Minister of Culture with responsibility for Carnival told an “Issues” audience on Thursday afternoon that the budget for the 2015 Carnival was in the area of $650,000.00.
Responding to a question about the increase of vending fees, Richards said that Carnival successes came with a cost, whether its in the Caribbean or in ST. Kitts-Nevis.
Richards explained there were costs incurred in hosting Carnival at Port Zante, in prizes for contestants, payments to individuals and companies.
He however felt that the economic spend off ensured that at the end of the day, people was satisfied with the overall carnival product.
When asked about the problems associated with Carnival Chairman Noah Mills and the criticisms received from soca artistes and the situation involving party central venue, Mr Richards said the Carnival Chairman was in his first year and that the problems experienced with Mills had been resolved.