The Opposition Leader has strongly criticised Prime Minister Stuart Young's announcement of a $1 million ex gratia payment to the lone survivor and each of the families of the four dead men in the Paria diving tragedy, calling the move a disgusting and insulting attempt to buy votes ahead of the upcoming general election.

"This is the lowest election stunt he has pulled yet, and it reeks of desperation," Kamla Persad-Bissessar said on April 3 via a media statement.

She labelled the act shameful, accusing Young of begging for votes and handing out bills at a recent event.