Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Inspired fireworks law

    Inspired fireworks law

    In a remarkable display of cross-party cooperation, Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament has achieved a legislative breakthrough with the unanimous passage of comprehensive fireworks regulations. The newly enacted law, which amends the Summary Offences Act, represents a significant shift in the nation’s approach to pyrotechnic management after years of deliberation.

    The legislation establishes precise temporal restrictions for fireworks usage, permitting discharges exclusively during Old Year’s Night celebrations around midnight and on public holidays between 8 pm and 9 pm. The law designates extensive protection zones surrounding hospitals, zoos, animal shelters, agricultural facilities, forest reserves, national parks, and airports where fireworks are entirely prohibited.

    A revolutionary provision empowers citizens to actively participate in enforcement by legally authorizing them to record unauthorized fireworks discharges using mobile devices. This digitally captured evidence will be admissible in judicial proceedings, eliminating the requirement for law enforcement to witness violations directly.

    The regulatory scope has been substantially expanded to include various pyrotechnic devices such as crackers, while introducing first-time oversight of toy fireworks and noise-reducing variants. Access to permits will be restricted exclusively to adults, reflecting the legislation’s emphasis on responsible usage.

    The legislative process demonstrated exceptional political collaboration, with the governing UNC administration accepting amendments proposed by opposition PNM representatives. This consensus-built legislation originated from a Law Reform Commission document dating back to April 2020, transcending multiple governmental administrations.

    Implementation will commence following official proclamation by the Cabinet, allowing time for comprehensive public education initiatives and coordination with fireworks industry stakeholders. Additional government agencies including the Environmental Management Authority, Fire Service, and municipal corporations will be integrated into the enforcement framework under recently adopted amendments.

    While the legislation addresses discharge regulations rather than sales governance, and excludes certain sensitive locations like police stations and prisons from protection, it establishes a foundational framework for future refinement. The act’s successful passage provides a template for productive parliamentary cooperation in the nation’s 13th Parliament.

  • Why Tobago must welcome upgrades

    Why Tobago must welcome upgrades

    A significant public discussion has emerged regarding ongoing infrastructure enhancements at Tobago’s ANR Robinson International Airport, particularly concerning the involvement of foreign technical personnel. This development has generated substantial attention across social media platforms and community messaging channels, prompting both concern and calls for rational assessment.

    The situation involves two distinct operational components: civil engineering improvements to optimize airport accessibility and traffic management systems, alongside substantial upgrades to radar surveillance capabilities designed specifically to combat transnational criminal activities. These measures target drug trafficking networks and human smuggling operations that exploit Tobago’s maritime approaches.

    Government officials have emphasized the defensive nature of these enhancements. Prime Minister Keith Rowley personally briefed Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine regarding the sensitive security aspects, demonstrating administrative transparency within operational security constraints. Subsequent face-to-face consultations in Tobago provided detailed technical specifications, including civil engineering diagrams clarifying road alignment and land ownership matters.

    The advanced radar systems specifically address emerging security challenges, enabling detection and interception of low-altitude aircraft and unmanned drones increasingly employed by traffickers. Defense Minister Fitzgerald Hinds and Chief Secretary Augustine have consistently characterized these installations as defensive tools for domestic law enforcement rather than instruments of foreign military strategy.

    From a geopolitical perspective, analysts note that Tobago’s strategic cooperation enhances regional security intelligence sharing while creating deterrence effects against criminal elements. The improved infrastructure simultaneously supports economic objectives through enhanced airport functionality, tourism facilitation, and transportation reliability—critical factors for Tobago’s tourism-dependent economy.

    While acknowledging legitimate public interest in operational transparency, government representatives stress the necessity of protecting sensitive security protocols. The administration has committed to providing appropriate oversight mechanisms and summarized versions of international cooperation agreements, redacting only operationally critical details.

    This balanced approach reflects democratic governance principles: ensuring public safety through modern security measures while maintaining accountability through reasoned public discourse and institutional oversight.

  • Pinder defends record as he announces his intention to exit frontline politics

    Pinder defends record as he announces his intention to exit frontline politics

    In a significant political development from The Bahamas, John Pinder, the Member of Parliament for Central and South Abaco, has formally declared he will not seek re-election. Pinder stated his decision stems from a belief that he can contribute more effectively “behind the front lines” rather than building a long-term political career.

    Pinder’s announcement occurs against a backdrop of reported dissatisfaction among senior members of his ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) in Abaco. Concerns were allegedly raised during a branch meeting attended by Prime Minister Philip Davis, where constituents criticized the MP’s perceived lack of visibility and a dismissive attitude toward local issues. Questions were also directed at the pace of post-disaster recovery efforts on the island.

    In defense of his tenure, Pinder pointed to substantial achievements in revitalizing Abaco’s economy and tourism sector. He emphasized that his primary focus upon entering office was to restore economic activity and reinstate Abaco as a key destination on the tourism map, a status he claimed was neglected by the previous Free National Movement (FNM) government.

    His international advocacy, he reported, successfully rebuilt global confidence, catapulting Abaco to become the nation’s second-largest stopover visitor destination after Nassau. On the infrastructure front, Pinder highlighted the completion or near-completion of critical Public Works projects, including road paving in Pelican Road and Central Pines, and the finalization of contracts for Sweeting’s Tract Water and Road works.

    A particular focus was placed on Moore’s Island, which received long-awaited investments such as rebuilt and extended fishing docks, a completed front street seawall, and an imminent start on a new clinic.

