作者： admin

In a compelling letter to the editor, Navin Persad advocates for the imposition of higher taxes on fireworks, drawing parallels to existing taxes on cigarettes and alcohol aimed at curbing their use and protecting public health. Persad highlights the significant yet often overlooked harms caused by fireworks, including the release of harmful fine particles (PM2.5) and toxic metals into the air, which exacerbate conditions like asthma, heart disease, and respiratory problems, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Additionally, the noise from fireworks, which can exceed 150 decibels—louder than a jet engine—can lead to hearing damage, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, affecting not only humans but also pets and wildlife, who often suffer from panic, injuries, or displacement. Persad argues that increasing the cost of fireworks would reduce their use, as evidenced by the decline in tobacco and alcohol consumption following price hikes. The revenue generated from such taxes could be allocated to fund professional public displays, enhance emergency services, and promote public education on responsible celebration. While some may view fireworks as a cultural tradition, Persad emphasizes that traditions evolve, citing past changes like indoor smoking bans and seatbelt laws. He also addresses concerns about illegal sales, suggesting that robust enforcement and community celebrations can mitigate such risks. Ultimately, Persad contends that taxing fireworks is a prudent step toward creating a cleaner, quieter, and more compassionate society, where celebrations bring joy without harm.

A recent letter to the editor has highlighted the growing distress caused by the excessive use of fireworks during the Divali celebrations on October 20. The author, Aarti Gosine, expressed deep disappointment over the disruption, which turned what should have been a peaceful and joyous religious event into a night of chaos and fear. The loud explosions not only terrified animals, causing some to flee, get injured, or even die, but also severely affected vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly and those with health conditions. The noise was so intense that it was likened to the sound of wartime bombs, making the situation unbearable for many. Gosine called for immediate action through stricter enforcement, legislative review, or community awareness campaigns to ensure that future celebrations are conducted with respect and consideration for all. She urged the editor to use their influence to address this issue and take meaningful steps to protect both people and animals in the community.

The recent Divali celebrations in Trinidad descended into chaos as neighborhoods were transformed into what residents described as a ‘war zone.’ Fireworks exploded incessantly throughout the night, causing widespread distress among families, pets, and wildlife. Many reported their dogs trembling in fear, while others struggled to calm their terrified animals. The aftermath saw social media platforms flooded with posts about missing pets and complaints about the reckless use of fireworks. This stark contrast to the peaceful Independence Day celebrations, which followed a temporary fireworks ban, has left many disheartened. Residents had hoped for a permanent shift toward safer, more responsible festivities, but instead, the situation has worsened. Beyond the noise, fireworks have caused environmental harm, air and water pollution, and heightened anxiety among citizens, particularly during a weekend already fraught with tension due to US Embassy warnings. Amid a state of emergency, such activities should be prohibited. The author, Sharon Burford, urges the government to take decisive action by permanently banning the public sale of fireworks. She advocates for alternative celebrations, such as drone light shows, which are safer, environmentally friendly, and equally spectacular. Burford emphasizes the need for a government that prioritizes public well-being over the profits of fireworks vendors and calls for a future where holidays are free from fear and destruction.

In a heartfelt letter to the editor of Newsday, community advocate Vanessa La Fon Kallo from El Socorro expressed deep frustration over the persistent issue of noise pollution caused by fireworks. Kallo emphasized the need for a noise-free environment that respects all creeds, races, and vulnerable groups, including the elderly, infants, and animals. She called for concrete action by banning the importation of all fireworks, arguing that such measures would provide much-needed relief to those adversely affected by the loud disturbances. Kallo’s plea highlights the broader societal impact of fireworks, which often disrupt the peace and well-being of communities, particularly during holidays. Her letter underscores the importance of prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable in public policy decisions.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has likened her government’s decision to replace temporary make-work schemes like Cepep and URP with sustainable employment to ending ‘a kind of slavery.’ Speaking at the National Recruitment Drive held at the National Cycling Centre in Couva on October 23, Persad-Bissessar expressed her satisfaction in providing meaningful jobs for citizens. She emphasized that the overwhelming turnout reflected the public’s eagerness for stable employment opportunities. The Prime Minister addressed criticisms of phasing out Cepep and URP, stating that these programs offered only short-term relief and did not enable citizens to secure mortgages or fund education. She described such schemes as ‘hand-to-mouth feeding’ and vowed to create ‘real jobs for real people.’ The government plans to roll out these opportunities gradually, filling vacancies in ministries and fostering private-sector partnerships. Persad-Bissessar also highlighted the misuse of funds in previous programs, which reportedly drained billions from the Treasury and, in some cases, fueled criminal activity. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, however, urged the government to show compassion toward displaced workers, claiming that over 30,000 people were left jobless due to the shutdown of Cepep, URP, and the reforestation program. The recruitment drive, which concluded on October 24, received over 110,000 online applications. Officials will now review submissions and begin interviews on October 28. The initiative aims to provide employment across various sectors, including skilled and unskilled labor, engineering, and administrative roles. Persad-Bissessar visited multiple booths at the event, where ministry representatives shared application statistics. For instance, the Education Ministry received 56 applications on Thursday, bringing its total to 128. The Prime Minister reiterated her commitment to job creation, acknowledging that while not all 90,000 applicants would secure positions immediately, her administration is working diligently to fulfill its promises. The recruitment drive also extended to Princes Town, where scores of hopeful applicants gathered at the URP office. Nerue Mohammed, a long-time unemployed resident, praised the initiative, likening the previous employment struggles to ‘slavery days.’ Erica Gibbs, a former Cepep worker, welcomed the opportunity to secure a stable job as a cleaner. The drive is open to all citizens, regardless of background, offering a fresh start for recent graduates, skilled workers, and those seeking new opportunities.