The recent arrest of 19 workers at an illegal quarrying site in Manuel Congo, Guanapo, has sent shockwaves through Trinidad and Tobago’s aggregate industry. Nigel Tenia, President of the TT Aggregate Producers Alliance, expressed deep concern over the incident, warning that it could disrupt the production of essential materials for construction and road repairs. The quarry owner, Danny Guerra, was charged for operating without a license, a situation Tenia claims is widespread due to an inefficient licensing process under the Mineral Act, 2000. Tenia has urgently requested a meeting with Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal to address the issue, proposing a two- to three-year moratorium to decriminalize unlicensed operations. He emphasized the critical role of the aggregate industry in supporting construction and absorbing former Cepep and URP workers. Despite applications for processing licenses by 24 companies in March 2023, none have been issued, leaving the entire sector in legal limbo. Tenia and Ramdeo ‘Dan’ Persad, President of the Quarry Association, have called for immediate government action to reform the licensing process and ensure the industry can operate legally. The arrests have strained operators’ relationships with financiers and suppliers, while media portrayals have unfairly labeled quarry operators as criminals. Both leaders stressed the need for collaborative solutions to resolve the crisis and sustain the industry’s vital contributions to the nation’s economy.
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Reggae Girlz in Trinidad worried about families
As Hurricane Melissa battered Jamaica on October 28, the country’s senior women’s football team, the Reggae Girlz, faced an emotional struggle while preparing for an international friendly match against Trinidad and Tobago. Team manager Crystal Walters expressed deep concern for their families back home, describing the situation as ‘devastating.’ Despite the turmoil, Walters emphasized the team’s commitment to professionalism and their duty to represent their nation. The match, scheduled for 8 pm at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, went ahead as planned, with the players maintaining regular contact with their loved ones. Walters acknowledged the difficulty of focusing on the game but highlighted the team’s determination to secure a victory. The aftermath of the hurricane, which followed last year’s destruction caused by Hurricane Beryl, is expected to pose significant challenges for Jamaica. The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) extended its solidarity and support to Jamaica, offering assistance to the Reggae Girlz, whose return flight was canceled due to the storm. TTFA President Kieron Edwards called for regional unity, emphasizing the shared spirit of compassion among Caribbean nations during such crises.
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Young: UNC making Trinidad and Tobago energy uncompetitive
Former Energy Minister Stuart Young has issued a stark warning about the potential economic fallout from the Trinidad and Tobago (TT) government’s current energy sector strategies. Speaking to the media outside the Red House in Port of Spain, Young criticized the government’s approach, which he claims involves “trying to extort” companies through unilateral rate increases. He argued that such measures could render TT uncompetitive in the global energy market, jeopardizing both revenue and jobs.
Young emphasized that TT is not the only country with natural gas reserves or the ability to attract global investment. He warned that other nations with larger reserves and more favorable terms could easily lure companies away from TT. The recent budget’s electricity rate hikes, coupled with increased estate-related costs, have already begun to deter investors, he said.
The former minister highlighted the broader economic implications, noting that reduced competitiveness could lead to significant revenue losses for the government, which relies heavily on taxation from energy exports. This, in turn, could strain public services, delay salaries, and cause shortages in hospitals. Additionally, job losses could ripple through the economy, affecting not only plant workers but also ancillary businesses, such as food suppliers.
Young pointed to the recent shutdown of Nutrien’s operations in Point Lisas as a case in point. The global petrochemical leader announced a phased shutdown on October 23, citing port access restrictions and unreliable natural gas supply. The closure has already impacted over 300 temporary workers and raised concerns about CO2 supply for the food and beverage industry.
In response, the National Gas Company of TT (NGC) collaborated with Proman to ensure an alternative CO2 supply. Proman successfully delivered the equivalent volume of CO2 at the same price as Nutrien, with necessary infrastructure completed by October 27. Proman’s Managing Director, Anand Ragbir, praised the swift efforts of his team, while Massy Gas Products Trinidad CEO Marlon Millet expressed gratitude for the collaborative solution.
Young’s warnings underscore the urgent need for TT to adopt more competitive policies to safeguard its energy sector and broader economy.
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SBAJ anticipates shake-up of SME sector post-Hurricane Melissa
As Hurricane Melissa, the first major storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, approaches Jamaica, the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) has voiced grave concerns about the potential devastation to the island’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SBAJ President Garnet Reid warned that the hurricane could deliver a ‘double whammy’ to businesses already struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic challenges. Speaking to the Jamaica Observer, Reid emphasized that many SMEs may face permanent closures if the storm hits as projected, potentially ruining the upcoming holiday season for countless businesses. The hurricane, expected to cause billions in losses, has already disrupted operations with widespread flight cancellations and business closures. Reid highlighted limited access to finance as a critical barrier to SME recovery and called for urgent government intervention, including the establishment of a special emergency fund through entities like the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ). He also expressed strong opposition to a proposed increase in electricity rates by the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), arguing that such a move would exacerbate the economic hardships faced by small businesses. Reid urged the government to reject any rate hikes and focus on restoration and recovery efforts instead. Additionally, he advocated for greater competition in the energy sector, suggesting that a monopoly stifles fair pricing and consumer choice. The small business sector, often described as the engine of Jamaica’s economy, plays a vital role in employment and tax revenue, making its recovery crucial for the nation’s overall economic stability.
