Carib Scope

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  • Owners hit 400% rise in gaming tax, warn: Bars face closure

    Owners hit 400% rise in gaming tax, warn: Bars face closure

    Trinidad and Tobago’s hospitality sector is facing what industry leaders are calling a “second pandemic” as the government proposes a massive 400% tax increase on amusement gaming machines. The planned hike would raise the annual tax per machine from $6,000 to $25,000, potentially devastating the country’s bar and restaurant industry.

    The TT Coalition of Bars and Restaurants (TTCOBAR) and the Barkeepers Owners/Operators Association of TT (BOATT) have issued a joint warning that this drastic measure could force widespread permanent closures of small and medium-sized establishments. According to industry representatives, many bars rely on gaming revenue to offset operational costs, pay staff salaries, and remain financially viable amid rising expenses for beverages and other commodities.

    BOATT president Satesh Moonessar revealed that the associations had previously met with government officials to discuss potentially reducing gaming taxes and implementing quarterly payment options. “We were under the assumption these requests were being considered,” Moonessar stated, expressing surprise that the government was instead moving forward with a substantial tax increase.

    The economic impact calculations are staggering: a modest bar operating ten gaming machines would see its annual tax liability surge from $60,000 to $250,000—an increase that often exceeds the net profit of many small establishments. Industry representatives estimate approximately 60% of the country’s 2,500 bars depend on gaming machine revenue to remain operational.

    Beyond the direct impact on bars, the associations warn of broader economic consequences including job losses, reduced tax revenue from various sources (VAT, NIS, PAYE, liquor licenses), and potential growth in illegal gaming operations. They emphasize that their position is not about defending gaming machines but about preserving jobs, businesses, and community gathering spaces.

    Both associations are now urging bar owners to contact their Members of Parliament, particularly those in government, to advocate for reconsideration and proper consultation before the proposed changes receive final parliamentary approval.

  • Dowlath pledges support for Islamic-run schools

    Dowlath pledges support for Islamic-run schools

    In a significant address at the Islamic Development Bank’s Caribbean and Latin American Regional Partnership consultation, Trinidad and Tobago’s Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath committed to including Islamic educational institutions in the government’s comprehensive plan to transform the nation’s education landscape. The December 4th gathering at Trinidad Hilton, St. Ann’s brought together regional Islamic leaders to address critical educational challenges and opportunities.

    Minister Dowlath emphasized the vital role of partnerships with longstanding organizations like the Islamic Missionaries Guild, which has delivered educational services since the 1960s. “This approach isn’t about labeling our children—it’s about lifting them up,” Dowlath stated, outlining the ministry’s enhanced intervention strategies that identify learning challenges from preschool level and provide targeted, wrap-around support involving teachers, families, and specialists.

    The minister highlighted the government’s recent laptop distribution initiative, which received particular appreciation from consultation participants who noted technology access challenges in Islamic-run schools throughout the region. The three-day conference serves as a platform for Islamic organization leaders from across the Caribbean and South America to discuss both challenges facing the faith and opportunities for transformative change.

    Delegates were scheduled to visit local Islamic-operated schools on December 5th, with announcements expected regarding beneficiaries of a Schools and Scholarship Programme. Suleiman Bulbulia, regional director of the Organisation for Islam in Latin America and the Caribbean, noted the growing establishment of Muslim-run schools across the region for both religious and secular learning, describing the consultation as “timely and critical” for developing these institutions into centers of excellence and building capacity for future Muslim generations.

  • NGO backs PM’s ban on fetes, noise pollution crackdown

    NGO backs PM’s ban on fetes, noise pollution crackdown

    In a significant development regarding noise pollution management, the non-governmental organization Citizens Against Noise Pollution of TT (CANPTT) has declared full endorsement of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration’s recent policy to limit certain national venues for high-intensity leisure activities. The December 4 statement from CANPTT characterized the government’s intervention as both timely and necessary for safeguarding public welfare.

    The organization emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago’s communities have endured decades of excessive noise disruption that adversely affects sleep patterns, academic performance, work productivity, and overall quality of life. This statement emerged shortly after the TT Promoters Association (TTPA) conducted a press conference in Port of Spain, urging authorities to reverse what they termed a ‘discriminatory’ prohibition on utilizing state-owned facilities including the Brian Lara Cricket Academy for festive events.

    While acknowledging concerns regarding operational and economic challenges faced by event organizers, CANPTT maintained that commercial interests cannot supersede citizens’ fundamental rights to residential tranquility. The organization referenced consultations with acoustic engineers who confirmed that noise levels at major events can be effectively managed through technical adjustments and real-time monitoring systems.

