Errol Edward Mahabir was a former Trinidad and Tobago Politician, Deputy Leader of the People’s National Movement, and Senior Cabinet Minister.

Early life and education

Errol Edward Mahibir was born on 25 February 1931 in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago. He earned a Bachelor in Administration and Management from Columbia Pacific University.

Career

Mahabir joined the Peaople’s National Movement in 1959, and served as one of three deputy political leaders alongside George Chambers and Kamaluddin Mohammed.

He first entered electoral politics as the MP for San Fernando West in 1966, replacing Dr Winston Mahabir. Prior to entering parliament, he servered as Deputy Mayor of San Fernando, his hometown, from 1960-1963 and Mayor from 1963 - 1966.

During the 20 years he spent in government, Mahabir served in the ministries of Labour and Social Security (1969-1971); Industry and Commerce (1973-1976): Petroleum and Mines (1976-1979), Energy & Energy-based Industries (1979-1981); Labour, Social Security and Co-operatives (1981-1985); and External Affairs (1985-1986) in the Eric Williams and George Chambers administrations.

In his Energy portfolio, Mahabir oversaw the creation of the National Gas Company (NGC), which was conceptualised with a view to delivering offshore gas directly to the industries at the Point Lisas industrial estate and elsewhere.

After demitting office Errol became active in the business sector, assisting his family with the management of the Damus Group, and serving on numerous Boards of Directors in both the Public and Private Sectors.

Honours and awards

Mahabir was awarded the Chaconia Medal Gold in 2010.

Death

Errol Mahabir died on 19 September 2015 following a brief illness.  He was 84 years old. He was cremated at a private ceremony at Belgrove’s Funeral Home.

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