Pan Trinbago is pushing back against National Gas Company (NGC) chairman Gerald Ramdeen, accusing him of downplaying the cultural and economic value of steelbands after the company withdrew sponsorship from the organization and three of its bands.
In a sharply worded response, Pan Trinbago said Ramdeen’s recent comments misrepresent corporate sponsorship as outside the scope of responsible state enterprise activity. The organisation argued that cultural investment is core to corporate social responsibility, not a charitable favour.
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The withdrawal of support, Pan Trinbago said, comes at a critical time for the national instrument’s global rise and threatens panyard programs that function as community hubs, offering youth development, employment, and economic activity. The group warned the loss of sponsorship will affect not only musicians, but transport operators, instrument builders, tailors, food vendors and other small businesses tied to the steelpan ecosystem.
“It’s more than music,” the statement stressed, describing panyards as classrooms, safe spaces and cultural engines that strengthen communities.
Responding to the criticism, Ramdeen maintained that the NGC is “not a charitable organisation” and must prioritise financial discipline. He said the funding cuts are part of a broader effort to restore order and deliver returns to shareholders, accusing the previous administration of mismanagement.
Pan Trinbago has vowed to continue advocating for support, calling the steelpan a pillar of national identity, cultural tourism, and social cohesion.
