Carib Scope

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  • Ansa McAl, Alstons Shipping defeat German company’s claim for $58m

    Ansa McAl, Alstons Shipping defeat German company’s claim for $58m

    In a significant legal ruling, the Trinidad and Tobago High Court has delivered a decisive victory to ANSA McAl Ltd and Alstons Shipping Ltd by dismissing a $58 million lawsuit filed by German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd Aktiengesellschaft. Justice Margaret Mohammed granted summary judgment in favor of the local companies, determining that the claimant had no realistic prospect of successfully proving its allegations.

    The dispute originated from 2021 shipping incidents involving allegedly hazardous fuel oil that leaked from containers, causing contamination at port facilities in Spain and Jamaica. Hapag-Lloyd sought substantial damages claiming breach of contract, negligence, misrepresentation, and failure to meet common law duties in transporting the goods.

    Justice Mohammed’s ruling systematically dismantled the German company’s case, noting the complete absence of evidence demonstrating that ANSA McAl or Alstons Shipping obtained any unjust benefit or gain. The court found that Hapag-Lloyd failed to establish the fundamental elements required for claims of unjust enrichment or restitution.

    Crucially, the judgment clarified that Alstons Shipping acted as booking agents for Hapag-Lloyd under an established agency agreement, with responsibilities limited to marketing, sales, and cargo reservations rather than physical shipment handling. The court accepted the defendants’ argument that they reasonably relied on descriptions provided by the goods’ source company, Avani Environmental Group, which had classified the fuel oil as non-hazardous.

    The ruling emphasized that the defendants were not involved in loading, inspection, or verification of goods before shipment, nor did they guarantee accuracy of weight and volume information supplied by third parties. Justice Mohammed determined that the contract of carriage existed between Hapag-Lloyd, West Indian Logistics, and another company called Mundra Oil, not the ANSA McAl subsidiaries.

    In addition to dismissing the substantial claim, the court ordered Hapag-Lloyd to pay legal costs totaling $524,655.25, with 55% ($288,560.39) immediately payable since the matter had progressed beyond initial case management conferences. The legal teams representing both sides included prominent attorneys Shiv Sharma, Asif Hosein-Shah, and Nyree Alfonso for the defendants, while Marguerite Woodstock-Riley, KC, and Curtis Cave represented the claimant.

  • Tertiary education minister: Skilled workers still in demand

    Tertiary education minister: Skilled workers still in demand

    In a significant stride toward digital inclusion, Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Tertiary Education and Skills Training has unveiled a refurbished Mobile Computer Training Unit—dubbed the ICT Bus—to deliver technology education directly to underserved communities. The initiative, launched December 5 at Marabella North Secondary School, represents a national commitment to equitable skills development in an increasingly digital economy.

    Minister Prof Prakash Persad, the keynote speaker, highlighted a crucial paradox in global technological advancement: while artificial intelligence dominates headlines and investments, the actual surge in demand is for skilled tradespeople who build and maintain digital infrastructure. “Without the technicians who put up the buildings and maintain the computers, there could be no AI,” Persad stated. “New skills must not replace the old ones; they must coexist.”

    He emphasized that despite massive global investments in data centers—exceeding US$50 billion in the United States alone—the pressing need remains for plumbers, electricians, and carpenters. Persad urged citizens to value all forms of honest work, reminding youth that every profession contributing to digital infrastructure is “honorable and essential.”

    The ICT Bus, operated by the Youth Training and Employment Partnership Programme (YTEPP), symbolizes mobility, inclusion, and national readiness. Equipped with computers, internet access, and learning software, it will offer digital literacy, mobile app development, web design, AI workflow training, CAD, and graphic design to diverse beneficiaries including youth, adults seeking retraining, and community organizations.

    YTEPP Chairman Dr. Maurice Jones described the vehicle as “more than the unveiling of a vehicle; it is hope, opportunity, and proof that no citizen should be left behind.” He committed that the bus would actively travel to communities where digital training needs are most urgent.

