Carib Scope

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  • No cause as yet for fire, says Labour Minister

    No cause as yet for fire, says Labour Minister

    Authorities in Trinidad and Tobago are maintaining their investigative efforts regarding the destructive fire and subsequent explosion that completely devastated the Mitsuda Superstore located in Enterprise. Labour Minister Leroy Baptiste has provided an official update, confirming that while investigations are actively progressing, it remains premature to assign a definitive cause to the incident.

    In a recent communication with the Express, Minister Baptiste detailed the collaborative approach being undertaken by two key agencies: the Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA) and the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service. He clarified that while the Fire Service currently holds the primary jurisdictional authority over the investigation, both entities are working in a coordinated manner to ascertain the facts.

    The Minister relayed a statement from the executive director of the OSH Agency, which confirmed that safety inspectors are presently on-site conducting thorough enquiries as an integral component of the standard investigative procedure. This process is designed to methodically gather evidence and information.

    Concurrently, the OSH Agency has seized the opportunity to reiterate to all employers their statutory obligations under the OSH Act. This mandate includes the critical necessity of maintaining operational fire extinguishers, possessing valid fire certification, and ensuring the completely secure storage of any hazardous materials or chemicals on business premises.

    Minister Baptiste further elaborated on the Agency’s broader mission, noting, “OSHA confirms that inspections of warehouses and other facilities are conducted to foster safety. These inspections are executed both proactively and reactively to identify potential risk factors. Our inspectors routinely require industrial establishments to present a valid fire certificate during any investigation process.”

    Emphasizing the preliminary stage of the investigation, Baptiste stated that the outcome of these detailed enquiries is expected to yield necessary clarity and information in the coming days.

    The tragic event unfolded shortly after midday last Thursday on Longdenville Old Road. The initial fire was followed by a significant explosion, which led to the total destruction of the superstore. The repercussions were severe, resulting in the displacement of dozens of employees and causing damage to several nearby residences, which necessitated the evacuation of multiple residents.

    In the aftermath, Mitsuda has announced that its branch in St. Augustine remains operational and continues to serve its customer base.

  • ‘Each of you can become victors’

    ‘Each of you can become victors’

    In a powerful address to graduating students of Morvant Laventille Secondary School, Justice Frank Seepersad delivered a compelling message about personal agency and character development. Speaking at the school’s graduation ceremony held in Morvant on Thursday, the judge emphasized that geographical origins should never limit one’s potential, declaring that individual choices rather than environmental circumstances ultimately determine life trajectories.

    Justice Seepersad articulated that sustained success emerges from daily practices of honesty, punctuality, and respect—qualities that form the bedrock of personal integrity. While acknowledging the value of ambitious dreaming, he cautioned that aspirations must be coupled with disciplined effort and conscientious work ethic to yield tangible results.

    The judicial figure highlighted the transformative power of personal example, noting that graduates now serve as role models within their communities. He referenced Laventille’s remarkable cultural legacy, including the invention of the steelpan from discarded oil drums by pioneers like Winston “Spree” Simon, as evidence of extraordinary innovation emerging from challenging circumstances.

    Celebrating the academic perseverance demonstrated by graduates who balanced domestic responsibilities and navigated difficult environments, Justice Seepersad nevertheless clarified that graduation signifies a commencement rather than conclusion. He warned that forthcoming decisions regarding education, employment, and social associations would carry profound lifelong implications.

    The address concluded with an empowering charge: graduates were encouraged to perceive themselves not as products of their environment but as architects of their destiny, capable of transforming personal circumstances into meaningful achievements just as earlier generations transformed scrap metal into internationally celebrated musical instruments.

  • TATT sounds warning after ‘jamette’ remark

    TATT sounds warning after ‘jamette’ remark

    Trinidad and Tobago’s telecommunications regulator has launched a formal review of recent television broadcasts containing derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, signaling potential enforcement actions against violators. The Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) issued dual communications—a public statement and a direct letter to Guardian Media Ltd—emphasizing broadcasters’ legal obligations to maintain decency standards.

    The controversy emerged from a political exchange in Parliament where Persad-Bissessar alleged criminal financing behind opposition headquarters, prompting former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley to respond with what many consider gender-based slurs during a CNC3 news broadcast on March 17. The term ‘jamette,’ historically denoting women of low social standing, has sparked widespread condemnation from government officials and civil society groups.

    TATT specifically referenced Clause D9(a) of broadcast concessions, which prohibits content that ‘degrades or portrays in negative manner any person or group by reason of race, origin, class, religion or sex.’ The authority highlighted concerns about children potentially witnessing the derogatory remarks during broadcast hours, amplifying the negative impact on perceptions of the Prime Minister’s office.

