Carib Scope

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  • Strikers U19 face Titans as Under-23 Cup resumes

    Strikers U19 face Titans as Under-23 Cup resumes

    The Cricket West Indies/TT Cricket Board Under-23 Cup makes its anticipated return on December 9 with a rescheduled second-round showdown between Soca Strikers Under-19 and Steelpan Titans at Balmain’s National Cricket Centre in Couva.

    Originally slated for December 6, this critical match became the tournament’s third weather-related postponement in four scheduled games, highlighting the disruptive impact of seasonal rainfall on Caribbean cricket calendars.

    Soca Strikers U19 enter the contest with formidable momentum following their dominant nine-wicket victory over Scarlet Blazers in the tournament opener – the only match thus far to reach a conclusive result. Their previous performance demonstrated exceptional all-round capabilities with both bat and ball.

    During that opening match at Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Blazers posted 190 all out in 41.2 overs, thanks primarily to Sachin Emrit’s unbeaten 50 and R Yearwood’s contribution of 39 runs. The bowling attack proved decisive as Brendan Boodoo delivered a spectacular performance, claiming 5/21, supported by Saleem Khan’s 2/37.

    The chase became a masterclass in controlled batting as Khan remained undefeated with 107 runs from 109 deliveries, partnered by Aadi Ramsaran’s equally impressive 61 not out from 68 balls. Their unbeaten partnership guided Soca Strikers to a commanding 196/1 in just 36.2 overs.

    Tournament scheduling continues to face challenges as the initial first-round match between Steelpan Titans and Cocrico Warriors suffered similar weather disruptions, with its December 6 rescheduling also falling victim to precipitation. The following day’s second-round encounter between Cocrico Warriors and Scarlet Blazers began but ultimately succumbed to weather after Blazers reached 177/2 in 33.2 overs, featuring half-centuries from Yearwood (54) and Rajeev Ramnath (51 not out).

    Following the December 9 fixture, the tournament progresses immediately to third-round matches on December 10, featuring Titans versus Blazers at NCC and Strikers U19 confronting Warriors at Tarouba.

  • Justin Bridgemohan 24th on debut at World Sailing Inclusion Champs

    Justin Bridgemohan 24th on debut at World Sailing Inclusion Champs

    In a landmark moment for Trinidad and Tobago sailing, Justin Bridgemohan concluded his inaugural appearance at the 2025 World Sailing Inclusion Championships with a 24th-place finish in the inclusive one-person championship division. The historic event, held at the Mussanah Sailing School in Oman on December 8, marked the Caribbean nation’s first-ever representation in para-sailing at this elite international level.

    Competing under the banner of the Andrew Lewis Sailing Foundation, Bridgemohan demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout nine challenging rounds, ultimately accumulating a net score of 59. His campaign began with an unfortunate disqualification in the opening race after his vessel made contact with a marker. Undeterred by this setback, the debutant sailor mounted an impressive comeback, achieving consistently strong placements of eighth, ninth, 11th, fifth, 11th, sixth, second, and seventh in subsequent races.

    Notably, without the initial disqualification, statistical analysis indicates Bridgemohan would have secured a position within the championship’s top 20 competitors. This performance becomes even more extraordinary considering the athlete has only been sailing for three months through the Andrew Lewis Sailing Academy’s local training program.

    Bridgemohan’s journey to international competition began through the mentorship of coach Kristoff Stuven, a former national sailor, who recognized his potential despite the athlete’s recent introduction to the sport. In a post-competition interview from Oman, Bridgemohan appealed for public support to sustain his developing career, identifying the 2032 Brisbane Paralympics as his ultimate objective.

    The pioneering sailor extended gratitude to multiple supporters including TT Paralympics Committee president Sudhir Ramesar, coach Stuven for expedition coordination, mentor Andrew Lewis, trainer Yannick Along, his family, and the Trinidad and Tobago Yachting Association for advancing para-sailing initiatives.

  • Windies’ Greaves takes page from New Zealand duo’s book

    Windies’ Greaves takes page from New Zealand duo’s book

    In a stunning display of resilience, West Indies cricketer Justin Greaves has revealed the strategic inspiration behind his match-saving performance that secured a dramatic draw against New Zealand in the first Test at Christchurch. The remarkable comeback, achieved while chasing an unprecedented 531 runs, has been hailed as one of Test cricket’s most memorable escapes.