    Claxton Bay MP Hansen Narinesingh, who recently attended a Commonwealth parliamentary conference on responsible AI in Malaysia, emphasized the economic imperative of workforce recalibration. “The recalibration of our national workforce is not optional; it is an economic imperative,” he stated, urging students to maximize the program’s benefits.

    The launch event featured guided tours of the mobile unit where students will develop skills prioritized by modern labor markets: adaptability, analytical acuity, and digital fluency. Across all addresses, a unified message emerged: as Trinidad and Tobago advances toward a knowledge-driven future, no community or learner should be excluded from the digital transformation.

  • Herbert Morrison crush Muschett 108 – 2 in ISSA basketball

    Herbert Morrison crush Muschett 108 – 2 in ISSA basketball

    In a spectacular display of dominance, Herbert Morrison Technical achieved an extraordinary 108-2 victory against Muschett High in Thursday’s Under-16 ISSA Rural Area Zone A basketball matchup. The game, held at Herbert Morrison’s home court, marks their second consecutive decisive win following last week’s 94-30 triumph over York Castle High.

    The match transformed into a showcase of offensive brilliance as four Herbert Morrison players scored in double digits. Shemar Russell and Michael Johnson jointly led the scoring charge with 22 points each. Russell delivered a remarkable triple-double performance, additionally securing 12 rebounds and 14 steals. Significant contributions came from Antonio Kerr with 14 points and 6 rebounds, and Tyler Linton with 10 points and 11 steals.

    Herbert Morrison established overwhelming control from the opening quarter, concluding the first period with a 22-0 advantage. By halftime, the lead had expanded to 45-2, followed by a second-half shutout that produced 63 unanswered points.

    Meanwhile, the institution’s Under-19 contest against Ocho Rios High encountered premature termination due to inclement weather. Herbert Morrison maintained a commanding 37-5 lead with approximately five minutes remaining in the first half. Joshua Ferguson had impressed with 15 points, exclusively from three-point shots.

    In related tournament action, Munro College secured dual victories against Christiana High in Zone B competitions. Their Under-16 squad orchestrated a 33-17 comeback win, propelled by Sheldon Forrester’s 19-point performance. The Under-19 encounter witnessed Munro overcoming two separate deficits to claim a 33-26 victory, with Keneil Moodie leading scorers at 17 points.

    Zone A witnessed York Castle High achieving redemption with a 66-49 Under-19 victory against Ocho Rios High. Christian Andorn’s exceptional 36-point performance, complemented by Chadrick McFarlane’s 23 points, powered a determined comeback after trailing early in the contest.

  • IDB approves US$80-m in funding to prevent flooding in key areas of the Bahamas

    IDB approves US$80-m in funding to prevent flooding in key areas of the Bahamas

    The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has sanctioned a substantial financial package of US$80 million to The Bahamas, specifically targeting the enhancement of transport infrastructure resilience on the island of New Providence. This strategic initiative is designed to combat the severe socioeconomic disruptions caused by persistent and recurrent flooding events that have long plagued the region.

    The funding will be channeled into a comprehensive Global Multiple Works (GOM) programme. The core objectives of this programme are twofold: to significantly upgrade the island’s drainage systems and to optimize the overall efficiency and effectiveness of road maintenance operations. By focusing on key transport corridors, the project aims to fortify them against extreme weather, ensuring continuity of mobility and access.

    This operation is a direct component of two broader, strategic regional frameworks championed by the IDB Group. It aligns with the ‘One Caribbean’ approach, which is dedicated to fostering sustainable development across Caribbean nations and Small Island Developing States. Furthermore, it falls under the umbrella of ‘Ready and Resilient Americas,’ a regional impact programme engineered to bolster disaster resilience throughout Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

    The direct beneficiaries of this infrastructural overhaul include the entire population of New Providence, numbering over 296,000 residents, who will experience improved mobility, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The millions of tourists who visit the island annually will also reap the benefits of more reliable transportation networks. Indirectly, all 398,000 inhabitants of The Bahamas are expected to gain from a strengthened economy driven by enhanced productivity and more optimized public expenditure on road upkeep.

