RHONDOR DOWLAT
Senior Reporter
rhondor.dowlat@guardian.co.tt
Minister of Social Development and Family Services Donna Cox has confirmed that a tribunal will hear three cases related to the alleged theft of food cards this month.
The tribunal will meet at the Public Service Commission to look into claims that 32 stolen food cards were used to make purchases amounting to $117,200. This follows investigations by the Social Development Ministry into the disappearance of the cards in 2022.
Following those investigations, four employees of the ministry were sent on administrative leave in October, including the director of the programme, a clerk, an administrative officer and an administrative assistant. A fifth person took early retirement and escaped disciplinary charges.
“As the trials against the officers of the Social and Welfare Divisions take place, the ministry continues to monitor the proceedings closely,” Cox said.
“To date, one matter has been dismissed. Three matters were adjourned and the accused will appear before the tribunal on the 11th, 19th and 24th April respectively.”