    Greaves, whose unbeaten 202 formed the cornerstone of West Indies’ improbable recovery, credited his meticulous observation of New Zealand batsmen Tom Latham and Rachin Ravindra for providing the tactical template. “I studied how both Tom Latham and Rachin applied themselves on the pitch,” Greaves explained. “I took a page from each batter’s book – Tom’s exceptional patience combined with Rachin’s shot execution capability.”

    The Caribbean team’s prospects appeared bleak on day four when they stumbled to 72/4, facing what would have been the highest successful run chase in Test history. However, Greaves forged critical partnerships with captain Shai Hope (140) and tailender Kemar Roach, who contributed a maiden Test half-century of 58 not out. The collective effort propelled West Indies to 457/6 by the conclusion, denying New Zealand victory.

    Reflecting on the tense final sessions, Greaves acknowledged the calculated shift in strategy after losing Hope and Tevin Imlach in quick succession. “We initially aimed for victory with Shai, but after those wickets, our focus shifted to taking the game as deep as possible,” he stated. “We didn’t want to leave the outcome dependent on our bowlers, so securing the draw became a significant achievement.”

    The 29-year-old all-rounder, who made his Test debut just eleven months ago, emphasized the substantial leap from regional first-class cricket to the international arena. “Test cricket is considerably more demanding both physically and mentally,” Greaves noted. “I’ve had to completely transform my training approach regarding strength, conditioning, and technical skills.”

    Greaves also identified former world-ranked all-rounder Jason Holder as an influential mentor as he continues developing his dual batting and medium-pace bowling capabilities. Looking ahead to the second Test commencing December 9 in Wellington, Greaves anticipates similar pitch conditions and emphasizes maintaining disciplined processes that served the team effectively in Christchurch.

  • Couple snatched from Monos Island home:US$2.5m ransom demand

    Couple snatched from Monos Island home:US$2.5m ransom demand

    A distressing kidnapping case has shaken the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago as former powerboat racing champion Derek “Stones” Tardieu, 70, and his wife Clarabelle, 47, remain captive after being abducted from their Monos Island residence on December 6th. The kidnappers have demanded a substantial ransom of US$2.5 million for their safe release, according to official reports.

    The ordeal began when a harrowing voice message reached a family member’s phone from an unknown number at approximately 9:44 PM on December 6th. In the recording, Tardieu could be heard stating, “They have meh and want US$2.5 million for meh release.” This prompted his son to immediately visit the couple’s Blanchette Bay home, where he discovered the residence thoroughly ransacked and both occupants missing.

    Subsequently, a disturbing video surfaced on social media platforms showing the couple under duress, with firearms pointed at their heads and an individual holding a grenade. While the captors’ faces remained concealed, Tardieu was audibly distressed, pleading with his brother Robert: “Robert, please, my life… oh God, oh God.”

    The situation is particularly grave due to Tardieu’s critical health condition. The former racing legend suffers from severe cardiac issues and a brain tumor requiring consistent medication, raising urgent concerns about his wellbeing in captivity.

    Family members and the local community have expressed profound shock and devastation. Jonathan Tardieu, former president of the TT Powerboat Association and nephew of the victim, described the incident as completely unexpected. “His whole life he’s been on Monos, more than 20 years. Everybody wants him back safe,” he told reporters.

    The kidnapping has escalated to involve national security considerations, with Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales calling for governmental transparency regarding collaboration with Venezuelan authorities. “Venezuela is our closest neighbour. We have to collaborate with our neighbors and allies,” Gonzales emphasized, highlighting the potential cross-border dimensions of the case.

    Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro has designated the investigation as top priority, stating that specialized units are actively pursuing all leads. “Kidnapping for ransom will be met with decisive action and police remain fully committed to protecting citizens and bringing perpetrators to justice,” Guevarro affirmed in an official communication.

    Authorities continue to urge public assistance while maintaining tight operational security around the investigation. The family and community await any breakthrough with hopeful apprehension, praying for the safe return of the beloved local figure and his wife.

  • SFBA welcomes refinery restart as government reviews reactivation plan

    SFBA welcomes refinery restart as government reviews reactivation plan

    The San Fernando Business Association (SFBA) has enthusiastically endorsed the Trinidadian government’s decision to recommission the Pointe-a-Pierre petroleum refinery, characterizing the move as a crucial economic stimulus for southern Trinidad and a transformative development for national prosperity.

