Carib Scope

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  • Danny Guerra’s SoE detention review stalled

    Danny Guerra’s SoE detention review stalled

    The legal challenge mounted by businessman Danny Guerra against his preventive detention under Trinidad and Tobago’s state of emergency has encountered procedural delays. The Emergency Review Tribunal adjourned proceedings on December 18 to accommodate attorneys representing the Minister of Homeland Security, who requested additional time to prepare written submissions.

    Led by Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan, the ministerial legal team’s request for extension faced strong opposition from Guerra’s defense counsel. Richard Thomas, KC, heading a legal team comprising Nerisa Bala and Emily Rampersad, contended that the minister’s representatives failed to adhere to established practice directions governing such review proceedings.

    The tribunal ultimately granted the extension, setting December 23 as the deadline for the minister’s submissions, with Guerra’s legal team afforded until the following day to formulate their response. No subsequent hearing date has been scheduled.

    Guerra’s detention stems from his November 20 arrest by the Special Investigations Unit, which alleges his leadership of an organized criminal network engaged in arms trafficking, money laundering, and illegal quarry operations. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander’s detention order further references an alleged assassination plot targeting a government minister.

    Notably, Thomas received special authorization through Legal Notice 459, gazetted on December 17, enabling his representation in Trinidad and Tobago courts despite not being locally admitted.

    This case represents another chapter in Guerra’s legal difficulties, following previous charges filed on October 11 against both him and his son for unlicensed aggregate processing. Those charges resulted in $50,000 bail for each defendant granted by a justice of the peace.

    The current state of emergency, initially declared on July 18 and extended for three months in October, remains in effect until January 2026, providing the legal framework for Guerra’s ongoing detention without formal charges.

  • Bleak Xmas for NCRHA security officers

    Bleak Xmas for NCRHA security officers

    Security personnel employed by Safety Investigations Security Services, contracted by Trinidad’s North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA), are confronting severe financial hardship as Christmas approaches, with many reporting unpaid wages since September. The crisis emerges from a protracted financial dispute between the security firm and the healthcare authority, creating a cascading effect on frontline workers.

    According to a senior operations officer who spoke with Newsday on December 19, the NCRHA’s failure to settle outstanding payments for contracted services has left the security company without sufficient funds to compensate its employees. This financial deadlock has forced workers to make painful sacrifices during the holiday season.

    One female officer, requesting anonymity due to fears of victimization, revealed the personal toll: “I haven’t purchased Christmas gifts for my children, and with the holiday less than a week away, I must borrow money simply to buy groceries.” Another employee confirmed seeking alternative employment amid the uncertainty.

    Company representatives acknowledged the distress while emphasizing their limited control over the situation. “We understand their frustration, but until we receive payment, we cannot pay them,” one official stated. An accountant within the organization noted efforts to resolve the issue before Christmas but could provide no guarantees, citing complete dependence on government disbursements.

    The security company representatives detailed a pattern of chronic underpayment, explaining that even before the recent government transition, payments were consistently delayed. When partial payments arrived, they typically represented merely five percent of invoiced amounts. “When we received a payment last month, we immediately distributed it to staff,” a representative emphasized.

    NCRHA chairman Dr. Tim Gopeesingh attributed the crisis to what he characterized as years of financial mismanagement predating his administration. He revealed the authority inherited debts totaling $321 million owed to 521 service providers. While the current board has reduced this number to approximately 100 suppliers through structured repayments approved by the Ministry of Health, significant challenges remain.

    Gopeesingh identified systemic procurement irregularities as the core issue, uncovering security companies operating without formal contracts for 18 years and cleaning services functioning without contracts since 2017. These services cost the authority approximately $32 million and $44 million annually respectively, without proper documentation.

    “We cannot authorize payments without valid contracts and verification of delivered services,” Gopeesingh stated. “To do otherwise would constitute financial negligence.” The NCRHA is now strictly adhering to procurement legislation and considering an external professional audit to investigate historical spending practices that diverted resources from patient care. Criminal investigations remain possible as enquiries continue.

  • OWTU stands up for PriceSmart cashiers – ‘give them chairs’

    OWTU stands up for PriceSmart cashiers – ‘give them chairs’

    PORT OF SPAIN – In a remarkable display of labor advocacy, Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) members staged protests outside PriceSmart’s Trinidad outlets on December 19, demanding basic seating accommodations for cashiers rather than traditional wage-related benefits. The demonstration highlighted a 15-year unresolved struggle that has left over 100 local cashiers standing throughout their eight-hour shifts while their counterparts in Jamaica and Barbados enjoy seated positions.

