Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
Labour Minister Stephen Mc Clashie has dismissed growing speculation of an alleged plot to remove Brian Manning from his position as the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) San Fernando East representative.
Speaking to reporters at a Heritage Petroleum prize giving function at the Pointe-a-Pierre Staff Club yesterday, Mc Clashie said, “I am not aware of that, but remember we are in politics. We are going into an election and different people have different ambitions. New people will turn up and feel they can do a better job than you, and you have to deal with that. It’s politics evolving; this is not a game for the faint-hearted.”
Mc Clashie emphasised that there is no “extra plot” to oust Manning.
He noted that Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley remains in power until 2026.
Asked who was his choice to replace Dr Rowley, Mc Clashie said, “Whoever we choose when the time comes, it’s not an issue at the moment because the Prime Minister has until 2026 before he elects a new leader, so anything before that is conjecture.”
Asked about his political ambitions and whether he will be contesting the La Brea seat again, Mc Clashie revealed, “Yes, I will be submitting my application for consideration. My priorities will be education, sports, and job creation in my community.”
He acknowledged the ongoing challenges within these sectors, stating, “We need sustainable work, and over time it will get better. It’s not going to happen in one term.”
As for Rowley’s future, Mc Clashie remarked, “If you look at the Prime Minister’s number of years and what he has done and achieved, he is not getting any younger. At some point in time, he will have to decide what is best for him personally and whether he has the energy to move on.”