    CANPTT cited international precedents from Switzerland, Norway, and the United Kingdom where large-scale cultural festivals successfully implement stringent noise regulations without diminishing artistic quality or audience enjoyment. The organization, under president Joey Maharaj’s leadership, contends that Trinidad’s Carnival and other cultural celebrations could be enhanced through scientifically-grounded noise management practices aligned with World Health Organization guidelines.

    The NGO criticized promoters for focusing on financial impacts while neglecting to propose practical solutions such as sound-level modifications, curfew implementations, or adherence to international noise standards. CANPTT urged maintained restrictions until enforceable national noise-control standards are established, while expressing readiness to collaborate with both government and event promoters to develop evidence-based policies that balance cultural preservation, commercial interests, and community wellbeing.

    CANPTT concluded that national progress should be measured not merely by economic indicators but through protection of citizens’ health, dignity, and fundamental rights, asserting that public health considerations must take precedence over unrestricted commercial entertainment operations.

  • Soca Sliders snare 5th place in Park City

    Soca Sliders snare 5th place in Park City

    The Trinidad and Tobago national bobsleigh team continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency in international competition, achieving their fifth consecutive extended podium finish at the Park City leg of the North American Cup on December 3. The four-man crew, affectionately known as the ‘Soca Sliders,’ captured fifth position among fifteen competing nations with a combined time of 1:37.51 across two heats.

    Piloted by Axel Brown with team members Xaverri Williams, Shakeel John, and Micah Moore, the Caribbean squad delivered a strong opening run of 48.66 seconds followed by a slightly slower second descent of 48.85 seconds. This performance marks their third top-five finish within a fortnight, building upon fourth and fifth placements achieved during the previous Whistler, Canada leg of the competition circuit.

    The victory was claimed by Brazil’s quartet featuring Edson Bindilatti, Davidson De Souza, Rafael Da Silva, and Edson Martins, who clocked an impressive 1:36.87. South Korea secured second position (1:37.23), while Canada claimed third (1:37.25) in a tightly contested event.

    The Park City event follows an exceptional achievement by the Trinidadian team just four days prior, when the pairing of Brown and De Aundre John captured silver in the two-man bobsleigh event—the nation’s strongest performance in the young season. As of December 4, the team was scheduled for additional four-man competition, though results remained pending at time of reporting.

  • Senator: Government must not retreat on responsibility to fight crime

    Senator: Government must not retreat on responsibility to fight crime

    Independent Senator Dr. Marlene Attzs has issued a stark warning to the Trinidad and Tobago government, cautioning against abdicating its fundamental responsibility for public safety through the proposed Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill, 2025. During Senate deliberations on December 2, Attzs challenged the administration’s approach to combating crime, arguing that the legislation effectively shifts the burden of security from the state to ordinary citizens.

    The senator directly addressed previous comments by government senator Dr. Kirk Meighoo regarding the UNC’s campaign promise to reduce crime by 50% over five years. ‘The government cannot retreat from the battle it was elected to fight,’ Attzs declared, emphasizing that public safety constitutes an essential public good that must be delivered by the state rather than privatized.

    Attzs characterized the proposed stand-your-ground legislation as potentially signaling ‘a quiet retreat by the state from perhaps its most fundamental duty.’ She interpreted the bill’s underlying message as essentially telling citizens that the government acknowledges the mammoth scale of the crime problem and cannot guarantee public safety, thereby transferring the responsibility for self-defense to individuals.

    The senator expressed particular concern about the legislation potentially creating a ‘license to kill’ mentality, contradicting government descriptions of the bill as empowering citizens. ‘This is not empowerment,’ Attzs argued. ‘It is the privatization of violence and the outsourcing of the state’s most sacred duty to thousands of frightened, untrained, unsupported individuals.’

    Attzs further warned that the legislation would transform safety from a guaranteed public right into a ‘private gamble,’ replacing organized state-managed security with ad-hoc household-by-household defense. She noted the particular danger of disproportionate impact, explaining that ‘when violence is privatized, it is not privatized evenly,’ with resource-rich individuals able to fortify themselves while marginalized communities become more vulnerable.

    Citing international research, Attzs highlighted that stand-your-ground laws typically increase rather than reduce crime rates and disproportionately harm marginalized communities. She also questioned the timing of the legislation, noting it emerges amid a ‘troubling policy vacuum’ without a coherent national crime strategy and while criminal justice institutions remain ‘on some kind of life support.’

