Well Services Petroleum Company Ltd has announced the commencement of a salvage operation to recover the remains of Pete Phillip, an employee presumed dead following the partial collapse of Rig 110 in December last year. The operation, led by a US-based contractor, is being conducted in two phases. Phase one, currently underway, focuses on risk mitigation and site stabilization to ensure the safety of personnel, protect the marine environment, and preserve the integrity of surrounding assets. Regulatory approvals, including a Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) from the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), have been secured. Additionally, ‘Letters of No Objection’ have been obtained from the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries, the Ministry of Works and Transport – Maritime Services Division, and the Occupational Safety and Health Agency. Phase two will involve the recovery of Phillip’s remains and the removal of the rig structure. The company has kept Phillip’s family informed and remains committed to a safe, transparent, and environmentally responsible process, coordinating closely with regulators and stakeholders.
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Kamla bans fetes at Brian Lara Cricket Academy
In a decisive move to address the growing issue of noise pollution, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced on November 12 the immediate cessation of all fetes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba. The announcement, made via social media, highlighted the unbearable noise levels that have long plagued local residents. The Prime Minister emphasized that her government is committed to tackling this issue head-on, a promise made during her campaign. The Brian Lara Stadium has been a popular venue for major Carnival events such as Stink + Dutty, Out in South, and Prestige. Additionally, Persad-Bissessar revealed plans to introduce the Fireworks Legislation and enhanced noise pollution laws by the end of 2025. These new regulations will include designated quiet hours and stricter controls on fetes, music trucks, residential parties, and bars.
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Internet before more buildings
In a scathing critique of Trinidad and Tobago’s government, Rudy Paul, a concerned citizen, highlights the impracticality of multi-billion-dollar projects announced without clear funding sources. These projects, earmarked for completion over a decade, starkly contrast with the government’s five-year mandate, raising questions about their feasibility and underlying political motives. Paul draws parallels to Patrick Manning’s “Vision 2020,” a plan inspired by the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) but derailed by early elections and political shifts. He also points to the unfinished Arouca project and other abandoned initiatives, suggesting that such long-term planning is a tactic to secure re-election rather than genuine development. Paul advocates for completing existing projects, improving infrastructure like internet connectivity, and prioritizing practical solutions over grandiose, unfulfilled promises.
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New initiative to support network for Caribbean entrepreneurs
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), headquartered in Barbados, has joined forces with RevUP Caribbean to unveil the RevUP Founders Growth and Community Support Network. This innovative digital ecosystem is poised to offer enduring support to entrepreneurs across the Caribbean, marking a significant milestone in regional economic development.
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Small businesses in St James cry for help after Melissa
Small business owners in St James, Jamaica, are urgently seeking government assistance to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The Category 5 storm caused widespread destruction, leaving many businesses in ruins and their owners grappling with significant losses. Among the hardest hit is Andre Hall, whose barbershop and cook shop in Tucker district were severely damaged. Hall recounted how the storm washed away essential equipment and destroyed the roof, leaving only fragments of his business behind. To make matters worse, the few materials he salvaged were later stolen. Hall emphasized the need for building materials like cement, plywood, and 2x4s to rebuild his livelihood. He also highlighted the role of improper waste disposal in exacerbating flooding and is now advocating for better waste management practices in the community. Similarly, O’Brien Sterling, owner of Where Dirty Meets Clean car wash in Catherine Hall, faced extensive damage as floodwaters swept through his compound, destroying equipment and ripping off the roof. Sterling expressed the financial strain of starting over and the urgency to take action despite the challenges. Nearby, Juici Jerk Restaurant co-owner Nick is struggling to clean up his mud-filled eatery and repair the damaged roof. The lack of electricity and running water has further complicated recovery efforts. Nick appealed for government support to help small businesses like his rebuild. Gavin Beckford of K&N Auto and Monica McIntosh of DoDo’s Ply Rental also shared their struggles, with floodwaters washing away valuable materials and slowing business operations. Despite the hardships, these resilient entrepreneurs are determined to rebuild and restore their businesses, underscoring the need for immediate assistance and community solidarity.
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D&G Foundation donates $250,000 to United Way of Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to bolster national development, the Desnoes & Geddes (D&G) Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Red Stripe, has donated $250,000 to the United Way of Jamaica (UWJ). This generous contribution is earmarked for a variety of community-driven projects aimed at enhancing education, empowering families, and fostering social resilience. These initiatives are particularly crucial as Jamaicans grapple with the lingering effects of Hurricane Melissa and escalating cost-of-living pressures.
During the official handover ceremony, D&G Foundation representatives emphasized their unwavering dedication to initiatives that improve quality of life and create opportunities for Jamaicans to flourish. The collaboration between the D&G Foundation and UWJ is built on a mutual vision of cultivating sustainable and empowered communities through joint efforts and compassion.
Kerry Lue Lynch, Acting CEO of the United Way of Jamaica, expressed profound gratitude for the donation, highlighting its potential to amplify the organization’s capacity to address community needs and broaden the scope of its social programs. ‘When entities like the D&G Foundation step up, it enables us to extend our reach and effect lasting change in the lives of those who need it most,’ Lynch remarked. ‘This partnership exemplifies the transformative outcomes achievable through collective action for the greater good.’