    Union officials presented disturbing health implications stemming from the prolonged standing requirement. Second Vice President Reesa Ramlogan-Jodha detailed numerous cases of chronic back pain, varicose veins, and even pregnancy complications among cashiers. “Having to leave the workplace in pain should not be required as evidence of a productive day,” she asserted, emphasizing concerns about long-term mobility issues that could force workers to “be walking around with sticks” in their senior years.

    The conflict has now reached Trinidad’s Industrial Court as an official trade dispute, though progress remains stalled. First Vice President Sati Gajadhar-Inniss revealed that PriceSmart has failed to submit required evidence or arguments, pushing the next potential hearing to March 2026. The company maintains that without specific legislation mandating seating, no obligation exists to provide such accommodations.

    PriceSmart’s corporate stance suggests seating might interfere with cashiers’ ability to handle merchandise—a position the union characterizes as lacking compassion. Ramlogan-Jodha countered, “The issue of seating should not be a matter of law. It is a matter of choice and all it calls for is some heart.”

    This labor dispute emerges against the backdrop of PriceSmart’s substantial financial success. The American retailer reported $1 billion in fourth-quarter revenue for fiscal 2025 with $31.5 million net income, culminating in annual revenues approaching $5.27 billion. The company continues expanding its global footprint of 56 warehouse clubs, recently acquiring properties in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic for new locations set to open in mid-2026.

    OWTU officials plan to extend their advocacy campaign to all PriceSmart branches across Trinidad. Meanwhile, attempts by Newsday to obtain comments from PriceSmart’s human resources and industrial relations departments on December 19 proved unsuccessful, with managers at multiple locations declining to address the concerns.

  • PNM, IDA candidates file papers

    PNM, IDA candidates file papers

    Political factions in Tobago have formally initiated their campaigns for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. The nomination process unfolded smoothly across multiple venues on Friday, setting the stage for a highly contested political battle.

    Ancil Dennis, Political Leader of the PNM Tobago Council and candidate for Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, expressed unwavering confidence in his party’s prospects. Following the submission of his nomination papers at the Buccoo Multipurpose Centre, Dennis declared that the Progressive National Movement (PNM) anticipates reclaiming governance. He launched a sharp critique against the incumbent Tobago People’s Party (TPP), alleging significant regression across all developmental sectors during their four-year tenure. “Every sector in Tobago has gone backwards significantly – tourism, agriculture, construction – you name it. I believe the people of Tobago would make the right decision, which is a change,” Dennis asserted.

    The PNM’s campaign received bolstering support from party stalwart Pennelope Beckles, who emphasized the party’s positive energy and expectation of victory. Beckles highlighted the strength of the PNM’s candidate roster, which includes Dexter Miller (Bagatelle/Bacolet), Carl McEwen (Belle Garden/Glamorgan), and Karyn Forbes (Plymouth/Black Rock) among others.

    Simultaneously, at the Calder Hall Multipurpose Facility, the Innovative Democratic Alliance (IDA) completed its nomination process with equal optimism. Political Leader Denise Tsoiafatt-Angus praised the Election and Boundaries Commission (EBC) for their professional handling of the application procedure, awarding them perfect marks for efficiency. The IDA is contesting with eleven candidates across various electoral districts, including Tsoiafatt-Angus herself in Scarborough/Mt Grace, Stacy Herbert in Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, and Mauricia Douglas in Signal Hill/Patience Hill.

    The convergence of these political activities signals Tobago’s readiness for a transformative electoral process that will determine the island’s administrative direction for the coming term.

  • Nomination Day over – Fight for Tobago truly underway

    Nomination Day over – Fight for Tobago truly underway

    The political contest for control of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) officially commenced on Friday as candidates from the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) successfully submitted their nomination documents at the Glamorgan Multipurpose Facility.

    Chief Secretary and TPP political leader Farley Augustine expressed satisfaction with the efficient nomination process, describing it as thoroughly organized. ‘All prospective candidates underwent a preparatory session with the Election and Boundaries Commission (EBC) last week,’ Augustine revealed. ‘This preliminary review ensured all documentation was properly certified and helped alleviate any pre-filing apprehensions.’

    Augustine, who filed his nomination for the Parlatuvier/L’Anse Fourmi/Speyside electoral district, conveyed strong confidence in his party’s electoral prospects. The TPP has implemented strategic measures by pairing candidates with experienced campaign managers and election agents to optimize their electoral performance.

