THA Probing Alleged Racial Slur By Contractor

The Tobago House of Assembly is investigating racist comments allegedly made by one of its contractors. A Newsday article published on Friday reported that the Managing Director of Trinidad-based Innovative Roofing and Construction Solutions, John Chadee, when questioned about the contract obtained to conduct road works in Tobago, reportedly asked, “English language hard for you Negro reporters to understand?” On Monday, a release from the Office of the Chief Secretary informed that the investigation began on Friday, adding that Chief Secretary Farley Augustine considers the allegations as a serious moral and ethical infringement. The release added that the Executive Council is advised that the matter may attract some legal action and, as such, due diligence must be taken before the THA acts. It was noted that the THA is prepared to go as far as terminating the contract once the alleged statement is verified. The verification is expected to be received by Tuesday.