Dennis Beckford, Accountant at the D&G Foundation, underscored the foundation’s commitment to social impact. ‘The United Way of Jamaica remains a beacon of hope and support for numerous families and community groups across the island,’ he stated. ‘Our donation embodies the foundation’s conviction that genuine progress stems from investing in people and fostering collaborations between the private sector and organizations driving social change.’
This donation marks another milestone in the D&G Foundation’s ongoing efforts to contribute to Jamaica’s socio-economic development, reinforcing the importance of private sector involvement in addressing societal challenges.
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Jamaican-American decathlete leads Hurricane Melissa relief initiative in Burnt Savannah
Claston Bernard, a renowned Jamaican-American decathlete and Commonwealth champion, is spearheading a significant relief initiative in his hometown of Burnt Savannah, St Elizabeth, Jamaica. The community is recovering from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa. Bernard, an alumnus of Louisiana State University and a former candidate for the office of consul general, has returned to his roots to lead the rebuilding efforts. Over the weekend, he joined forces with a group of US Navy veterans who have been actively involved in restoring the area. Their collaborative work, which includes providing essential support and reconstruction, is expected to continue through the end of November. Bernard’s dedication to his native community highlights the importance of local leadership in disaster recovery.
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PAHO calls for action as Americas loses measles elimination status
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued a call to action for countries across the Americas, including the Caribbean, to enhance surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, outbreak response, and vaccination campaigns. This urgent appeal follows the loss of the region’s measles-free status, a significant setback in public health. The decision was made by the PAHO Measles, Rubella, and Congenital Rubella Syndrome Elimination Regional Monitoring and Re-Verification Commission during a recent meeting in Mexico City. The Commission confirmed that endemic measles transmission has been reestablished in Canada, where the virus has circulated for at least 12 months. This marks the first time the Americas, which previously achieved measles elimination twice, have lost this status. As of November 7, 2024, 12,596 confirmed measles cases have been reported across 10 countries, with 95% of cases concentrated in Canada, Mexico, and the United States—a 30-fold increase compared to earlier this year. Tragically, 28 deaths have been recorded, primarily in Mexico. Active outbreaks are ongoing in Canada, Mexico, the United States, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Belize, largely driven by imported cases. PAHO emphasized that transmission primarily affects under-vaccinated communities, with 89% of cases occurring in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Children under one year old are the most vulnerable group. Measles, a highly contagious disease, can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, and death. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure, having saved millions of lives over the past decades. However, regional vaccination coverage for the second dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR2) has plummeted to just 7%, far below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. PAHO is providing technical support to affected countries, deploying experts, and monitoring risks in Belize, Brazil, and Paraguay. PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa urged countries to redouble efforts, emphasizing that cooperation, solidarity, and science can overcome this challenge. The Americas have previously regained measles elimination status after setbacks, and PAHO remains confident that the region can achieve this once more through sustained vaccination, surveillance, and outbreak response.
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Raheem Sterling’s house burgled again
Raheem Sterling, the Chelsea winger, and his family experienced a harrowing ordeal last weekend when burglars broke into their Berkshire residence. The incident occurred on Saturday while Sterling, his partner Paige Milian, and their children were at home. The intruders were reportedly confronted by Sterling, causing them to flee without stealing any items.
Sterling’s representative confirmed the incident on Wednesday, stating, “We can confirm that Raheem Sterling was the victim of a home break-in this weekend. He and his children were present at the time. While this was a severe violation of privacy and safety, we are grateful that he and his loved ones are unharmed.” The representative also urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
This is not the first time Sterling’s home has been targeted. In December 2022, burglars broke into his Surrey property while he was competing in the World Cup in Qatar, forcing him to return home early. During that incident, valuables worth £300,000 ($393,000) were stolen. Additionally, in 2018, thieves attempted to break into his Cheshire home but fled when the alarm system was activated.
Sterling’s recent challenges extend beyond personal security. He has yet to feature for Chelsea this season after being sidelined by manager Enzo Maresca. Following a disappointing loan spell with Arsenal last season, Sterling has been training separately from Chelsea’s first-team squad after failing to secure a transfer away from Stamford Bridge.
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Prisons officer held with contraband as he reported for duty
A prisons officer stationed at the Maximum Security Prison (MSP) in Golden Grove, Arouca, has been apprehended for allegedly smuggling contraband, including marijuana, into the facility. The officer, who has served for four years, was searched by police from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) upon reporting for duty on November 12 at approximately 8 am. During the search, authorities discovered several packets of plant-like material, cash, and cigarettes on his person. A subsequent search of his vehicle yielded similar items. The officer was arrested and taken to the Besson Street Police Station, where he is expected to face charges. A search of his residence is also planned as part of the ongoing investigation. Acting Prisons Commissioner Hayden Forde was informed of the arrest and emphasized that combating trafficking remains a top priority for the prisons administration. Forde issued a stern warning to his officers, stating that any involvement in trafficking would result in severe consequences, including being transferred to the division where contraband was delivered and facing judgment. He also praised the Prison Service Hotline for providing valuable information and commended the majority of honest and hardworking prison officers who uphold the integrity of the service.