Former T&T international goalkeeper, Kelvin Jack, one of 13 players owed payments by the T&T Football Association (TTFA) by virtue of a court order, has given a two-week notice to the local governing body to settle the dispute. Jack, in a media release yesterday said the TTFA is “in clear breach of the consent order authorised by the T&T High Court.” “It is a blatant disregard to the courts considering the fact that the TTFA were the ones who agreed to the terms of the settlement agreement.” Last May, the TTFA announced a settlement with the players, which was followed by the payment of one tranche. However, according to Jack, a second tranche, which was due last September was not paid in full. He said the party of players have been trying to get assurnance from the TTFA on whether it intends to honour the agreement for several months. “However, all we received were vague and intangible promises.”
The case began in 2006 when the players challenged the then T&T Football Association (TTFA) on a promise made by former special advisor Jack Warner to reward the players with bonuses for their part in securing T&T’s first and only ever appearance at a World Cup. “We are sure that most would agree that we have been ultra patient. The TTFA received over $200 million from its qualification and participation at the 2006 World Cup, yet the players who played a huge part in generating those funds are yet to be paid,” said Jack. “We are in the year 2014, and with another World Cup mere weeks away, this situation remains unresolved. Without question, this is surely one of the greatest injustices ever suffered by a sporting team in Caribbean sporting history. To put it simple, it is just not fair.” Jack said he is “sad and disappointed” having to beg that the players be paid the terms of the contract.
“We have received support from the Concacaf president Jeffrey Webb and that was refreshing. He is clearly a players’ president who has indicated that he will like nothing better than for this issue to be rectified sooner rather than later.” Jack concluded, “on the expiration of the 14 days we have afforded, if there is no payment or tangible and honourable attempts to facilitate settlement of this debt, the winding up of The Trinidad and Tobago Football federation will commence immediately.”
