Negotiations between the Government and Hilton International Trinidad Limited regarding the future operation of the Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre remain active and are in their final stages, with no decision taken to permanently discontinue the hotel’s operations.
This is according to Evolving Tecknologies and Enterprise Development Company Limited (eTeck), in a statement on Tuesday.
Earlier this year, reports emerged that the Hilton Group was preparing to withdraw its brand from the State-owned property amid concerns over the need for significant capital upgrades at the hotel.
In its statement on Tuesday, eTeck reminded that the proposed transaction was inherited by the current Board and Management after remaining unresolved since the original lease arrangement expired in 2023.
The company said that since assuming responsibility for advancing the matter, the Government, together with eTeck’s Board of Directors and Management, has undertaken a “rigorous and deliberate process” on behalf of the people of Trinidad and Tobago.
eTeck said it understands that Hilton has communicated with its employees and the Recognised Majority Union regarding the expiry of the current lease.
It clarified that all persons employed at the Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre are employees of Hilton International Trinidad Limited and not eTeck, adding that Hilton remains responsible for fulfilling its current employment obligations.
The company assured Hilton employees, the Recognised Majority Union, guests, suppliers and the wider national community that negotiations remain active and constructive.