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Melissa leaves trail of destruction in St James
Montego Bay, St James, faced the brunt of Hurricane Melissa as the Category 5 storm wreaked havoc across the city on Tuesday. Among the hardest-hit locations was the iconic Pier One restaurant and bar, a beloved waterfront establishment. The hurricane’s fierce winds and relentless rain battered the shoreline, destroying parts of the building, including its famous sign. This incident echoed a previous storm in February 2024, which had already caused millions in damages to the same venue. As of Tuesday evening, the full extent of the destruction remained unassessed, but officials anticipate significant losses. The Rubis gas station on Howard Cooke Boulevard also sustained severe damage, alongside widespread reports of property destruction throughout the city. Montego Bay experienced extensive flooding, with Harbour and South streets submerged under several feet of water, rendering them impassable. Fallen trees and utility lines further complicated navigation, even for heavy-duty vehicles deployed for damage assessment. Mayor Richard Vernon described the initial impact as ‘rough,’ promising a thorough evaluation once the storm subsided. Reports of roofs being blown off in Mount Salem and other areas added to the devastation. The hurricane’s impact was felt as early as 3:00 am, with a Barnett Street building’s roof torn off and debris damaging vehicles at the Montego Bay Fire Station. Rising river levels due to continuous rainfall exacerbated the situation. Despite the chaos, residents were seen walking through the storm, while unconfirmed reports of looting emerged. A strong police and military presence was maintained throughout the day to ensure order.
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Hezron’s Holding On climbing
Reggae artist Hezron Clarke has unveiled his latest single, ‘Holding On,’ a track dedicated to spreading positivity and inspiring resilience. Originally part of his 2022 album *M.O.A.M (Man On A Mission)*, the song was officially released as a standalone single on September 26. The track features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Leroy Romans on bass guitar, synthesizer, keyboards, and flute; Rohan Dwyer on programmed drums and guitar; and Limey Murray on backing vocals. Produced by Tad Dawkins Jr of Tad’s Records, the collaboration showcases a seamless musical chemistry, resulting in a high-quality production. Clarke explained that the song draws inspiration from life’s struggles, faith, and the determination to persevere through adversity. Since its release, ‘Holding On’ has resonated deeply with fans worldwide, earning widespread acclaim for its uplifting message. Clarke emphasized that music should not only entertain but also inspire, and this track serves as a reminder to hold onto purpose, dreams, and humanity during challenging times. The artist recently concluded a successful three-month tour across Canada, performing 15 shows at festivals and cultural events. The tour, which began in Victoria, British Columbia, and ended in Toronto, was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from audiences. Clarke described the experience as unforgettable, highlighting the deep appreciation Canadians have for authentic reggae music. Looking ahead, he plans to release the visuals for ‘Holding On’ and is already working on his next album, a high-energy roots reggae project that stays true to his signature style. Clarke also aims to expand his international performances and undertake special projects in Jamaica, continuing to champion the message of love and resilience through his music.
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More than 500,000 JPS customers lose power
Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, wreaked havoc across Jamaica on Tuesday, leaving more than 70% of Jamaica Public Service (JPS) customers—over 500,000 households—without electricity by 3:00 pm. The hurricane made landfall at noon with unprecedented wind speeds exceeding 180 miles per hour, causing significant damage to the island’s transmission and distribution networks. JPS President and CEO Hugh Grant confirmed that central and western parishes were particularly hard-hit, with sections of the electrical grid requiring a complete rebuild. Despite efforts to prevent a total shutdown, the extent of the damage has made recovery a daunting task. JPS has mobilized its line workers, along with local and international contractors, to begin restoration efforts as soon as conditions permit. In less affected areas, the company plans to seek a partial all-clear from authorities to initiate assessments and repairs concurrently. Grant emphasized the complexity of power outages, explaining that damage in one area can disrupt supply in others, and urged customers to remain patient. JPS also issued a safety warning, advising residents to avoid downed power lines and poles, which may still be energized. The Jamaica Observer reported an incident involving an energized wire on Rosseau Road in St. Andrew, which remained unattended for hours, sparking frustration among locals. As Jamaica begins its recovery, JPS remains committed to restoring power while prioritizing the safety of its teams and the public.
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$24-b payout
Jamaica is poised to receive a $150 million payout from its catastrophe bond, marking a historic activation of this financial safety net as the nation grapples with the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. Disaster modeller Chuck Watson of Enki Research estimates the storm’s damage between $5 billion and $16 billion, likening it to the catastrophic Hurricane Gilbert of 1988, which caused $7 billion in losses. Watson described Melissa as a worst-case scenario for the island, potentially doubling Gilbert’s impact.
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Edge of disaster
Despite the ferocity of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica’s south-western region on Tuesday, the parish of St Thomas largely escaped severe damage. However, for residents living near the Plantain Garden River in Bath, the storm brought chaos and fear as landslides tore through the riverbank, threatening homes and livelihoods. A viral video on social media captured the dramatic evacuation of residents as sections of the riverbank collapsed, sweeping away a parked car in the process.
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Disaster!
Hurricane Melissa, one of the most ferocious hurricanes ever recorded, unleashed its fury on Jamaica’s south-western coast on Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. With maximum wind speeds reaching 185 miles per hour (300 kilometres per hour), the storm obliterated homes, uprooted trees, and severed power lines across the island. Torrential rains triggered flash floods and landslides, compounding the devastation. Even as wind speeds subsided to 150 miles per hour, the hurricane continued to inundate communities, causing widespread damage that may take days to fully assess, particularly as communication networks remain largely incapacitated. In response to the catastrophe, Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness declared the island a disaster area under the Disaster Risk Management Act. The Government also enacted the Trade (Sale of Goods During Period of Declaration of Threatened Area) (Tropical Storm Melissa) Order, 2025, which took immediate effect. These measures, Holness emphasized, provide the Government with the necessary tools to manage its ongoing response to the crisis. Hurricane Melissa now stands as the most destructive hurricane to ever strike Jamaica, marking a grim milestone in the nation’s history.