| Subject: And the Minister had this to say |
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smurfgyrl
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Date Posted: Sunday, December 14, 02:21:22am
Author Host/IP: EATcf-677p71.ppp15.odn.ne.jp/220.212.33.71
In reply to:
smurfgyrl
's message, "I support Peter" on Sunday, December 14, 02:20:13am
Culture Minister praises Gabrielle
Sunday, December 14 2008
Minister of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, Marlene McDonald, yesterday conveyed the gratitude of the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago to the Miss Trinidad and Tobago Miss World delegate Gabrielle Walcott, for being chosen the second runner-up in the 2008 Miss World Competition.
In a release issued yesterday McDonald noted Walcott’s achievement in copping the first place in the “Beauty with a purpose” segment of the competition, and also noted that Walcott’s gown was the second place winner in the “World Designer Award” for her evening gown.
She stated that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago remains conscious of the tremendous opportunity afforded by the Miss World pageant for the promotion of our country and the development of delegates like Miss Walcott as possible role models for our young women.
McDonald then said, “As in previous years therefore, the Government provided the financial support necessary to assist in enabling our delegate to not only prepare herself, but to compete and produce results such as that which we celebrate today and of which the country takes immeasurable pride.”
When Newsday spoke with franchise holder for the Miss World and Miss Universe competitions, Peter Elias earlier he said, “Peter Elias and Associates is grateful for whatever support we have received from the Government; however, support has been our greatest challenge of all.”
It is public knowledge that Elias has had to struggle to get promised support over the years.
This year was no different in that the first installment from the government was received one day before Miss Universe representative Anya Ayoung-Chee left for the competition.
By that time Elias had spent more than that first $100,000. preparing her for competition.
Other financial support came in August and late November, after Walcott already left for South Africa causing a strain on preparations.
Eventually the government gave approximately two-thirds of the budget necessary to have delegates properly represent this country.
Nevertheless McDonald said, “The Ministry again encourages the private sector and the national community in general, to partner with the franchise holders in respect of future competitions and, in particular, the provision of assistance to local charities selected by future delegates.”
The Ministry, on behalf of the Government took the opportunity to again applaud the efforts of Elias and Associates, for their continued efforts in preparing our delegates for the competitions.
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