For further information please contact:
The Communications Department
Ministry of Planning and Development
868-627-9700 ext. 1457