And this utility sector acquisition by government raises questions about another for which answers have also been scarce. That's BTL's reported plan to acquire its competitor Speednet or SMART, and the country's three major cable companies.
The rumoured sale - which will cost BTL more than a hundred million dollars - has been in discussions for months - but there has been no concrete information forthcoming. And even though two Briceno family fully or partially owned companies are in the mix and stand to be sold for tens of million of dollars, the PM refused, flatly refused to comment today:
Jules Vasquez:
"As you look at over, one has to ask, are you looking it over as a, as a future parent company or the owner of your family owned business, Speednet, is that deals still live?"
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"I, I think you need to talk to other people about that, but I would not comment on that. I have nothing to do with that. Maybe you need to talk to Jamie, his number is."
Jules Vasquez:
"Sir, but he's your brother. You talk to him every day."
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"Can we have another question?"
Jules Vasquez:
But sir, you're answerable. It's your family business.
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"I'm. I'm not going to go into a banter with you, I have given my position. But know my position "
Jules Vasquez:
"But you have to answer this because it's your family business."
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"No, I don't have to answer it, can we have another question."
