Minister of National Security, Stuart Young, will be meeting ‘in the next couple of days’ with Chief Immigration Officer, Charmaine Gandhi-Andrews following allegations of non-performance of duties and regular overseas travels.
To compound the issue, the allegations were made at a time the public is in an uproar over the length of time it takes for the renewal of passports.
As Minister of the line ministry for Immigration, Stuart Young was asked what action would be taken following the accusations. Responding to our questions via What’s App yesterday, Young said, “ I do things properly and operate systematically. I believe in the principles of due process, proper procedure and natural justice. I am meeting with the Permanent Secretaries and Immigration.”
On the issue of the lengthy wait for appointments to renew passports, the Minister reiterated his directive that the process should take no longer than one month.
Yesterday Minister Young said he did a spot check at the Immigration Office along Frederick Street in Port-of-Spain to speak with immigration officers. Minister Young said he this will also be discussed at this meeting this week with Permanent Secretaries and Immigration.
Guardian Media made several attempts to speak with Chief Immigration Officer, Gandhi- Andrews but they were all unsuccessful.