    SFBA President Daphne Bartlett, in an official December 7 statement, expressed the association’s profound satisfaction with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration for honoring its campaign commitment to restart refinery operations. Bartlett emphasized that the facility’s 2018 closure severely disrupted foreign exchange revenues, paralyzed ancillary industries, and exacerbated resource allocation challenges.

    “During its operational peak, the refinery generated substantial profitability through aviation fuel exports and international sales, earning critical foreign currency,” Bartlett explained. “Domestically, we utilized Trinidad and Tobago dollars for fuel purchases while bitumen by-products maintained our road infrastructure. Since the shutdown, we’ve been forced to import these commodities with limited foreign reserves, directly contributing to our deteriorating road conditions.”

    Bartlett further highlighted the reactivation’s potential to revitalize adjacent communities historically dependent on Petrotrin and its supply chain for employment. “Economic activity generates commercial vitality. Enterprises throughout the San Fernando region will experience renewed growth, and secondary operations will reactivate. This initiative represents a comprehensive national advantage,” she affirmed.

    Addressing feedstock concerns, Bartlett noted the refinery’s historical reliance on imported crude to supplement domestic production. With emerging oil producers like Guyana and Suriname, plus potential Venezuelan supply partnerships, she expressed confidence in sustainable operational continuity. “The reopening illuminates a prosperous future. We appreciate the Prime Minister’s exemplary seasonal offering,” Bartlett concluded.

    The business endorsement coincides with governmental advances in the reactivation process. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar convened with the refinery recommissioning committee—chaired by former energy minister Kevin Ramnarine—at the Diplomatic Centre on December 5 to evaluate progress. She reiterated commitments to procedural transparency and assured citizens that national interests would remain paramount.

    Photographs from the December 4 meeting depicted Persad-Bissessar, Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal, and committee members examining interim strategic recommendations. Moonilal previously indicated that technical feasibility evaluations would conclude in early December, informing decisions regarding implementation schedules, financial investments, and capital needs.

    Preliminary estimates suggest partial production could restart within 12-18 months, with complete operational restoration anticipated within three years. “We expect the assessment to deliver thorough analysis and a definitive strategic roadmap,” Moonilal stated, emphasizing that fiscal allocations and capital investments remain pivotal factors.

    The refinery, formerly a cornerstone of Trinidad and Tobago’s economy, ceased operations in November 2018 during Petrotrin’s restructuring into Trinidad Petroleum Holdings Ltd. Its restoration constitutes one of the current administration’s most significant industrial projects, drawing intense scrutiny from energy sector participants, labor organizations, and regional allies.

    As committee deliberations continue, the Prime Minister has guaranteed ongoing public updates—a commitment aligning with SFBA’s advocacy for economic confidence and regional rejuvenation in southern Trinidad.

  • Chambers call for fair forex distribution as Eximbank CEO axed

    Chambers call for fair forex distribution as Eximbank CEO axed

    In the wake of Navin Dookeran’s abrupt termination as CEO of Eximbank, Trinidad and Tobago’s business chambers are urgently calling for fundamental reforms in foreign exchange allocation policies. The newly appointed board, chaired by Edwin Chariah with Suresh Maharaj as deputy chairman, now faces mounting pressure to establish more equitable distribution mechanisms that serve a broader spectrum of the business community.

    Vivek Charran, President of the Confederation of Regional Business Chambers, emphasized the critical nature of this transition: ‘Our primary concern is ensuring this new administration develops a fair and balanced approach to forex distribution for our most vulnerable enterprises. We’re discussing generational family businesses and retail SMEs that are fundamentally fighting for survival.’

    The business community’s consensus reveals deep-seated frustrations with the previous system’s limitations. Ramon Gregorio of the Greater Tunapuna Chamber of Industry and Commerce noted the essential balancing act required: ‘This is about reconciling the needs of large manufacturers with enabling SMEs to develop into larger organizations. Achieving proper equity and balance remains our central advocacy point.’

    Baldath Maharaj of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce stressed the institutional requirements for effective reform: ‘Our chamber consistently emphasizes fairness, predictability, and transparency in allocation processes. Whatever strategic direction emerges, businesses must have confidence in an equitable and accessible system—this stability is indispensable for investment, growth, and national development.’