    Addressing voter participation expectations, Augustine projected significantly higher turnout rates compared to April’s general elections. ‘Tobagonians demonstrate greater engagement in THA elections because the assembly directly impacts their daily lives—from road maintenance and healthcare to educational services and social support systems,’ he explained.

    When questioned about governance challenges during his administration’s tenure, Augustine acknowledged difficulties but emphasized his team’s resilience. ‘We faced numerous tests of our capabilities, but our consistent stability throughout these challenges demonstrates the strength of Tobago’s leadership,’ he stated.

    The TPP’s complete candidate roster includes fifteen contenders across various electoral districts, with the critical assembly election scheduled for January 12, which will determine Tobago’s governance for the forthcoming four-year term.

  • 3×3 GENESIS basketball tournament begins in Arima

    3×3 GENESIS basketball tournament begins in Arima

    The Princess Royal Basketball Court in Arima is set to host the third annual GENESIS 3X3 Under-18 Men’s Basketball Series commencing December 20, featuring over 30 young athletes competing in the dynamic format of 3×3 basketball. Organized by the New Chapter Global Sport Academy (NCA), the tournament represents a strategic initiative to develop Trinidad and Tobago’s future basketball talent.

    Following the established format of previous editions, the competition features eight teams internally drafted from NCA’s Under-18 talent pool during a selection process held on December 18. The teams, including The Ark Builders, The Chosen Few, and The Gideon Warriors among others, underwent intensive 3×3 match preparation on December 19 ahead of the competitive tip-off.

    This initiative serves as a cornerstone of NCA’s long-term strategy to bolster Trinidad and Tobago’s presence on the international 3×3 basketball stage. The academy’s media release emphasized that sustained, age-specific competition is crucial for improving the nation’s future qualification prospects for premier global tournaments. This focus comes in the wake of Trinidad and Tobago’s single qualification for the FIBA 3X3 Under-18 World Cup in Debrecen, Hungary, back in 2022.

    The NCA has reaffirmed its commitment to mounting a significant push for qualification for the marquee youth tournament starting with the 2026 edition. The GENESIS series forms part of the academy’s expanding 3×3 program portfolio, specifically designed to provide young athletes with meaningful competitive exposure, repetitive high-level experience, and a clear developmental pathway toward international competition.

    The complete team rosters for the 2024 GENESIS tournament are: The Ark Builders (Marek Bengochea, Lance Crouch, Zion Roberts, Shemuel Welsh), The Chosen Few (Samuel Edwards, Jervais Edwards-Caracciolo, Matthias Phillips, Kai Sunich), The Gideon Warriors (Raiden Charles, Dillon Harrington, Iseyah Jobe, James Saul), The Lions of Judah (Alexie Alexis, Josiah Drayton, Jayden Forbes, Nhyim Pierre), The Mighty Men (Taalib Daniel, Tishad Gamero, Micah Pemberton, Jaden Russell), The Sent Ones (Josiah John-Andrew, Gabriel Goden, Xavier Jack, Jacob Knutt), The Sons of Isaac (Elijah Bruce, Jurell Charles, Zayden Charles, Nikholai Cunin), and The Watchmen (Kymani Herbert, Ranaan Howard, Edgar Torcatty, Antonio Vasquez).

  • EBC: 42 candidates file for THA elections

    EBC: 42 candidates file for THA elections

    The political landscape in Tobago is poised for a significant electoral contest as 42 candidates officially enter the race for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. According to an official disclosure from the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) on December 19, the nomination process concluded successfully across the island following established electoral protocols.

    Four distinct political parties have thrown their hats into the ring, setting the stage for a multifaceted competition. The People’s National Movement (PNM) and the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) have demonstrated comprehensive electoral ambitions by fielding candidates in all 15 available constituencies. Meanwhile, the Innovative Democratic Alliance has entered the fray with 11 nominated candidates, indicating strategic participation across key districts. The Unity of the People party completes the political spectrum with a single candidate nomination.

    The EBC confirmed that Nomination Day proceedings on Friday unfolded without incident, reflecting the commission’s adherence to transparent and efficient electoral management. This smooth operational execution underscores the commission’s commitment to maintaining electoral integrity throughout the pre-election period.

    This election represents a crucial political event for Tobago’s governance structure, with the outcome determining the assembly’s composition and leadership direction for the coming term. The substantial candidate participation across multiple parties suggests a robust democratic process and potentially competitive outcomes across various electoral districts.

  • PM: Not one cent of State $$ spent on celebrations

    PM: Not one cent of State $$ spent on celebrations

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has categorically refuted allegations that government funds were utilized to finance her political party’s holiday festivities. The United National Congress (UNC) leader addressed these claims during the party’s Christmas Supper event held at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s on December 18.

