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PNM 50th Anniversary Celebratory
Sports and Family Day

PNM Sports and Family Day
PNM Sports and Family Day in pictures


TriniView.com Reporters
June 06, 2006


The PNM 50th Anniversary Celebratory Sports and Family Day, which was held at the Eddie Hart Grounds in Tacarigua, June 04, 2006, was attended by people in the thousands both young and old. Many came to celebrate the historicity of the occasion, while others showed their undying adoration and support for the PNM government.

The ruling People's National Movement is the oldest party in Trinidad and Tobago, born on January 24, 1956. During the historical epoch of 1956 until 1981, the People's National Movement was ruled by the legendary Prime Minister and historian, Dr. Eric Eustace Williams, who is still venerated by many in the country today. The PNM, despite losing the general elections in 2000, is the only party that has contested every election, both national and local and has contested every seat in every election from its inception. The historical contribution of the PNM was what many from all ends of the country had come to celebrate.

The day began with the Marcher's Assemble followed by an Invocation and Welcome address by the Party Vice Chairman. Subsequent to this was the arrival of the political leader of the People's National Movement, the Honorable Prime Minister, Mr. Patrick Manning and the handing over of the symbolic torch, which was one of the high points of the day.

Throughout the day were various activities ranging from a March Past with members of all the constituencies, which started after nine in the morning, to several races which included the Officials of the Party Race, the Alderman and Councilors Race, Fisherman's Catch, Ski Race and a Beer Drinking Competition among other fun activities.

Although the day was generally a sunny one, rain fell intermittently throughout the afternoon. However, the sporadic weather did not put a damper on those present who still entertained themselves at the grounds. People of all ages engaged in the festive occasion either by relaxing and picnicking or by taking in the sweet melodies of the Siparia Rhythm Posse and the La Horquetta Steelband Orchestra.

Children especially enjoyed the day out as they reveled in the freedom of the outdoors. Many of them showed off their discipline, their maturity and their skills during the March Past session and, in the same vein, many adults displayed their childlike disposition when they participated in some of the fun and games activities.

Following the informal part of the event, was the official ceremony where there were presentations of awards and trophies to the winners of the March Past Competition, the constituency of Point-a-Pierre, and the Prime Minister's Trophy which was awarded to the constituency of Arima-Maloney.

The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, the Honorable Mr. Patrick Manning, then provided a speech about the history and importance of the celebration. He thanked the audience for being present to support the occasion and the party, the People's National Movement. Mr. Manning also went on to address one of the major concerns in the country, the removal of the Trinity Cross as the Nation's highest award, giving credence to the decisions of the courts. Mr. Manning also brought to the table ideas of reformism to the structure of the Parliament. This included thoughts about boundary and administrative rearrangements and the idea of a consociational democracy where leadership would be shared by the Government and the opposition, which he said was still on the table for discussion.

After the entertainment that followed, by local boy band 'Surge' and a very talented break dancing group, the show came to a quick halt, keeping in check the tight schedule promised. It is hoped by members of the People's National Movement that the success of the PNM 50th Anniversary Celebratory Sports and Family Day would reflect in the results of the next general elections. Time would be the telling factor.

PNM 50th Anniversary Celebratory Sports and Family Day in pictures


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