The man known as ‘Calypso King of the World’, Dr. Slinger Francisco,is to be given the highest award of Trinidad and Tobago, the prime minister announced. The government also will be paying the expenses related to his medical condition.

Also known as the Mighty Sparrow, Dr. Francisco, was born in Grenada but lived most of his years in the twin islands. He returned to Trinidad and Tobago earlier this month after recovering from a diabetic coma in the United States, where he has been residing.

According to the CMC, T&T’s Prime Minister Persad Bissessar while speaking at carnival activity in Siparia said  “like so many citizens from all walks of life, I have long admired and enjoyed the impressive work of the Mighty Sparrow whose unparalleled contribution to our music and our culture has been hailed all over the world.”
She added to he has made a significant impact in the country, the region and around the world. “Your work , Sir, has been studied, analysed, dissected and interpreted by scholars, academics, musicologists, but above all by the multitude of ordinary people not only here in our twin island, and all over the Caribbean, but in so many other parts of the world. Indeed you have justly earned the title — the Calypso King of The World.”

The prime minister said her Cabinet agreed “that I recommend to His Excellency, President Anthony Carmona, to confer on you, Dr Slinger Francisco, the Mighty Sparrow, the prestigious Order of Trinidad and Tobago, the highest national recognition and honour which can be awarded to any citizen.”

“In the immortal words of your calypsos and the unique style of your showmanship, you have entertained our senses and challenged our sensibilities. Your words have inspired, reflected, caused serious introspection and at times have just provided sheer musical and lyrical delight, “Persad-Bissessar added.

She also announced that Peter Minshall, the veteran mas designer, whose work has also been hailed internationally, to grant the lease to the State property which he has been occupying for several years. (Extracted from the CMC)