The Prison Officers’ Association (POA) has expressed cautious support for the government’s proposal to modernize the correctional system by demolishing existing prisons and constructing a centralized ‘justice centre’ in Tamana. POA President Gerald Gordon emphasized that while the initiative aligns with modernization goals, it must be approached with careful planning, robust research, and genuine consultation with frontline officers. Speaking to Newsday on November 7, Gordon highlighted potential benefits such as standardized services and improved infrastructure but warned of significant logistical, financial, and operational risks. He stressed that the proposal lacks demonstrated practicality and feasibility studies, particularly given the unique distribution of the prison population and the challenges of centralizing operations. Gordon outlined concerns including increased commute distances for officers, reduced family access for inmates, and potential security vulnerabilities. He also noted that international best practices are shifting away from mega-facilities toward smaller, specialized campuses. The POA supports integrating modern technologies like AI surveillance and biometric access but insists that any reform must prioritize officer well-being, rehabilitation services, and local context. Gordon described the proposed mid-2026 construction timeline as overly ambitious and called for comprehensive feasibility studies, stakeholder consultations, and phased implementation to ensure operational continuity. He reiterated the POA’s readiness to contribute to meaningful dialogue, emphasizing that successful reform must be evidence-based, economically sound, and designed with the realities of the correctional system in mind.
作者： admin
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Tobago chamber: Do not depend only on October carnival for $$$
The Tobago Business Chamber has emphasized the need for the island to develop sustainable and profitable ventures beyond its annual October carnival to ensure consistent economic growth. The fourth edition of the festival, ‘Unveiled: Mud, Mas and Music,’ held from October 26-28, drew thousands of visitors, both local and international, and was hailed as the most successful iteration to date since its inception in 2022. However, in a WhatsApp voice note on November 6, Martin George, the chamber’s chairman, highlighted the limitations of relying solely on a seasonal event for financial gains. He stressed that while the carnival is beginning to establish itself on the international stage, Tobago must diversify its tourism offerings to maintain year-round revenue streams. George pointed to Barbados as a model, citing its array of annual events such as the rum and food festival and Run Barbados, which attract tourists consistently. He also suggested that Tobago could capitalize on the growing trend of digital nomadism by improving its infrastructure, particularly high-speed Wi-Fi, to position itself as a paradise for remote workers. George urged stakeholders to adopt a more innovative and proactive approach, moving beyond complaints and creating opportunities to control their economic destiny. ‘Rather than coming with a begging bowl, we should be in control of the kitchen,’ he concluded, advocating for self-reliance and equitable distribution of resources.
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Sabgas ‘excited’ by Kamla’s plan
At the recent unveiling of Trinidad and Tobago’s Revitalisation Blueprint, Ansa McAl’s executive chairman, A. Norman Sabga, and his son, group CEO Anthony N. Sabga III, shared their optimism about the government’s ambitious plans. The blueprint, introduced by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, outlines over 100 construction projects aimed at creating more than 50,000 jobs and revitalizing key areas across the country. Sabga described the initiative as ‘huge’ and emphasized the importance of dreaming big to drive national progress. Speaking at the launch of Ansa McAl’s financial results for the year ending September 30, Sabga III echoed his father’s sentiments, calling the government’s vision ‘ambitious’ and ‘colourful.’ He highlighted the group’s commitment to supporting the government’s efforts, noting that Ansa McAl, which will celebrate its 145th anniversary next year, remains apolitical and focused on sustainable development. The blueprint includes projects such as transforming the Port of Spain waterfront, redeveloping Invaders Bay, and converting prisons into cultural centers and luxury resorts. The Sabgas’ matching yellow ties, coincidentally aligned with the ruling United National Congress’s color, sparked curiosity, but Sabga III dismissed any political connotations, emphasizing the group’s neutrality and dedication to economic growth.