    The IDB highlighted the critical need for this intervention, noting that flooding in New Providence routinely leads to major socioeconomic paralysis. Inundated roadways, overwhelmed drainage systems, and accumulated stormwater frequently render roads impassable. This not only severely constrains mobility but also disrupts access to essential services, halts economic activity, and accelerates the deterioration of road assets.

    Through this programme, sustainable and resilient flood-mitigation and stormwater-management infrastructure will be designed and implemented across selected transport corridors. This encompasses primary urban road networks, main thoroughfares, and residential community roads. Beyond physical infrastructure, the project will also support the Bahamian Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs in updating its asset-management system, revising quality standards for road construction and maintenance, and promoting universal accessibility standards for streets.

    The financial terms of the loan include a generous repayment period of 25 years, a grace period of 5.5 years, and an interest rate pegged to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR).

  • Romeich criticises corporate companies for ‘not holding strong’ and cancelling Christmas events

    Romeich criticises corporate companies for ‘not holding strong’ and cancelling Christmas events

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Prominent entertainment figure Romeich Major has launched a stern critique against corporate entities for their widespread cancellation of Christmas celebrations following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. In a recent YouTube interview with the Jamaica Observer, the event promoter and artist manager accused major corporations of using the natural disaster as a pretext to abandon staff festivities that he argues are crucial for mental recovery and economic stability.

    Major specifically targeted billion-dollar corporations, distinguishing them from smaller businesses that might genuinely lack resources for event hosting. He argued that these large companies have both the financial capacity and social responsibility to maintain traditions that provide psychological relief to employees traumatized by recent events. “When corporate entities cancel these events, they’re essentially turning off the lights across Jamaica’s entertainment sector,” Major stated during the emotional interview.

    The promoter emphasized the therapeutic value of holiday gatherings for workers experiencing hurricane-related trauma, noting that many Jamaicans are suffering from profound mental health challenges after witnessing casualties and experiencing personal losses. He maintained that corporate Christmas events serve as critical opportunities for emotional release and community bonding during national recovery efforts.

    Major pledged to continue advocating for the entertainment industry’s sustainability during Jamaica’s reconstruction phase, positioning cultural events as essential components of national resilience rather than discretionary luxuries.

  • TTCSI warns gaming tax hike threatens bars sector

    TTCSI warns gaming tax hike threatens bars sector

    Trinidad and Tobago’s service sector is raising urgent alarms over the government’s proposed 400% amusement gaming tax increase, warning it could trigger widespread business closures and unemployment. Dianne Joseph, president of the Trinidad and Tobago Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI), emphasized that the drastic jump from $6,000 to $25,000 annually per gaming machine would disproportionately impact small and medium-sized bars that depend on this revenue stream.

    Joseph stressed that while the TTCSI acknowledges the government’s revenue generation and regulatory objectives, the current proposal threatens economic stability. She advocated for a collaborative approach that balances fiscal needs with industry sustainability, noting that genuine consultation with stakeholders is essential for developing viable alternatives.

    The coalition joins two major industry associations—TT Coalition of Bars and Restaurants (TTCOBAR) and Barkeepers Owners/Operators Association of TT (BOATT)—in characterizing the tax measure as potentially more devastating than the pandemic for community-based establishments. These organizations have urged bar owners to lobby their parliamentary representatives, particularly government MPs, before the proposal reaches debate.

    In response to growing concerns, Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh maintained that government ministries remain open to dialogue with all stakeholders. However, he acknowledged not having reviewed specific industry figures or statements regarding the proposed tax increase.

