Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Swaratsingh: ‘TT will hear soon where $$$ to pay PSA workers will come from’

    Swaratsingh: ‘TT will hear soon where $$$ to pay PSA workers will come from’

    The Trinidadian government confronts a substantial financial challenge as it seeks to secure $3.8 billion to fulfill back payment obligations to public servants following a recently concluded wage agreement. Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh has indicated that funding details will emerge “soon enough,” offering limited commentary while entering the Red House on November 28.

    The breakthrough occurred on November 27 when the Public Services Association (PSA) and the Chief Personnel Officer finalized an agreement granting union members a ten percent salary increase—a commitment originally made by the United National Congress during April’s general election campaign. The compensation package allocates one percent for each year between 2014 and 2018, plus five percent for 2019, collectively adding approximately $420 million to recurrent annual expenditures.

    Chief Personnel Officer Dr. Daryl Dindial confirmed plans to formalize the agreement through a memorandum of understanding with PSA representatives on December 1, preceding Cabinet submission for ratification. The Cabinet Secretary has reportedly expedited the process, allowing for consideration via an ad hoc note during the December 4 session.

    Opposition figures expressed cautious optimism alongside fiscal concerns. Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales acknowledged satisfaction with the resolution while emphasizing the need for transparency regarding funding mechanisms. Former Finance Minister Colm Imbert raised alarms about potential domino effects, projecting that similar settlements across public sector unions could escalate liabilities to approximately $20 billion in back pay and $2 billion in additional annual wage expenditures.

    Minister in the Ministry of Public Utilities Clyde Elder cautioned against renegotiations, stating that unions which previously accepted four percent agreements should not expect retrospective adjustments based on the PSA outcome. Elder highlighted the PSA’s particular struggles during previous administrations and noted that payment scheduling would fall under Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s purview.

  • Comrade Ralph falls

    Comrade Ralph falls

    The Caribbean political landscape has undergone a seismic shift with the decisive electoral outcome in St Vincent and the Grenadines. On November 27, voters delivered a stunning rebuke to incumbent Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and his United Labour Party (ULP), ending their 23-year governance with a resounding 14-1 parliamentary victory for opposition leader Godwin Friday’s New Democratic Party (NDP).

    This electoral result marks the most conclusive victory in the nation’s history since 1989, when the NDP previously secured all parliamentary seats under James Mitchell’s leadership. For Dr. Friday, aged 66, this triumph represents the culmination of a methodical political ascent. Conversely, for the 79-year-old Dr. Gonsalves, the defeat signals the conclusion of an extraordinary political era that began in 2001.

    While regional leaders including Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar celebrated the outcome as a “resounding democratic mandate,” constituency-level results reveal a nation characterized by deep political divisions. Despite his party’s overwhelming defeat, Dr. Gonsalves retained his own seat with 2,577 votes against 996 for his opponent. The ULP secured 27,148 total votes compared to the NDP’s 37,002, with overall voter participation declining to 62% from 67% in the previous election.

    The incoming administration campaigned on ambitious promises including economic revitalization, job creation with improved wages, addressing escalating crime rates, and enhancing national infrastructure. Potentially most significant internationally is the NDP’s historical commitment to sever diplomatic relations with Taiwan in favor of establishing ties with China—a geopolitical maneuver that would reduce Taiwan’s diplomatic partners to merely 12 nations worldwide.

    Dr. Gonsalves leaves behind substantial shoes to fill within CARICOM frameworks, where he served as a prominent advocate for climate justice, slavery reparations, and regional mediation efforts—most notably contributing to the Argyle Decree. His departure, combined with potential foreign policy recalibrations in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and now St Vincent, may signal broader geopolitical realignments within the Caribbean bloc, all while the United States under the Trump administration maintains its assertive stance toward Cuba and Venezuela.

    The veteran leader’s legacy includes steering the nation through multiple crises including the global financial downturn, COVID-19 pandemic, La Soufrière volcanic eruption, and Hurricane Beryl. He also presided over the development of the country’s inaugural international airport. However, his implementation of vaccine mandates eroded support among certain constituencies, and many voters ultimately believed his time in leadership had naturally concluded. Dr. Gonsalves’ anticipated role as opposition leader now presents an intriguing dynamic for the nation’s political future.

