Skelton adds voice to anti-Kartel concert chorus

Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton has added his voice to the growing list of dissenters opposing Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s decision to support a Vybz Kartel concert in March next year.

During an interview with ZBVI Radio, Skelton criticised Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s decision to allocate $250,000 of public funds to the event, questioning the government’s priorities at a time when pressing issues remain unaddressed.

Skelton argued that the funds should be redirected to more urgent matters affecting the territory. “We’ve already wasted a lot of money on previous events, like the non-stop concert and music festival,” he said. “Why is the government pouring even more money into this concert when there are so many problems that need attention?”

The Opposition Leader was particularly vocal over the financial strain on the government, noting recent budgetary errors that led to a nearly $20 million shortfall for public servant salaries and pension benefits. “Where is the money coming from? Because we have made a nearly $20 million mistake in the salary increases and budgeting that we did for civil servants and public servants increases and pension benefits,” Skelton remarked.

He also pointed out that the timing of the funding for the concert raises additional concerns, as the territory is currently in the midst of hurricane season. “We are in the heart of the hurricane season and we don’t know what’s gonna happen in terms of hurricanes, so why are we just taking up money and in these difficult times trying to keep a party?” he asked.

Skelton questioned whether the government’s priorities align with the needs of the people, especially small businesses struggling in the current economic climate.

The concert, sponsored by the Office of the Premier and promoted by YOLO Promotions, has also drawn criticism from other government officials. Deputy Premier Lorna Smith and Minister of Communications Kye Rymer both disapproved of the decision, highlighting the lack of cohesion within the government. Critics have suggested that such events should be privately funded rather than using taxpayer dollars​.

Skelton reiterated that the government should focus on economic recovery and infrastructure improvements rather than costly entertainment events. “The economy is the most important thing in this country: small businesses generating jobs, mom-and-pop stores. That is what kept us going for many, many years and here we are ignoring the small businesses,” he stated.

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