    While expressing empathy for government senator Brian Baig’s personal experience with home invasion trauma, Attzs cautioned that fear-based narratives should not form the foundation of lawmaking. The Senate continues its debate on the controversial legislation, which has sparked significant discussion about the state’s role in ensuring public safety.

  • New ADB board ‘imminent’ as cabinet completes due diligence

    New ADB board ‘imminent’ as cabinet completes due diligence

    Agriculture Minister Ravi Ratiram has confirmed that the appointment of a new governing board for the Agriculture Development Bank (ADB) is progressing, though the process has encountered unexpected delays due to rigorous Cabinet-level vetting procedures. The minister made these statements following a ceremonial distribution of Brazilian green dwarf coconut seedlings at the Central Experiment Station in Centeno on December 1.

    Minister Ratiram emphasized that multiple proposed board configurations have undergone Cabinet review in recent weeks, with each candidate subjected to comprehensive background verification and eligibility assessments. “The Cabinet, under the Prime Minister’s leadership, ensures all board appointees fully meet statutory requirements,” Ratiram stated, acknowledging the time-consuming nature of these mandatory checks.

    The future board’s mandate will encompass establishing policy direction, strategic oversight, and addressing operational challenges including workforce management issues. While expressing urgency for the board’s installation, Ratiram declined to specify particular matters awaiting board attention, preferring to let the incoming directors address them upon formal appointment.

    Regarding agricultural concerns beyond the banking sector, Minister Ratiram directly addressed circulating rumors about fertilizer shortages affecting rice cultivation. He categorically dismissed these claims, asserting that multiple fertilizer varieties remain commercially available and that ministry researchers are actively evaluating optimal formulations for current crops.

    The minister revealed that the rice industry is currently in replanting phase following recent harvests, with seed distribution already completed. While acknowledging some concerns regarding germination rates, Ratiram confirmed ongoing collaboration between the ministry and relevant boards to address these agricultural challenges.

    Ratiram concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to agricultural development, highlighting ongoing support programs ranging from genetic seed improvement to water management initiatives and extension services.

  • Nigel Rojas introduces Afrobeat-inspired sound with new single

    Nigel Rojas introduces Afrobeat-inspired sound with new single

    Caribbean music icon Nigel Rojas, renowned frontman of reggae-rock fusion band Orange Sky, has unveiled his groundbreaking single “Too Many,” marking a significant departure into Afrobeat-inspired territory while maintaining his signature emotional depth. The release arrives as a precursor to the band’s 30th anniversary EP scheduled for April 2026, signaling a new creative direction in Rojas’ three-decade career.

    The composition emerged from a profoundly contrasting moment where natural beauty collided with global tragedy. Rojas described witnessing a motionless butterfly on his windowsill that suddenly took flight, creating a serene atmosphere instantly shattered by news reports of Gaza bombings and civilian casualties. This emotional juxtaposition of nature’s fragility and human conflict became the creative catalyst for the track.

    Produced by Nigerian Afro-rhythms specialist Skimzea with technical execution by Aaron Marques, “Too Many” incorporates authentic Afrobeat grooves while preserving the artistic integrity that has defined Orange Sky’s musical philosophy. The track maintains the band’s longstanding commitment to lyrical themes of truth, compassion, and unfiltered social commentary.

    Early receptions from fans and music industry professionals have demonstrated enthusiastic approval, with many praising the song’s infectious rhythm coupled with its thought-provoking message. Rojas acknowledges this dual appeal, noting how listeners have connected simultaneously with the track’s danceable quality and its substantive content.

    Lyrically, “Too Many” explores the contemporary paradox of coexisting love and conflict within modern society, addressing global turmoil while emphasizing humanity’s enduring capacity for compassion. The single follows Orange Sky’s recent release “Family Love” and will feature prominently on the upcoming anniversary EP, with fans anticipating additional new music and special surprises throughout the 30th-anniversary celebration period.

  • Trinidad and Tobago cricketers shine in Peru

    Trinidad and Tobago cricketers shine in Peru

    The Trinidad and Tobago national cricket teams delivered a spectacular performance on the opening day of the T20 tournament at the 2025 Bolivarian Games in Lima, Peru, on December 4th, securing victories across all matches with exceptional individual displays.

