Newsday TT

THE EDITOR: I refer to a report which appeared in your newspaper on December 26, 2002 on Page 5, concerning the Annual Christmas Eve Party which was held at the official residence of the President. Several matters in the article are the cause of concern to the senior staff of President Robinson, but I will deal with the issue relating to certain persons who were not at the reception and the somewhat alarming conclusions which were made in the report.

The Leader of the Opposition is always invited to major events at The President’s House, but on that occasion, no invitation was issued to Mr & Mrs Panday because they were away from the country. Political affiliation (past or present) is not one of the criteria considered when invitation lists are prepared. Guests are selected from other categories, which include high public officials.

Hereunder is a rough breakdown of the categories:-

- The Honourable Prime Minister and spouse; the Chief Justice and spouse; the Attorney General and spouse.

- The Leader of the Opposition and spouse

- Members of the Diplomatic Corps

- Independent Senators

- Religious, sport and socially active personalities

- Close friends of the President and First Lady

I trust you will publish this letter so that correct information on the protocol observed will be conveyed to your readership. Please accept best wishes for the New Year.

Lenore Dorset
Executive Assistant to His Excellency
Office of the President of TT