    In her definitive statement to attendees, Persad-Bissessar declared, ‘Not one cent of government money has been expended on this Christmas Supper.’ She further challenged critics who accused her administration of extravagant spending and insensitivity toward ordinary citizens amid ongoing economic challenges.

    The Prime Minister elaborated on the funding mechanism, revealing that proceeds from a previous UNC fundraising dinner in Couva on December 13 directly financed the current event. ‘Every attendee who purchased tickets for that occasion essentially funded tonight’s gathering through their contributions,’ she explained, emphasizing the self-sustaining nature of the party’s celebrations.

    Addressing concerns about perceived neglect since the UNC’s electoral victory on April 28, Persad-Bissessar offered a public apology while defending her government’s intensive workload. ‘The work was intense and the time was so short,’ she acknowledged before assuring citizens, ‘We will never ever forget you.’ The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of government spending and political accountability in Trinidad and Tobago.

  • ISSA’s plate may be crowded, but its capacity to cope is beyond doubt

    ISSA’s plate may be crowded, but its capacity to cope is beyond doubt

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s late October devastation, Jamaica’s educational community has demonstrated remarkable resilience through the timely resumption of interscholastic athletics. The decision by the Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) to proceed with championship events has provided both participants and spectators with crucial psychological relief during recovery efforts.

    Child development specialist Professor Maureen Samms-Vaughn of The University of the West Indies recently emphasized the therapeutic value of recreational activities, noting that “children who play are more resilient to toxic stress and can better cope with adversity.” This psychological principle appears equally applicable to adolescents and adults, with competitive sports serving as both participatory and observational stress-relief mechanisms following traumatic events.

    The organizational achievement of ISSA deserves particular recognition given substantial logistical challenges. Despite Hurricane Melissa’s disruption during peak competition season, the association successfully orchestrated multiple championship matches before term conclusion. Friday’s netball championships featured defending senior champions Holmwood Technical against Gaynstead High, while Wolmer’s Girls’ faced Denbigh High at junior level.

    Football championships reached their climax with St. Elizabeth Technical High School (from hurricane-ravaged St. Elizabeth) confronting Glenmuir High in Saturday’s rural daCosta Cup final. The urban Manning Cup final showcased Jamaica College versus Excelsior High at identical venues. Supplementary competitions included Cornwall College versus Clarendon College for the Ben Francis Cup and St. Catherine High’s victory over Mona High in the Walker Cup.

    The hurricane’s scheduling impact will extend into January 2025, with the prestigious Olivier Shield matchup between Manning and daCosta Cup champions scheduled post-holiday break. The Champions Cup for top rural and urban schools may follow, creating unprecedented scheduling density when combined with traditional early-year track, field and cricket events. ISSA’s demonstrated organizational capability suggests readiness for these compounded challenges.

  • Uplift dreams of international success with Fantasy

    Uplift dreams of international success with Fantasy

    Jamaican-Canadian dancehall performer Uplift is projecting international stardom through his latest collaborative single “Fantasy” featuring Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Pupa Tee. The track, born from transcontinental digital collaboration, represents a strategic fusion of Caribbean and African musical traditions.

    Uplift revealed the organic evolution of the project, explaining how the initial demo composed years earlier found its perfect counterpart in Pupa Tee’s Afrobeat influences. “Our online connection transformed into creative synergy when he embraced the demo version,” Uplift recounted. “The final mix immediately convinced us we had crafted something with genuine global appeal.”

    Released through his independent label Uplift Entertainment, the single arrives accompanied by visually captivating footage shot in Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling cultural capital. The production showcases authentic African landscapes while maintaining dancehall’s distinctive rhythmic foundation.

    Current metrics substantiate the artist’s optimism. Strategic promotional campaigns across Jamaica, Canada, African markets, the United States, England, and European territories are generating substantial traction. Spotify streaming data reveals a remarkable surge over the past eight weeks, with parallel growth observed across Uplift’s broader discography. YouTube viewership metrics similarly demonstrate encouraging engagement patterns.

    The St Elizabeth-born, Canada-based artist simultaneously confirmed development of multiple new projects scheduled for 2026 releases. While remaining discreet about specific details, Uplift hinted at potential EP or album releases alongside additional singles, positioning the coming year as potentially transformative for his artistic career.

    Previous notable works include collaborative tracks “Infinite” with reggae vocalist Hezron, “Call Me” featuring Tallis, and the solo effort “Ride With Me,” all contributing to his expanding international footprint.