In a very carefully worded letter from the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, Pan Trinbago was warned of the government’s dissatisfaction of its planned usage of the designation “national” in the naming of Pan Trinbago’s youth steel orchestra.  Pan Trinbago is the recognized governing body of all matters related to the steelpan instrument in Trinidad and Tobago.  The twin-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago is the official birthplace of steelpan instrument.

The relationship between the Trinidad and Tobago government and Pan Trinbago has often times been contentious. Funding for Pan Trinbago projects are mainly provided by the government.

A copy of the official letter sent from the government to Pan Trinbago was forwarded to When Steel Talks News and is posted below.

Letter to Pan Trinbago from Ministry of Culture

I have been directed to communicate with you that the Ministry is aware of Pan Trinbago's Proposed launch of a steel orchestra under the designated name the "National Youth Steel Orchestra" on Tuesday December 16, 2008.

The Ministry is concerned about the use of the word "National" as part of the proposed name of your Youth Steel Orchestra. Moreover, the Ministry has been receiving several calls enquiring whether the designation satisfies legal requirement's; and whether it is Government supported.

Please be advised that out of an abundance of caution, the Ministry is awaiting a legal opinion on the use of the word 'National' in the designation of your steel orchestra.

In the interim therefore, you are kindly advised to avoid use of the word "National" in the designation. Instead, the name "Pan Trinbago Youth Steel Orchestra" is suggested, or in the alternative, a name that reflects the reality if the orchestra being a creature of Pan Trinbago.

Please be guided accordingly.


Yours sincerely


Permanent Secretary