  • Eve proud of Naps’ title: I came to make a statement

    Eve proud of Naps’ title: I came to make a statement

    In a thrilling conclusion to the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premiership division season, Naparima College captured their sixth league title under the current format with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Signal Hill Secondary on November 27th. The championship marks a triumphant return for head coach Angus Eve, who previously guided the southern school to back-to-back titles in 2014 and 2015 before his stint with Trinidad and Tobago’s national teams.

    The title race came down to the final matchday with three teams separated by just three points. Naparima’s victory at Lewis Street in San Fernando propelled them to 37 points, narrowly edging out southern rivals St Benedict’s College (36 points) and Signal Hill Secondary (34 points). The Tobago-based Signal Hill squad saw their championship hopes dashed despite a late consolation goal from Raevion Marshall via an 83rd-minute penalty.

    Eve, who concurrently coaches TT Premier Football League side Club Sando, acknowledged the challenges of returning to school football after his time with national teams. ‘There were a lot of adjustments for me,’ Eve told reporters amid the celebrations. ‘I thought there were a lot of good teams in the league. There are a lot of well-organized teams and you saw that with four teams fighting for the title up to the last day.’

    The veteran coach implemented a strategic shift in his approach this season, emphasizing both defensive solidity and attacking freedom. Naparima conceded just eight goals in 15 matches while scoring 42—the fourth-highest total in the division. ‘We want to play efficient football,’ Eve explained. ‘We allowed the players in the front part of the pitch to express themselves and have the freedom to play within the structure of the team.’

    Eve paid tribute to previous Naparima coaches Reynold Carrington, Travis Mulraine, and Anthony Sherwood while emphasizing the importance of understanding the school’s football culture. ‘Sometimes, if you don’t know the culture of the place, you may not perform to the optimum in the environment,’ he noted.

    The championship victory demonstrates Eve’s continued coaching prowess as he balances multiple roles while maintaining his reputation for developing organized, difficult-to-beat squads capable of delivering results when it matters most.

  • If you can’t govern them, silence them

    If you can’t govern them, silence them

    A controversial attempt by Trinidad and Tobago’s Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander to petition the US Embassy for revoking visas of American-based critics has ignited profound concerns about democratic erosion in the Caribbean nation. The move, revealed through official ministry correspondence, suggests an alarming trend toward authoritarian tactics reminiscent of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro regime.

    The minister’s justification centers on claims that YouTube commentators and dual nationals are destabilizing the country—a narrative that critics argue externalizes governmental failures rather than addressing legitimate governance shortcomings. This approach mirrors the playbook of authoritarian leaders who silence dissent rather than engage with substantive criticism.

    Political analysts note the extraordinary nature of a sitting minister seeking foreign intervention to police Trinidadian speech abroad, effectively acknowledging the weakness of domestic democratic institutions. The situation represents a dangerous precedent where sovereignty is weaponized against citizens rather than protecting their fundamental rights.

    All eyes now turn to Prime Minister Keith Rowley, whose response—or lack thereof—will signal whether this represents isolated ministerial overreach or official state policy. The silence from the administration’s highest office risks validating what many fear constitutes a systematic dismantling of democratic norms through increasingly authoritarian measures.

    The developing situation reflects broader regional patterns where democratic facades crumble under the weight of leadership that prioritizes narrative control over transparent governance and accountability.

  • NPATT proud of you young parranderos

    NPATT proud of you young parranderos

    The National Parang Association of Trinidad and Tobago (NPATT) has issued a powerful statement of support for young parang performers following what appears to be public criticism targeting student participants. In a letter published by Newsday, NPATT’s youth officer Joseph Bertrand articulated the organization’s unwavering commitment to youth engagement in this traditional art form.

    NPATT emphasized the vital importance of their Junior Parang Festival initiatives, which include both the National Primary and Secondary Schools Parang Competitions and the recently introduced Tribute to the Icons presentations. These programs are specifically designed to preserve and transmit the complete cultural package of parang—encompassing its musical traditions, linguistic heritage, and underlying values—to younger generations through deliberate and respectful methodology.

