Former Prime Minister, Patrick Manning

The nation continues to mourn the death of former Prime Minister, Patrick Manning.Mister Manning died at the San Fernando general hospital last Saturday morning.

His death came two days, after a diagnosis of acute Leukemia was made public. National flags are being flown at half mast and condolence books have been opened.

One book was opened at the National Academy for the Performing Arts in Port of Spain yesterday. Another was opened at the South Academy of the Performing Arts.

In Port of Spain, President Anthony Carmona, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley and members of his cabinet signed the book.

Planning Minister Camille Robinson Regis yesterday hailed Mr Manning’s leadership. Labour Minister Jennifer Baptiste Primus said in the wake of his death, many should now see the value of the man and his contributions.

And Laventille East Morvant MP, Adrian Leonce also signed the book yesterday. He said Mr Manning always had a plan for Laventille.

And opposition MP Barry Padarath said Mr Manning saw his potential and told him about it.

There are condolence books opened at the Arima Borough Corporation, the Rio Claro Mayaro Regional Corporation, the Chaguanas Borough Corporation, the Point Fortin Borough Corporation and in Tobago at the Assembly Legislature.

The Parliament has also opened a book at the south lobby, where members of the public can have access.

Mr Manning’s body is to lie in state at SAPA on Thursday and NAPA on Friday. He is to be laid to rest on Saturday following a state funeral.