Border security between T&T and Venezuela is being stepped up in anticipation of an increased influx of Venezuelans following the crisis in that country, says National Security Minister Stuart Young.
At yesterday’s post-Cabinet media briefing he said, “As things develop and if they develop in a manner that’s not one of calm we - being one of the neighbouring countries to Venezuela - can expect an influx of immigrants.”
He said he has spoken to security heads including the Chief of Defence Staff. He said T&T Police Service and Coast Guard patrols will increase presence and operations will be more intelligence driven.
“The borders have been made less porous and I want them even more secure and that’s occurring,” he said.
He meets next week with other agencies to improve security at ports of entry. Young said the United Nations estimates there are 40,000 Venezuelans in T&T.
Noting the current tension surrounding incumbent President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, who has declared himself interim President, Young also said Government hoped that regardless of who is in power in Venezuela, the Dragon Field gas project will continue in the same way that when Governments change in T&T, projects continue once there are proper contracts.