    The association expressed concern about commentary that minimizes student efforts or undermines the substantial work undertaken by educational institutions, instructors, mentors, families, and established parang figures. NPATT contends such negative observations conflict with the fundamental principles of community, perseverance, and cultural dignity that parang embodies.

    Addressing young paranderos directly, the organization encouraged continued dedication to their craft, invoking the traditional Spanish phrase ‘con alma y corazón’ (with soul and heart). NPATT positioned these young performers as crucial connectors between the foundational icons who established the tradition and future generations who will inherit it.

    The association pledged ongoing support for youth development within the parang community, vowing to safeguard the art form’s authenticity while fostering an environment where parang can flourish through unity, mutual respect, and joyful expression.

  • Progressive policy on older vehicles

    Progressive policy on older vehicles

    In a significant policy shift, Trinidad and Tobago’s UNC government has implemented sweeping reforms to the nation’s vehicle import regulations, fundamentally altering access to classic, antique, vintage, and foreign-used automobiles. The transformative changes, announced during a November 20 post-Cabinet briefing by Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Eli Zakour, establish a formal classification system for historic vehicles while substantially relaxing age restrictions on imported cars.

    The newly approved regulatory framework introduces three distinct categories for heritage vehicles: ‘classic’ for cars 25 years or older, ‘antique’ for those exceeding 45 years, and ‘vintage’ for exceptional vehicles reaching 95 years of age. This classification system provides legal recognition and road-use authorization for historically significant automobiles that previously operated in a regulatory gray area.

    Concurrently, the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism has dramatically revised import rules for foreign-used vehicles. The permissible age for right-hand-drive private car imports has been extended from three years to under eight years, while light commercial vehicles may now be up to ten years old. These changes directly fulfill campaign promises made in the UNC’s 2025 manifesto to increase vehicle affordability and reverse what the administration characterized as overly restrictive policies under the previous PNM government.

    The economic implications of these reforms are substantial. Global market analyses indicate the classic car industry represents a $32-40 billion market worldwide, with the automotive restoration sector projected to reach nearly $8 billion by the early 2030s, growing at approximately 10% annually. The policy changes position Trinidad and Tobago to participate in this valuable economic ecosystem, potentially generating skilled employment in restoration crafts and heritage mechanics—fields that command significant wage premiums in developed markets.

    Beyond economic considerations, the reforms address practical mobility concerns for citizens by making reliable transportation more accessible. The previous three-year import restriction had priced many Trinidadians out of the vehicle market, particularly affecting middle-income families seeking quality transportation options. The expanded age allowances are expected to improve mobility without compromising vehicle safety or reliability.

    The government’s initiative also creates formal pathways for cultural preservation, enabling the establishment of restoration businesses, enthusiast clubs, and heritage events that celebrate automotive history. This structured approach aligns with international standards for historic vehicle conservation while generating tangible economic opportunities within the heritage sector.

    Transport Minister Zakour emphasized that the previous regulatory vacuum had constrained lawful use of historic vehicles and limited their economic potential. The new framework aims to unlock value both for automotive enthusiasts and ordinary citizens seeking affordable transportation solutions, representing what the administration describes as a balanced approach to regulatory modernization, economic stimulation, and cultural preservation.

  • Boyd shines but TT lose to Canada in Fiba 3×3 AmeriCup

    Boyd shines but TT lose to Canada in Fiba 3×3 AmeriCup

    In a thrilling display of 3×3 basketball prowess, Trinidad and Tobago’s national team delivered a spirited performance against Canada during their opening Group C match at the 2025 FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup in León, Mexico on November 28. Despite a spectacular individual effort from star guard Ahkeel “Smally” Boyd, the Caribbean squad ultimately succumbed to a 21-16 defeat against their North American opponents.

    The game commenced with Boyd establishing immediate dominance, single-handedly scoring Trinidad and Tobago’s first five points. The dynamic guard initiated the scoring with a crafty layup before stepping beyond the arc to sink a dramatic two-point shot, granting his team an early 3-0 advantage. However, Canada’s Jerome Derosiers shifted the momentum with a crucial jumper that propelled his team to a 5-4 lead—an advantage they would maintain throughout the remainder of the contest.

