PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar could only describe the arson attack on Building 2 at Trou Macaque, Laventille, yesterday as a "most tragic incident" which should not re-occur.

"This is a most tragic incident on the eve of Christmas. ...What do you say when something like this happens except that we do not know the work of the Lord other than perhaps out of evil cometh good," Persad-Bissessar said last evening when she visited the area.

The Prime Minister added that coming out of this incident the aim is that nothing like this happens again.

"Everyone of these building must be examined. It must be done as fast as possible so if a tragedy were to occur there will be some way to escape. That is my first mandate to (Housing Development Corporation) HDC ASAP," Persad-Bissessar said.

She added that such incidents could not be prevented but there can be some alleviation to the effects and the matter will be taken to Cabinet for funding to retro-fit buildings with fire escapes, which residents say they have been clamouring for over ten years.

The PM also expressed condolences to the relatives of those who died and promised to do all that is possible to help those in need.

"How can we say to these families Merry Christmas?" the PM said adding that she and her Government will do all they can to ensure they can bring the greatest relief.

Following the PM's assurances HDC chairman Jearlean John told members of the media the 20 families in need of relocation will be accommodated rent-free at Oropune Gardens, Piarco, for up to three months.

Of the 20 families to be relocated 13 were handed keys yesterday with the remainder to be processed today. In the meantime, the Express was informed those families will be staying by relatives and residents of the area.

Following the three months rent free, John said the families will be assessed to determine their rental fee they will pay as the residents are currently paying a $100 monthly rental fee. She added HDC was providing transport to those who will be relocated.

Also speaking at the site was Member of Parliament for the area NiLeung Hypolite who said he was pleased with the response he got from the various ministries and thanked John in particular for her timely response.

Social Development Minister Dr Glenn Ramadharsingh who was on hand as well said psychological support was being made available to the affected residents. He added that the Red Cross was contacted and it provided clothing, hygiene kits, pillows and mattresses.

"It is a national tragedy that we have people having to flee from that fire and not having access to an emergency stairway," Ramadharsingh said, adding that funeral grants are being processed to assist the relatives of those who died.