Bandleaders said yesterday they had no problem with the proposed ban of "wee-wee trucks" on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, once adequate and safe portable toilets were provided for masqueraders.
"There must be a guarantee that there are adequate toilets with people to clean them," said Genesis bandleader Ian McKenzie.
Port-of-Spain Mayor Murchison Brown said on Monday health officials were concerned that the portable toilets carried on trucks were not serviced throughout the day during Carnival. He said the City Corporation had proposed that such toilets be placed at parks, bank car parks and squares. McKenzie said since word of the prohibition got out, he immediately cancelled the band's "wee-wee" trucks for next year. Legacy's Juliet De La Bastide was in support of the corporation's idea but noted: "Masqueraders must have spaces along the route with clean and safe toilet facilities and they need to advise bandleaders in advance so we can let masqueraders know how they can move to suit," she said.
"The idea itself is not a bad one. It is really not the most practical thing to be driving around with these trucks." Acclaimed masman Brian McFarlane said before all-inclusive bands came up with the idea of "wee-wee" trucks, portable toilets provided by the National Carnival Commission worked very well. "They were well maintained, cleaned regularly, well lit and safe," he said. Asked whether these trucks were included in his band, McFarlane said abruptly: "I never had them. I would never have them and I am glad they are gone." He recalled that one year ago his band paraded behind a "bikini and beads" band with a "wee-wee" truck and had to endure smelling filth for the entire mas' route.
Meanwhile, Ricky Davidson of the St James medium band, We International, objected to the proposed ban because of the high rate of crime. "Crime is a concern, especially for the women. If they leave the band to urinate that may be a big risk," he said. He added that masqueraders already had indicated to him they would not play mas without the "wee-wee" trucks. "Before they take away the trucks the country must have discipline," he said.