    Boyd’s exceptional performance culminated in a game-high ten points, including three impressive shots from deep range. His final long-distance conversion brought Trinidad and Tobago within striking distance at 18-16 with just over one minute remaining in the fast-paced ten-minute encounter. Despite this late surge, Canada’s experienced players demonstrated composure under pressure. Steve Sir connected on a critical jumper to extend the lead to 20-16, before Grant Audu sealed the victory with an uncontested layup following precise ball movement from Derosiers.

    Supplementary scoring for Trinidad and Tobago came from center Tyrik Singh with three points, while Boyd’s brother Ahkeem “Fato” Boyd contributed two points to the team’s total.

    The tournament journey began promisingly for the Trinidadian squad during the qualification phase, where they secured three consecutive victories. Their campaign commenced with a dominant 21-7 triumph over St Kitts and Nevis, followed by a hard-fought 21-18 win against Uruguay, and concluded with a default victory against Bahamas. The Boyd brothers were instrumental in these successes, combining for 17 points in the opener against St Kitts and 15 points in the crucial matchup against Uruguay.

    Following the Canada match, Trinidad and Tobago prepared to face Argentina later that evening. The tournament structure mandates that the top two teams from each of the four groups will advance to the quarterfinals scheduled for November 30, with the championship finale set for 8:55 PM that same evening.

  • Magnificent roasts

    Magnificent roasts

    In the realm of comfort food, few dishes rival the divine flavor and heartwarming appeal of expertly roasted meats. Culinary expert Wendy Rahamut presents a masterclass in transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences through traditional roasting techniques that yield crispy, well-browned perfection.

    Pot roasting emerges as an exceptional method for enhancing less tender cuts of beef. Through slow cooking and braising in aromatic marinades, even tougher meats transform into flavorful, tender masterpieces. These roasts not only serve as perfect main courses but also create exceptional leftovers for sandwiches.

    Wendy’s comprehensive guide details three distinct roasting approaches:

    Beef Pot Roast Preparation:
    A 3½-4 lb prime rump undergoes overnight marination in a sophisticated blend of minced garlic, olive oil, fresh thyme, black pepper, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and red wine. The cooking process involves careful browning, slow roasting at 350°F with periodic basting using beef or chicken stock, and precise temperature monitoring to achieve ideal doneness.

    Garlic-Infused Leg of Lamb:
    A 4 lb bone-in leg of lamb receives an intense marinade of Dijon mustard, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, cracked black pepper, fresh rosemary, and olive oil. After overnight marination, the roast cooks at 375°F until reaching the optimal internal temperature of 140°F, followed by essential resting before carving.

    Herb-Roasted Chicken Technique:
    A 4 lb chicken undergoes meticulous preparation with a paste of chopped chives, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, thyme, and black pepper. The bird marinates overnight before roasting at 375°F with continuous basting, resulting in exceptionally juicy meat with perfectly crisp skin.

    Each recipe emphasizes the importance of marination time, temperature control, proper resting periods, and sauce preparation techniques that transform pan drippings into flavorful accompaniments. These methods demonstrate how traditional cooking approaches can produce restaurant-quality results in home kitchens, celebrating the timeless appeal of roasted meats as both culinary centerpieces and versatile ingredients for subsequent meals.

  • Playwrights Workshop launches three plays for December

    Playwrights Workshop launches three plays for December

    Trinidad’s vibrant theatre community is set to host an extraordinary week of theatrical presentations during the first week of December. Three prominent organizations—Playwrights Workshop Trinbago (PWT), Trinidad Theatre Workshop (TTW), and Torch Theatre Company (TTC)—have joined forces to present a diverse program of performances and readings that highlight both emerging and established Caribbean talent.

    The cultural festivities commence on December 3 at 7 PM with PWT’s Monthly Readers Theatre Series, featuring a cold reading and audience discussion of ‘HerStory’ by Arnetia Thomas. This compelling drama explores the emotional journey of Claudette, a woman who channels her maternal instincts toward her extended family while grappling with her own inability to conceive. The narrative examines how personal pain can unconsciously affect relationships, following Claudette’s path toward self-discovery and empowerment.