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Trinidad and Tobago artistes miss out on Grammy nominations
Despite a robust presence of Trinidad and Tobago (TT) artists in the preliminary considerations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, none secured a nomination. The Recording Academy announced the nominees on November 7, revealing that 18 TT artists were in the running across various categories, including Best Global Music Performance, Best Reggae Album, and Best Jazz Instrumental. Notable contenders included Kes the Band, Machel Montano, and Freetown Collective, who were considered for multiple awards. Kes the Band was in contention for Best Global Music Performance with their track ‘Cocoa Tea,’ while Machel Montano was considered in four categories, including Best Global Music Album for ‘One Degree Hotter.’ Freetown Collective’s ‘Beyond the Machine’ was also a contender in the Best Global Music Album category. Other prominent names included Yung Bredda, Anika Berry, and Etienne Charles, who were considered for their contributions to global music, jazz, and instrumental compositions. Historically, TT has seen Grammy success with artists like Heather Headley and Billy Ocean, but this year’s nominations did not include any local talent. The extensive list of considerations highlights the vibrant and diverse musical talent emerging from TT, even though it did not translate into nominations this time.
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Yandy Stafford cops Trinidad and Tobago’s first-ever gold at Pan Am Artistic Gymnastics Cup
In a historic achievement for Trinidad and Tobago, young gymnast Yandy Stafford clinched the nation’s first-ever gold medal at the Pan American Junior and Youth Artistic Gymnastics Cup held in El Salvador on November 6. Stafford triumphed in the vault event, delivering a flawless performance that earned her a score of 13.35 and a place in the record books. This milestone marks a significant moment for Trinidad and Tobago in the realm of international gymnastics.
Stafford was part of a five-member national team that traveled to El Salvador on November 3 to compete against some of the region’s most talented young gymnasts. The team included Shanika Joseph, Asia Ali, Zariah Gittens-Dopwell, and Caeli La Roche, representing both the Pan American Gymnastics Union (PAGU) hopes level two and level one divisions. All five athletes participated in the all-around competition on November 5, with Stafford finishing fifth in her division with a total score of 46.75.
On the second day of competition, Stafford showcased her versatility by qualifying for three event finals: vault, beam, and floor. While she placed sixth in the floor exercise with a score of 11.45, her defining moment came during the vault finals. Executing a Yurchenko pike vault with precision and a perfect landing, Stafford secured the gold medal, a first for Trinidad and Tobago in this prestigious event. She later concluded her day with a seventh-place finish on the beam.
The Pan American Junior and Youth Artistic Gymnastics Cup is a biennial event aimed at preparing young athletes for senior elite competition by the age of 16. Following their strong performances in El Salvador, Stafford and her teammates are now gearing up for their next challenge: the 2025 Carifta Artistic Gymnastics Championships, which will be hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Gymnastics Federation (TTGF) in Couva on December 6 and 7.
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TTMA delegation prepares for trade mission to Chile
The Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) is set to embark on its inaugural trade mission to Chile from November 10 to 14, marking a significant step in expanding business opportunities and fostering economic ties with Latin America. The mission was officially celebrated during a reception hosted by Chilean Ambassador Hernán Núñez at his residence in Ellerslie Park, Maraval, on November 6. Ambassador Núñez emphasized the importance of this initiative, describing Chile as a nation with a globally open economy and a strategic gateway connecting the Caribbean to Asian markets. He highlighted Chile’s robust export figures, exceeding US$100 billion in 2024, and its network of 35 commercial attachés worldwide. TTMA CEO Dr. Mahindra Ramdeen noted that the delegation includes representatives from 14 companies across sectors such as agro-processing, chemicals, services, and health. He expressed optimism about forging lasting partnerships and accessing new markets. Ismail Ali, the mission’s leader, underscored the significance of this venture as TTMA’s first business engagement in South America, driven by three bilateral agreements signed last year. The mission aims to explore opportunities in Chile and beyond, with plans to expand into markets like Panama, Colombia, and other Caribbean nations. This initiative reflects TTMA’s broader strategy to internationalize Trinidad and Tobago’s manufacturing sector, building on recent successful trade missions to New York and the Trade Mission on the Seas 2025. The association has also outlined plans for additional missions to China and follow-up initiatives in New York, signaling a strong commitment to global economic collaboration.