    In the women’s competition, the TT squad demonstrated formidable prowess with two commanding wins. Their opening match against Jamaica concluded with a comfortable seven-wicket victory, largely attributed to veteran off-spinner Anisa Mohammed’s brilliant 4/12 bowling figures across four overs. The rising talent Samara Ramnath provided crucial support with 2/14, restricting Jamaica to a modest 77/6 despite West Indies batter Rashada Williams’ resilient 47 not out from 61 deliveries.

    The women’s team continued their dominance with a staggering 108-run triumph over Barbados. Opener Shunelle Sawh anchored the innings with a solid 46 off 45 balls, supported by valuable contributions from Britney Cooper (25 not out), Shania Abdool (23), and Djenaba Joseph (22). Barbados’ batting lineup collapsed dramatically against TT’s bowling attack, particularly spinner Karishma Ramharack who recorded impressive figures of 3/3, limiting Barbados to just 38/9.

    The men’s team mirrored this success with equally impressive performances. They decimated host nation Peru by nine wickets, with spinner Damion Joachim producing a masterclass performance of 4/3 including two maiden overs. Opening batsman Kamil Pooran unleashed a devastating assault, hammering 54 not out from just 19 deliveries with four boundaries and five sixes, guiding TT to victory in merely 5.3 overs.

    Completing their perfect day, the men’s team secured a second victory against Jamaica by six wickets. Pacer Shaaron Lewis led the bowling attack with 3/13, while Leonardo Julien’s unbeaten 60 from 41 deliveries ensured a comfortable chase of Jamaica’s 133/8 total.

    The tournament continues on December 5th with TT positioned as early favorites following their comprehensive opening-day dominance.

  • Health Minister Dr Lackram Bodoe: No shortage of critical meds

    Health Minister Dr Lackram Bodoe: No shortage of critical meds

    Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe has issued firm assurances that Trinidad and Tobago’s public health system maintains adequate supplies of cardiovascular, hypertension, and cancer medications, despite recent revelations of significant pharmaceutical wastage. The confirmation comes in response to disclosures made during a December 1 sitting of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee, which uncovered that approximately $80 million worth of unused drugs had expired in storage over the past decade.

    In an exchange with Newsday via WhatsApp, Minister Bodoe addressed concerns regarding potential impacts on the Chronic Disease Assistance Programme (CDAP), a vital initiative providing free prescription medications for diabetes, hypertension, cardiac conditions, and other chronic diseases. When questioned about how the addition of five new drugs to the CDAP formulary on October 1 might affect existing stockpiles, and what preventive measures would be implemented to curb future waste, Bodoe provided detailed reassurances.

    “I am advised that these medicines remain available across the regional health authorities for the population, and that patient care is not at risk,” Bodoe stated emphatically. He elaborated on the ministry’s operational framework, noting that “the ministry operates through a structured, accountable procurement and supply-chain process that ensures continuous availability of essential drugs. Procurement decisions are guided by clinical need, safety, quality and value for money.”

    The Health Minister emphasized that citizen health and well-being constitute the ministry’s paramount priority, with daily monitoring protocols actively ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving medications throughout the healthcare system.

  • Padarath, Browne argue over language

    Padarath, Browne argue over language

    A significant political confrontation has erupted in Trinidad and Tobago regarding diplomatic rhetoric surrounding US-Venezuela tensions. Government Minister Barry Padarath has vehemently rejected opposition senator Dr. Amery Browne’s appeal for Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to moderate her language concerning the nation’s position on Caribbean geopolitical affairs.

    Padarath, serving as both Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and Government Whip, issued a formal statement characterizing Browne’s criticism as “a profound mischaracterization of the Prime Minister’s statements” and “a startling display of selective outrage.” The minister accused the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) of longstanding “political contamination” of national discourse through hostile rhetoric.

    The government’s response highlighted what it described as a pattern of hypocrisy, noting Browne’s silence when former PNM leader Dr. Keith Rowley allegedly used derogatory terms including ‘jamette’ to reference women, made comparisons between golf courses and women, referred to citizens as ‘hyenas,’ and employed racially charged language.

    Padarath established clear conditions for rhetorical moderation, stating the Prime Minister would “cool it” only when specific national security improvements occur: reduction in murders, cessation of illegal firearms flow, dismantling of drug trafficking networks, eradication of human trafficking, and enhanced public safety for all citizens regardless of background.

    In rebuttal, Browne condemned what he characterized as the government’s adoption of “the worst aspects of vicious politics,” citing “gas-lighting, distractions, toxic language, and baseless allegations” as standard practice among governing party officials. The opposition senator expressed concern about governmental indifference to societal polarization exacerbated by discriminatory employment practices and rising food prices, creating palpable tension among the population.