    Guardian Media Ltd’s CNC3 station received formal caution regarding its oversight responsibilities as a national broadcaster. TATT emphasized the necessity for ‘greater monitoring and due diligence’ to prevent offensive language violating concession agreements. The regulator confirmed ongoing examination of the contentious broadcast segments obtained through its Broadcast Content Monitoring system.

    This incident has ignited broader discussions about media ethics and political discourse standards in Trinidad and Tobago. TATT maintains that upholding broadcasting standards is essential for fostering a ‘fair and respectful’ media environment reflective of national values.

  • From Cuba, to T&T then Venezuela

    From Cuba, to T&T then Venezuela

    A Hong Kong-flagged fuel tanker at the center of Caribbean energy tensions has undertaken another unexpected diversion, now heading toward Venezuela after initially changing course from Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago. Maritime tracking data from MarineTraffic indicates the Sea Horse oil/chemical tanker is scheduled to arrive at Puerto Cabello on March 23rd at 4:30 p.m., marking the latest development in a complex geopolitical energy saga.

    The vessel’s redirection comes amid a severe energy crisis in Cuba that culminated in a nationwide blackout lasting over 29 hours beginning March 16th. Although Cuban authorities managed to restore power grid connectivity and reactivate the country’s largest thermal electricity plant by Tuesday, officials warned that continued U.S. restrictions on fuel supplies could trigger further outages.

    According to maritime intelligence reports, the Sea Horse loaded its diesel cargo earlier this year through a ship-to-ship transfer in the Mediterranean before sailing toward the Caribbean. The Russian-origin fuel had been idling in the Atlantic Ocean since late February, creating a floating storage scenario that reflects the complexities of global energy logistics under sanctions regimes.

    The U.S. Treasury Department recently revised previously issued waivers covering sales of Russian-origin petroleum products, specifically excluding transactions involving North Korea, Cuba, and Crimea. This policy adjustment occurs as the Trump administration attempts to balance containing rising crude and gasoline prices amid Middle East conflicts while maintaining pressure on Cuba’s Communist government by restricting oil supplies to private entities only.

    Meanwhile, Russia’s state-run TASS news agency reported that Moscow is engaged in discussions with Havana regarding potential aid options, though specific details remain undisclosed. Cuba’s energy infrastructure remains critically dependent on imported fuel oil and diesel for electricity generation, with the country having received only two tankers carrying imported oil cargoes so far this year according to LSEG data.

    The situation has created a severe gasoline shortage in Cuba, with sales strictly rationed and black market prices reaching approximately $8 per liter—six times the official government rate. Attempts to reach Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal and Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John for commentary on the tanker’s diversion were unsuccessful.

  • Cuba kampt met water- en energiecrisis; Rusland start olietransport

    Cuba kampt met water- en energiecrisis; Rusland start olietransport

    Havana residents are enduring extreme water shortages as severe fuel deficits and electrical grid instability cripple the Cuban capital’s water distribution networks. Citizens wait in extensive lines to collect water from tanker trucks, with thousands of households left without running water due to paralyzed pumping systems.

    The state water company Aguas de La Habana confirms that power outages, directly linked to fuel shortages, have disrupted pumping schedules. “Without oil imports, electricity generation halts and the pumping systems fail,” explained resident Lazaro Noblet. This crisis is not new—many Cubans have faced persistent water shortages since 2021. Individuals like Maria de Jesus Rusindo must carry heavy water containers to meet basic family needs.

    This energy and water emergency follows intensified U.S. economic pressure. After the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro—Cuba’s key ally and oil supplier—in January, Washington drastically reduced oil shipments to Cuba and threatened sanctions against other nations supplying fuel to the island. This ‘maximum pressure’ campaign has triggered severe power failures, including a recent nationwide blackout.

    In response, Mexico has initiated a humanitarian aid operation, dispatching boats loaded with food, medicine, and essential supplies from its southeastern ports to Cuba. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized national sovereignty and Cubans’ right to self-determination without foreign interference.

    Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed gratitude for international support, calling it ‘warm solidarity.’ However, the government firmly denies any willingness to make political concessions, including Díaz-Canel’s resignation, despite speculation that the U.S. seeks such outcomes.

    A significant recent development is Russia’s commencement of oil shipments to Cuba to alleviate acute fuel shortages. As a Cuban ally, Russia may provide temporary relief, yet energy warnings and critical water shortages persist.

    Cuba’s aging energy infrastructure remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Long-term challenges are exacerbated by the longstanding U.S. embargo, dating to the Cold War, and internal economic mismanagement.

    Díaz-Canel accuses the U.S. of waging ‘economic warfare’ aimed at forcing a violent regime change and warns that foreign intervention will be met with fierce resistance.

