No definite time-frame for Augustus’ return – PM

Former Deputy consul general Edson Augustus was not given a definite time-frame in which he was required to return to St Vincent and the Grenadines.{{more}}

Questioned about this at a press briefing on Tuesday, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves confirmed that Augustus was not given a specific time frame to return, but said that he expected that the former diplomat would have returned as promptly as all the circumstances would have permitted.

Gonsalves said that immediate action had been taken by the government once sufficient confirmation of the allegations was obtained, and on February 6, a letter was sent to the United States authorities, informing them that the deputy consul general would no longer be serving in that capacity as of February 11. Augustus was also notified of his recall in writing.

“So, if he got that letter on the Thursday evening, or Friday, he had to go get his passage, might have taken the weekend – but you would expect that by early in the week following, he should be back at home,” Gonsalves explained.

Augustus returned to the country on Monday, February 17 and the Prime Minister said he was debriefed by the Permanent Secretary and Minister of Foreign Affairs before leaving for Trinidad. (DD)