    The chambers collectively expressed hope that the new directorship would expand forex allocation policies beyond the manufacturing sector to include goods and services industries frequently excluded from the equation. Gregorio added, ‘We urgently need a holistic approach that addresses the distinct challenges all sectors face in securing foreign exchange.’

    Despite understanding the underlying forex shortages and national challenges, business leaders highlighted the practical realities: many retailers and manufacturers depend on Eximbank’s window to maintain operations, meet payroll obligations, and settle long-pending foreign supplier invoices. Charran revealed that during previous meetings with bank officials and former Finance Minister Colm Imbert, chambers were explicitly told no forex was available despite the operating window—with indications that stricter controls might be implemented.

    Regarding leadership transition, chambers expressed confidence in the board’s diligence in selecting a replacement CEO while emphasizing the need for continuity. Maharaj noted, ‘History demonstrates that leadership transitions involve adjustment periods. We need a CEO with substantial expertise in export development and manufacturing who can maintain operational continuity while addressing the immediate needs of the business community.’

    Dookeran, when contacted for comment, referred to a previous article expressing pride in his accomplishments since his 2019 appointment but declined further statement. The business community’s unified message remains clear: systemic reform, not personnel changes, represents the true path toward resolving Trinidad and Tobago’s foreign exchange distribution challenges.

  • German Foreign Office issues travel alert for Trinidad and Tobago

    German Foreign Office issues travel alert for Trinidad and Tobago

    The German Federal Foreign Office has elevated travel advisories for four nations, including Trinidad and Tobago, Greece, Thailand, and Bulgaria, citing heightened security risks. Issued on December 7 through the official ‘Sicher Reisen’ (Travel Safely) application, these alerts highlight specific regional threats without imposing formal travel bans.

    According to VisaHQ’s analysis, the advisory references political demonstrations in Greece, separatist conflicts in southern Thailand, increased street protests and enhanced border surveillance in Bulgaria, and Trinidad and Tobago’s prolonged state of emergency. While not prohibiting travel outright, German businesses with operations in shipping, energy, or agricultural technology sectors—particularly those deploying personnel to Thessaloniki, Bangkok, or Port of Spain—are advised to reassess emergency protocols, implement split-team strategies, and maintain robust communication systems.

    The advisory introduces new identification requirements, noting that German travelers may encounter random checks for electronic passports or EU national ID cards at roadblocks, ferry terminals, and regional airports. The ministry further warns that sudden curfews or public order mandates could necessitate abrupt itinerary changes.

    Although airlines have maintained regular schedules, travel agencies report increased re-bookings to alternative destinations like Spain and the Canary Islands. Expatriates in affected regions are urged to register with German embassies and restrict non-essential movement during periods of civil unrest.

    Responding to the travel alert, Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association president Reginald MacLean emphasized that Tobago has experienced a 70-75% reduction in criminal activity since the state of emergency implementation. “Tobago is safer than before and fully open for business,” MacLean stated, noting strong booking numbers on Condor Airlines’ German routes through April 2025.

    MacLean addressed the complex geopolitical position regarding Venezuela, noting Trinidad and Tobago’s challenging position between its largest trading partner (the United States) and its neighboring nation. He expressed hope that enhanced security measures would ultimately reduce drug-related crime and improve safety across both islands.

  • Duke: PDP will not contest Jan 12 THA polls

    Duke: PDP will not contest Jan 12 THA polls

    In a significant political realignment, Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) leader Watson Duke has announced his party’s withdrawal from the upcoming January 12 Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections, opting instead to endorse the ruling Tobago People’s Party (TPP). The declaration came during a spirited media conference outside Duke’s Port Mall office in Scarborough on December 8, where he was flanked by vocal supporters.

    While confirming the strategic shift, Duke maintained characteristic ambiguity regarding formal candidate nominations. He acknowledged the diminished influence of his party’s flambeaux symbol while artfully dodging direct questions about fielding candidates. His 20-minute address blended political rhetoric with biblical references and personal parables, creating a theatrical atmosphere underscored by enthusiastic supporter responses.

    The political reconciliation stems from a pivotal phone conversation with TPP leader and Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, whom Duke alternately referred to as ‘son’ and ‘brother’ throughout his address. Duke revealed that this discussion prompted profound reflection about preventing the People’s National Movement (PNM) from returning to power. ‘I slept on it, I rolled on it, I prayed on it,’ Duke declared, emphasizing familial loyalty over political分歧.