    Thomas, an accomplished creative professional active since 2014, brings multifaceted experience to her writing. Holding a theatre arts degree from UWI, she has excelled as an actress, dancer, traditional mas performer, fire breather, educator, and director. She currently teaches theatre arts at Belmont Secondary School while co-managing her own theatre company, De Drama FacTTory, and traditional mas group Les Reines Djabbes.

    The theatrical journey continues on December 5 at 7 PM with a landmark off-script performance of Althea Milliband’s ‘Jury of Peers,’ directed by Marvin L Ishmael. This innovative production marks the first fully-staged interpretation of Milliband’s absurdist legal drama, which was inspired by a viral video depicting a crab wielding a knife. The play imaginatively explores the judicial implications of a crustacean potentially causing human fatality, questioning whether such an act could constitute self-defense, murder, manslaughter, or even suicide.

    Milliband, who describes herself as a revolutionary and aspiring playwright, developed this unconventional narrative after the bizarre video captured her creative imagination.

    Concluding the week’s events, Torch Theatre Company presents ‘Dat Is Mih Family’ on December 6 at 7 PM and December 7 at 6 PM. This improvisational Christmas comedy promises warmth and hilarity, offering audiences a lighthearted seasonal performance.

    All events will be hosted at the Trinidad Theatre Workshop’s venue at 6 Newbold Street, St Clair, Port of Spain. The Monthly Readers Theatre Series serves as a critical developmental platform for emerging playwrights, providing opportunity for script refinement through audience feedback and professional input. PWT encourages actors, directors, producers, and theatre enthusiasts to participate in these readings, as volunteers from the audience often contribute to the dramatic interpretations.

    Playwrights seeking to have their work featured in future readings must submit scripts for consideration through the MRTS program. Additional information regarding submissions and upcoming events can be obtained by emailing playwrightsworkshoptt@gmail.com, calling/texting/WhatsApping 351-6293, or visiting their social media channels @playwrightsworkshoptt on Facebook and Instagram.

  • The Marionettes Chorale ushers in Christmas at Queen’s Hall

    The Marionettes Chorale ushers in Christmas at Queen’s Hall

    The Marionettes Chorale, one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious performing arts ensembles, announces its highly anticipated annual Christmas concert series scheduled for December 5-7 at Queen’s Hall’s Winifred Atwell Auditorium. This cherished holiday tradition promises to deliver musical excellence through three public performances and an exclusive matinée dedicated to care home residents.

    Under the artistic direction of Gretta Taylor, Joshua Joseph, and guest conductor Dr. Nathan Nagir—a Trinidad and Tobago-born musician and Texas State University faculty member—the chorale will present a diverse repertoire spanning traditional carols, classical pieces, gospel arrangements, musical theater selections, calypso rhythms, and parang music. The program showcases both the adult and youth choirs alongside acclaimed soloists including Jacqueline Johnson, Debbie Nahous, Errol James, and Khadija Huggins.

    This year’s production features two special guest artists: renowned tenor Nigel Floyd and Payge Turner, the multi-talented singer-songwriter who gained national recognition on season 19 of NBC’s The Voice. Turner will perform a specially arranged piece alongside her mother, Jacqueline Johnson, marking a memorable family collaboration on stage.

    Established in 1963 and incorporated as a non-profit organization in 2005, the Marionettes Chorale has maintained six decades of artistic excellence, having premiered works by Caribbean and international composers, toured globally, and produced eight professional recordings. Their Christmas concerts have become cultural fixtures that annually draw multi-generational audiences.

    The 2025 series receives support from One Caribbean Media Ltd, Flow (Columbus Communications), AVIT Support Ltd, and Music Radio 97.1FM. Performance times are set for 7:00 PM on December 5-6 and 5:00 PM on December 7. Ticket information is available through orders@marionetteschorale.com, telephone inquiries at 790-1751, or via Queen’s Hall Box Office at 298-9089/376-5699 and queenshalltt.com.