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Caribbean Airlines unaffected by FAA orders to reduce flights
Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL) has confirmed that its operations remain unaffected despite recent guidance from the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) urging airlines to reduce flights at 40 of the nation’s busiest airports. The FAA’s directive, issued as the US government shutdown extended into its 38th day, calls for a ten per cent reduction in flights to alleviate congestion. CAL, which operates flights to and from four major US airports—John F. Kennedy (JFK) in New York, Miami International (MIA), Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), and Orlando International (MCO) in Florida—has assured passengers that all its US-bound and departing flights are proceeding as scheduled. However, the airline has advised travelers with connecting domestic flights within the US to stay in touch with their respective airline representatives for updates. CAL also encouraged passengers to register for real-time travel notifications via its official website and social media channels to stay informed. The FAA’s list of affected airports includes prominent hubs such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL), Los Angeles International (LAX), and Chicago O’Hare International (ORD), among others. While the broader aviation sector grapples with the impact of the shutdown, CAL remains steadfast in maintaining its service continuity.
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Four schools vie for honours as Royal Slam basketball reaches crescendo
The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the semifinals of the RBC Royal Slam College Basketball competition kick off on November 8 at the Eastern Regional Indoor Sporting Arena in Tacarigua. Four elite schools will battle for a spot in the championship, with Fatima College, Presentation College San Fernando, St Mary’s College, and Queen’s Royal College (QRC) vying for glory. The action begins at 4 pm with Fatima College taking on Presentation College, followed by St Mary’s College facing QRC at 6 pm. The stakes are high, as the winners will advance to the gold-medal match on November 9 at noon, while the third-place playoff will commence at 10 am. The semifinalists have little time to recover, making endurance and strategy crucial. Fatima College enters the semifinals with momentum, having dominated QRC 112-67 in their final preliminary-round game on October 26, thanks to standout performances from Williams Francis, Zachary Julien, and Idriis Martin. St Mary’s College also impressed, securing their Group B victory with a 96-83 win over St Anthony’s College on October 25, led by Nkobi Ince’s 35 points and Zane Peters’ 31 points. This weekend, one of these four teams will emerge victorious, claiming the prestigious RBC Royal Slam title and etching their name in college basketball history.
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San Juan North, Trinity draw 1-1 in SSFL rescheduled tie
In a tightly contested rescheduled Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premiership fixture, Trinity College (Moka) and San Juan North Secondary played to a 1-1 draw at Trinity College Grounds in Maraval on November 7. San Juan North, currently positioned 13th in the 16-team league, took the lead in the first half with a goal from Malique Marrast. However, Trinity Moka quickly responded as Anton Joseph equalized before halftime. Despite both teams pushing for a decisive goal in the second half, neither could break the stalemate, resulting in a shared point. The outcome had minimal impact on the league standings, with Trinity remaining in sixth place and San Juan North holding onto their 13th position, just two points above the relegation zone. Both teams have one league match remaining to conclude their campaigns.
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Police, Army lock horns in servicemen’s TTPFL derby
The TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) is set to witness an early-season blockbuster as defending champions Defence Force face off against title contenders Miscellaneous Police FC on November 9 at the St Police Barracks. The match, scheduled for 7 pm, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the league’s most formidable teams. Police FC has begun the 2025/26 season in dominant fashion, securing back-to-back victories. They opened their campaign with a resounding 4-0 win over San Juan Jabloteh on October 24, followed by a hard-fought 2-1 triumph against MIC Central FC Reboot on November 1. In contrast, Defence Force has struggled to find their rhythm, starting their title defense with two consecutive draws. They were held to a goalless stalemate by 2023/24 champions AC Port of Spain in their opener and then squandered a lead to draw 2-2 with FC Eagles on October 31, conceding a late stoppage-time goal. Despite their slow start, Police FC coach Todd Ryan remains wary of the defending champions. ‘Police and Army, that’s probably the biggest rivalry in top-tier football,’ Ryan remarked. ‘We don’t care what start they got…they’re still unbeaten from last season. We need to ensure they stay at the bottom of us.’ Ryan emphasized the importance of this match, calling it a ‘local derby’ and a crucial step toward achieving their ultimate goal: qualifying for Concacaf football. Meanwhile, Defence Force’s interim coach Devorn Jorsling remains optimistic, dismissing their early struggles as a temporary setback. ‘When the smoke clears, we will be champions of the league,’ Jorsling asserted. The clash is part of a packed matchday, with Caledonia AIA vs. Terminix La Horquetta Rangers and AC Port of Spain vs. FC Eagles also set to take place on November 9.