    Despite acknowledging the ‘hurt and pain’ from previous betrayals when PDP assemblymen defected to form the TPP under Augustine’s leadership, Duke pledged forgiveness while vowing to remember these experiences. He positioned himself as continuing to ‘stand in defense of the defenseless’ and encouraged supporters to maintain their identity as ‘the salt of the earth’—invoking Matthew 5:13 to underscore their enduring value.

    The PDP leader outlined an aggressive campaign strategy to secure all 15 seats for the TPP, promising to reach ‘the highways and byways, the nooks and crannies’ to mobilize marginalized voters. When pressed for explicit voting instructions, Duke challenged journalists to ‘write the headlines yourselves,’ maintaining his theatrical delivery while making the endorsement unmistakably clear.

    Duke framed the alliance as resuming a shared dream that had temporarily derailed, comparing it to waking from an incomplete dream and choosing to return to it. ‘Family is family,’ he asserted, acknowledging Augustine’s flaws while emphasizing tribal loyalty. He concluded with a colorful promise to defeat the PNM ‘black until they blue,’ referencing the parties’ respective colors.

  • Parliament debates fireworks, finance in simultaneous sittings on December 9

    Parliament debates fireworks, finance in simultaneous sittings on December 9

    Trinidad and Tobago’s bicameral parliament is set to hold simultaneous sessions on December 9, with both the House of Representatives and Senate convening at 1:30 PM. The Senate will deliberate on the Finance Bill 2025 while the House debates the Summary Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2025, marking the second such dual sitting within a week.

    The proposed fireworks legislation establishes a comprehensive permit system administered by the Commissioner of Police, with specific exemptions for holiday celebrations. The bill permits fireworks without permits on public holidays between 8-9 PM and on December 31 from 11:30 PM to 12:30 AM on New Year’s Day. The legislation explicitly prohibits fireworks discharge within a half-mile radius of animal shelters, zoos, farms, forest reserves, national parks, hospitals, and airports.

    This legislative activity follows the December 5 simultaneous sessions that addressed the Finance Bill and the Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill, 2025. Government officials, including Leader of Government Business Barry Padarath and Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales, have characterized the concurrent sittings as procedurally normal.

    The Finance Bill implements revenue measures initially proposed in Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s October budget presentation, including immediate customs duty increases on alcohol and tobacco products. Additional measures scheduled for January 2026 implementation include National Insurance System rate increases, electrical surcharges for commercial customers, and banking sector levies.

    The legislation has sparked political controversy, with former finance minister Colm Imbert condemning the measures as “an avalanche of new taxes” and “wickedness” in social media statements. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles similarly criticized the provisions as “ill-conceived” measures that would “inflict further pain” on citizens. Minister Tancoo has dismissed these criticisms, maintaining the government’s position on the fiscal measures.

  • ABWU President Kem Riley Elected 3rd Vice-President of Caribbean Congress of Labour

    ABWU President Kem Riley Elected 3rd Vice-President of Caribbean Congress of Labour

    In a significant development for Caribbean labor representation, Kem Riley, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU), has achieved a landmark electoral victory. Riley was elected to the prestigious position of 3rd Vice-President of the Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) during the organization’s 22nd Triennial Delegates Conference in Trinidad and Tobago.

    The conference, operating under the unifying theme ‘One Caribbean, One Voice: Advancing Workers’ Rights through Governance and Solidarity’, served as a gathering point for labor representatives throughout the region. Riley attended the proceedings alongside ABWU delegates Joshua Pigott and Chenise Lewis, participating in critical dialogues aimed at enhancing worker protections and fostering collaborative initiatives across Caribbean nations.

    This electoral achievement represents a substantial elevation of Antigua and Barbuda’s profile within regional labor governance structures. The ABWU has characterized Riley’s appointment as a transformative moment that will amplify the nation’s voice in pan-Caribbean labor discussions. The new position enables direct input into policy formulation and strategic decision-making processes affecting workers throughout the Caribbean community.

    The CCL conference agenda focused on developing comprehensive strategies to address contemporary labor challenges, including the evolution of workplace regulations, social protection frameworks, and collective bargaining mechanisms in an increasingly integrated regional economy.