  • The country consolidates its position as a strategic partner of the U.S. at the Miami Security Forum

    The country consolidates its position as a strategic partner of the U.S. at the Miami Security Forum

    At the inaugural Miami Security Forum hosted by the Heritage Foundation, Dominican Interior and Police Minister Faride Raful delivered a comprehensive address on her nation’s remarkable security achievements and regional cooperation efforts. Representing President Luis Abinader at the Trump National Doral venue, Raful presented compelling data showing the Dominican Republic’s homicide rate plummeted to a historic low of 8.15 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2025—marking a substantial 15% reduction from 2024 figures.

    This dramatic improvement positions the Caribbean nation as the second safest country throughout Central America and the Caribbean region. Minister Raful attributed this success to three key strategic initiatives: evidence-based management through the Citizen Security Data Analysis Center, the significant expansion of police forces with 9,503 new officers, and comprehensive institutional reforms currently under legislative consideration in the Senate.

    The minister further highlighted extraordinary progress in combating drug trafficking, revealing that narcotics seizures have increased fivefold since 2019, reaching an impressive 48.3 metric tons in 2025. On economic matters, Raful emphasized the robust trade relationship with the United States, which surpassed $18.9 billion, complemented by substantial diaspora remittances exceeding $11.8 billion.

    Beyond bilateral relations, the forum facilitated crucial regional discussions. Minister Raful engaged in substantive dialogue with Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González Colón regarding Caribbean security modernization and coordinated crime prevention strategies. The minister also addressed the ongoing Haitian crisis, characterizing it as a hemispheric challenge demanding collective international response rather than isolated national solutions.

  • Boek over oorsprong schaafijs gepresenteerd in Tori Oso

    Boek over oorsprong schaafijs gepresenteerd in Tori Oso

    PARAMARIBO – In a culturally significant event at the well-attended Tori Oso venue, illustrator Hedy Tjin and writer Zindzi Zevenbergen officially launched their award-winning children’s book “Manie Schaafijs” in Suriname on Wednesday evening. The work creatively documents the little-known story of how Tjin’s great-grandfather, Francisco de Freitas, introduced shaved ice desserts to Surinamese culture generations ago.

    The publication event, organized in collaboration with Schrijversgroep ’77, featured insightful discussions about the production process and live readings from the book. Distinguished attendees included John Dos Ramos, president of MadeiSu (Association of Madeiran Descendants in Suriname), historian Mildred Caprino, and Winston Tjin—grandson of the historical figure Manie Schaafijs and father of illustrator Hedy Tjin.

    Tjin expressed emotional significance in finally presenting the book in her family’s homeland. “When publishing a book, you never know how it will resonate. We released this three years ago, yet educational demand continues to surprise us,” she noted during the thematic evening.

    Zevenbergen, returning to Suriname after two decades, shared how the creative process reignited her connection to the country. “This project made me reconsider why I stayed away so long. The recognition of cultural elements here creates a different reading experience than in the Netherlands.”

    The authors emphasized their primary goal of reaching young readers, with school visits already planned. Through Stichting Skrifi, a children’s book writing workshop will further promote cultural storytelling. The literary visit received support from Literatuur Vlaanderen.

    Historically, the book fills a gap in Surinamese narrative tradition by highlighting Madeiran immigration history beyond dominant slavery narratives. Its previous recognition includes the prestigious Thea Beckmanprijs for best historical youth literature in the Netherlands.

  • Principal highlights inclusive education progress at Grantley Adams Memorial School

    Principal highlights inclusive education progress at Grantley Adams Memorial School

    The Grantley Adams Memorial School in St Joseph is receiving acclaim for its transformative approach to inclusive education, with Principal Major Andrew Skeete highlighting the institution’s successful restructuring of its educational framework. During a recent visit by Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, Regent of Igboland, school officials detailed their pioneering educational model that has reshaped student development strategies at the 70-year-old institution.

    The school’s educational philosophy centers on creating adaptable learning environments that accommodate diverse learning abilities and needs. “We have established ourselves as an institution committed to inclusive education, with particular emphasis on special education requirements,” Skeete explained. The curriculum has been intentionally designed to permit students to advance according to their individual learning paces while maintaining academic rigor.

    Core academic requirements include English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Integrated Science, and computer-based subjects, regardless of certification pathways. This foundational approach enables students to pursue various qualification routes including CSEC, CCSLC, or City and Guilds certifications based on their individual strengths and capabilities.

    Academic results demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach, with alternative certification tracks consistently achieving pass rates between 60-80 percent. While CSEC outcomes remain an area targeted for improvement, the school’s overall academic performance shows steady enhancement across all programs.