    The industry consensus warns that without compromise, the tax hike could eliminate thousands of jobs and create significant social distress, particularly affecting households with children across the nation.

  • Civil society group urges resistance to US aggression against Venezuela

    Civil society group urges resistance to US aggression against Venezuela

    The Assembly of Caribbean People (ACP) has issued a forceful condemnation of what it characterizes as Washington’s expanding military footprint across the Caribbean basin. In a December 4 declaration, the regional coalition of civil society organizations denounced recent US deployments as evidence of an “imperial agenda” targeting Venezuela and destabilizing regional stability.

    The ACP highlighted concerning military developments, including the positioning of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group—comprising destroyers, amphibious assault vessels, fighter aircraft, B-52 strategic bombers, and nuclear submarines—representing approximately ten percent of US naval capacity. The organization specifically noted heightened activity in the narrow maritime corridor separating Trinidad and Tobago from Venezuela, describing the Caribbean as facing its most volatile period in recent history.

    Further escalation indicators cited include multiple visits by the US Marines’ 22nd Expeditionary Unit to Trinidad within a three-week period, repeated destroyer incursions into the Gulf of Paria, and the installation of US radar systems in Tobago. The ACP dismissed official narratives linking these deployments to counter-narcotics operations, asserting instead that Washington seeks regime change in Venezuela and control over its substantial natural resources.

    The coalition expressed particular alarm over recent aviation restrictions, including Federal Aviation Administration warnings about military operations in Caribbean airspace and President Trump’s declaration of a Venezuelan no-fly zone. These developments, coupled with the designation of Venezuela’s leadership as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, are viewed as creating pretexts for military intervention.

    ACP spokesman David Abdulah called for unified regional resistance, urging Caribbean citizens, governments, and civil society organizations to reject US military activities. “The message must be clear,” Abdulah emphasized, “A US military attack—Not in our name. War in the region—Not in our name.”

    The organization criticized regional governments that have aligned with US interests, specifically referencing Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s public support for aggressive counter-narcotics measures. Such positions, the ACP argued, undermine the Caribbean’s traditional status as a zone of peace.

    While acknowledging resistance from certain CARICOM leaders and grassroots movements, the ACP called for stronger collective opposition to preserve regional sovereignty and prevent military conflict.

  • Rowley to host radar conversation in Tobago

    Rowley to host radar conversation in Tobago

    Former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has announced a public forum to address growing concerns regarding the recent installation of a US military radar system at Tobago’s Arthur NR Robinson International Airport. The meeting is scheduled for December 7 at the Mason Hall Community Centre, commencing at 6:30 PM.

    In a December 5 Facebook post, Rowley stated, “Tobago, the conversation continues. In a time of uncertainty, our island deserves clarity.” The former leader pledged to confront difficult questions surrounding the radar system, the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed with the United States in December 2024 during his administration, and the genuine implications of these developments for Tobago’s security and future.

    The radar installation first came to public attention when current Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar disclosed its existence on November 27 following a laptop distribution ceremony in Penal. Persad-Bissessar characterized the equipment as essential for enhancing surveillance capabilities against narcotics traffickers operating in regional waters.

    This development occurs within the broader context of increased US military presence throughout the southern Caribbean. Beginning in August, the United States deployed three guided missile destroyers—USS Gravely, Jason Dunham, and Sampson—to the region. The naval contingent has since expanded to include the nuclear attack submarine USS Newport News, amphibious assault vessels, special forces command vessels, the 22nd US Marine Expeditionary Unit, and the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford with its strike group.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar has repeatedly emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago will not serve as a base for military operations against Venezuela, despite having expressed willingness to permit US troop operations if Venezuela encroaches on Guyanese territory. The Prime Minister has publicly endorsed the US military deployment as an anti-narcotics initiative, notwithstanding international criticism of US strikes on alleged drug vessels as extrajudicial killings.

    The situation has revealed political tensions, with Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine claiming exclusion from security discussions despite arguably warranting membership on the National Security Council. Constitutional questions have emerged regarding Augustine’s eligibility for such membership, as former national security minister Gary Griffith contends that only cabinet ministers may participate.

    Meanwhile, Tobago East MP David Thomas has aligned with the government’s position that the radar primarily addresses narcotics trafficking concerns. This alignment occurs despite the absence of a formal coalition between Thomas’s Tobago People’s Party and the governing UNC, highlighting the complex political dynamics surrounding this security development.

  • PM reaffirms transparency on refinery restart

    PM reaffirms transparency on refinery restart

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reinforced her administration’s dedication to transparent governance regarding the proposed reactivation of the former Petrotrin oil refinery in Pointe-a-Pierre. The commitment was formally articulated during a high-level meeting with the Refinery Reactivation Committee at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s, where officials examined recent developments concerning the facility’s potential restart.

    The government’s official communication emphasized Persad-Bissessar’s unwavering focus on “transparency, national benefit, and ensuring that Trinidad and Tobago advances with a refinery plan that truly serves our people.” The administration pledged to provide regular public updates as deliberations continue to evolve.

    Chaired by former energy minister Kevin Ramnarine, the specialized committee is evaluating the feasibility of resuming operations at the industrial complex, which ceased operations in November 2018 during Petrotrin’s restructuring into Trinidad Petroleum Holdings Ltd (TPHL). The refinery’s revival constituted a central campaign promise of the United National Congress (UNC) party during the April 28 general election.

    Current Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal provided technical insights, indicating that partial production could potentially resume within 12-18 months, with full operational capacity achievable within approximately 36 months. However, he clarified that this timeline remains contingent upon capital expenditure requirements and financial arrangements, which the committee’s comprehensive report is expected to address in detail.

    Photographic evidence from the meeting revealed officials examining an interim assessment document, which Moonilal characterized as providing “an important map as to how we move forward” based on established terms of reference. The final feasibility report was anticipated for delivery in early December, representing a critical milestone in determining the project’s viability and implementation framework.

  • Patricia Smith seeks partners to assist Melissa victims sheltered at Godfrey Stewart High amid uncertain future

    Patricia Smith seeks partners to assist Melissa victims sheltered at Godfrey Stewart High amid uncertain future

    In Westmoreland’s Savanna-la-Mar, a critical humanitarian situation persists as approximately 50 survivors of recent hurricane devastation remain inadequately housed at the severely damaged Godfrey Stewart High School. Among the vulnerable occupants are multiple children, including an infant who required hospitalization after falling ill from exposure to winds penetrating broken windows.

    The living conditions present alarming challenges, with displaced individuals sleeping on classroom desks minimally cushioned by sponge fragments. Particularly concerning is the situation of a visually impaired man occupying a perilously elevated desk without proper care or hygiene assistance.

    Despite previous assessments by Ministry of Social Security officials who examined destroyed homes and promised substantial housing solutions by November, no subsequent updates or assistance have materialized. The victims now face additional uncertainty as the school must eventually resume educational functions, potentially leaving them without shelter.

    Address this gap, businesswoman and philanthropist Dr. Patricia Smith has spearheaded relief efforts through her foundation. In collaboration with the Secret Heart Spiritual Church led by Apostle Ray Foster, she has established temporary housing solutions including a converted 40-foot shipping container and multiple four-sided tents on her property. Dr. Smith has personally invested approximately US$10,000 (J$1.6 million) in installing essential sanitation facilities and water tanks, with equivalent additional funding required to expand support.

    This initiative constitutes the second phase of her foundation’s comprehensive strategy to stabilize victims until governmental institutions implement permanent solutions. Dr. Smith’s commitment stems from personal experience—having endured homelessness herself at age ten. She has directed proceeds from her autobiographical work ‘I Persist’ toward the relief effort and actively seeks corporate and individual partnerships to bolster foundation resources.