    Beyond classroom instruction, the institution provides comprehensive student support through partnerships with external agencies. These collaborations offer wraparound services including counseling and national programs specifically designed for at-risk youth. “We recognize our students’ diverse needs and provide multifaceted support systems,” Skeete emphasized.

    The school has also witnessed remarkable growth in extracurricular engagement. For the first time in recent history, the institution has successfully fielded complete teams for football, basketball, cricket, and cross-country competitions. Athletic achievements include notable performances at the Barbados Secondary Schools’ Athletic Championships (BSSAC), where male students secured sixth position and female students achieved eighth place in their respective categories.

    Cultural education forms another critical component of the school’s holistic development approach. Ongoing initiatives focus on instilling awareness of African heritage and building cultural pride among students. “We strive to educate our students about their royal heritage and cultural identity,” Skeete noted, referencing recent discussions with visiting dignitaries.

    Practical skill development receives significant emphasis through innovative programs like the cafeteria work initiative. Students participate in formal application processes submitting CVs and required documentation, followed by scheduled work assignments with actual compensation. This program provides valuable real-world experience and professional skill development.

    While celebrating these achievements, school leadership acknowledges ongoing opportunities for improvement. “We believe we can further enhance our outcomes,” Skeete stated, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to continuous advancement.

    The school will highlight its cultural programming with an African Day fair celebration on March 31, positioning Grantley Adams as one of the few educational institutions hosting such an event.

  • Vrachtkosten stijgen: extra toeslagen raken Surinaamse exportsectoren

    Vrachtkosten stijgen: extra toeslagen raken Surinaamse exportsectoren

    Rising geopolitical instability in the Middle East has catalyzed a chain reaction across global logistics networks, with maritime and air freight carriers implementing emergency surcharges that threaten export-dependent economies. Suriname’s seafood industry now faces the materialization of its worst-case scenario as transportation costs escalate dramatically.

    International logistics corporations are rapidly deploying new financial mechanisms to offset operational risks. Air France KLM Martinair Cargo has announced a War Risk Other Charge, scheduled for further increases by late March. This surcharge directly responds to diverted flight paths, soaring fuel prices, and heightened operational expenditures.

    Simultaneously, cargo carrier Amerijet instituted a Fuel Escalation Fee effective March 23rd, adding $0.04 per kilogram for standard shipments and $0.02 for perishables. This levy supplements existing fuel charges and applies specifically to shipments originating from the Caribbean and South America.

    The maritime sector mirrors these developments, with shipping companies passing along additional costs driven by volatile fuel markets and intensified international uncertainty.

    Udo Karg, President of the Suriname Seafood Association, confirms the industry’s fears have become reality. ‘What the fisheries sector feared has already begun this week. First the shipping companies, and now aviation,’ Karg told Starnieuws. He emphasized the disproportionate impact on smaller economies: ‘Major nations like Japan and EU states maintain reserves to buffer such developments, but countries like ours must improvise coping strategies.’

    While transport firms characterize these measures as temporary and contingent on global developments, Surinamese entrepreneurs anticipate severe consequences for their export competitiveness. The fisheries sector—a critical component of the nation’s economy—faces particular vulnerability to these logistics cost inflations that could reshape trade dynamics in the region.

  • Firefighters tackle late-night blaze at old Massy building in Pierhead

    Firefighters tackle late-night blaze at old Massy building in Pierhead

    A devastating fire engulfed the historic Massy building at Bridgetown’s Pierhead late Thursday, triggering a massive emergency response that continued through Friday morning. Firefighters successfully rescued two individuals from the burning structure while battling to prevent the aged limestone building’s complete collapse.

    The blaze, first reported at 11:41 PM, required a coordinated effort from multiple fire stations. Station Officer Roger Bourne confirmed that sixteen fire officers responded to the emergency, with crews from Bridgetown Port Station, Bridgetown Fire Station, and Worthing Fire Station supported by Tanker One. The fire was officially brought under control by 4:08 AM Friday, though crews remained on scene extinguishing persistent hotspots.

    Bourne emphasized the structural dangers posed by the intense heat on the soft stone construction. “We have cordoned off the area because it’s an old soft stone building and we want to protect the public from imminent collapse,” he stated, explaining the ongoing safety measures.

    The two individuals rescued from the building included one who left the scene independently and a 63-year-old man who required ambulance transport to hospital for treatment. No injuries were reported among emergency responders.

    The building, which previously housed the original Manning, Wilkinson and Challenor dry goods and hardware store before becoming a Massy Stores branch, held significant historical value in the area.

    In a related development, developers of the nearby Pierhead Project construction site confirmed their property sustained no damage from the adjacent blaze. In an official statement, they expressed relief that their site remained unaffected while extending wishes for the recovery of those hospitalized. The developers additionally praised emergency services for their rapid response to the dangerous situation.