    Pinder confirmed that three individuals are vying for the party nomination to succeed him, and he expressed support for one candidate, whose identity he will disclose after the candidate selection committee concludes its meetings. Reflecting on his service, Pinder expressed “absolutely no regrets,” stating it was a “profound honor” to represent his constituency and reaffirming his unwavering dedication to Abaco’s advancement, albeit from a non-electoral role.

  • TPP’s Pollard: I could have done more for Tobago

    TPP’s Pollard: I could have done more for Tobago

    In a remarkable admission of underperformance, Tobago People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ian “Whitey” Pollard has publicly conceded his failure to fully deliver on development promises for the Mason Hall North/Moriah electoral district. The Secretary of Settlements, Public Utilities and Rural Development offered his apology during a December 9th constituency meeting, marking a significant moment in Tobago’s political landscape.

    Pollard assumed full responsibility for the development shortfalls while simultaneously attributing the challenges to financial constraints imposed by what he termed “the wicked PNM regime” over the past three years and four months. This dual acknowledgment of personal responsibility coupled with political blame-setting creates a complex narrative of accountability in Tobago’s governance structure.

    The housing crisis emerged as a central issue, with discussions highlighting Tobago’s growing demand for diversified housing solutions beyond traditional single-family units. The TPP has leveled serious allegations against the PNM, accusing them of withholding funds from an Inter-American Development Bank loan specifically designated for the Riseland housing project—a claim that adds layers to the ongoing political friction.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s November 4th announcement regarding the project’s imminent commencement contrasts sharply with Pollard’s portrayal of systematic fund withholding, creating competing narratives about the project’s status.

    With the January 12th elections approaching, Pollard delivered an impassioned plea for voter support, urging constituents to decisively remove the PNM from power. His appeal addressed potential voter apathy, acknowledging that internal governance realities often differ from campaign promises while maintaining that change must come through electoral participation rather than abstention.

    Pollard will face PNM’s Kwesi DesVignes, the former Secretary for Infrastructure, Quarries, and Environment, in what promises to be a closely contested battle that reflects broader political tensions affecting Tobago’s development trajectory.

  • Alexander: More radars needed across Trinidad and Tobago

    Alexander: More radars needed across Trinidad and Tobago

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander has vigorously defended the recent deployment of radar technology in Tobago, asserting that additional systems should be implemented nationwide to enhance security measures. The minister’s comments came during a December 9 media briefing outside Parliament, addressing heightened security concerns following the abduction of businessman Derek Tardieu and his wife Clarabelle from their Monos Island residence on December 6.

    The couple remains missing with kidnappers demanding a $2.5 million ransom for their release. Minister Alexander emphasized that advanced radar technology could substantially improve protection for citizens residing in the archipelago’s outlying islands. “We must take a definitive stance against such criminal activities,” Alexander stated. “These perpetrators potentially arrived by vessel… to abduct citizens of our nation.”

    Rejecting a return to normalcy amid ongoing security challenges, Alexander revealed, “We witness similar incidents daily with unauthorized vessels entering our waters undetected. This precisely why we’re strategically deploying cutting-edge technology to prevent such occurrences.” The minister expressed personal commitment to encircling the nation with protective technologies if given sole authority.

    When questioned about potential United States military utilization of the radar system amid tensions with Venezuela, Alexander remained evasive, noting only that Trinidad and Tobago would “benefit from the situation” regarding foreign entities entering the country with malicious intent. Pressed on data-sharing arrangements, the minister described all operations as “joint ventures in and around TT” without providing specific details.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, separately addressing journalists, redirected technical inquiries to Defense Minister Wayne Sturge. While confirming Trinidadian military personnel access to radar data, she acknowledged unspecified external parties might have access but deemed such information potentially “too sensitive for public disclosure.” The Prime Minister emphasized that Minister Sturge possesses the comprehensive details regarding data-sharing protocols.

  • Roberts predicts TPP sweep in THA elections

    Roberts predicts TPP sweep in THA elections

    In a bold political forecast, Housing Minister Anil Roberts has projected a comprehensive electoral triumph for the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) in the forthcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. The prediction emerged during Senate deliberations on the Finance Bill 2025 on December 9, where Roberts engaged in heated exchanges with Opposition senators.

    Roberts systematically dismantled claims by PNM senators that the United National Congress (UNC) government had performed poorly since its April 28 general election victory. The UNC secured 26 parliamentary seats compared to PNM’s 13, with the TPP capturing two seats—creating an unconventional seating arrangement where TPP legislators occupy government benches despite no formal coalition agreement.

    The minister employed sharp sarcasm when referencing PNM’s electoral prospects, stating: ‘I expect the people of Tobago on January 12 will bring the PNM back’—a remark met with knowing laughter from government benches. He contextualized his prediction by recalling the PNM’s devastating 14-1 defeat by the Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) in the 2021 THA elections, noting that most PDP representatives subsequently defected to form the TPP in August 2023.

    Roberts attributed the anticipated TPP landslide to public disillusionment with PNM’s governance approach, accusing them of prioritizing ‘friends, family and financiers’ over public welfare. He vehemently defended Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar against claims of ethnic bias, praising her inclusive cultural policies and broad popular support.

    The political theater intensified as Roberts addressed temporary Opposition Senator Mustapha Abdul-Hamid—returning to Parliament after a 15-year absence—declaring that even the symbolic resurrection of PNM founder Dr. Eric Williams would fail to revitalize the party. Government senators expressed vigorous approval through desk-thumping applause as Roberts concluded that the population would never permit another PNM administration.

  • LETTER: Concerns Raised Over Abracadabra DJ’s Actions and Breakdown of Law Enforcement

    LETTER: Concerns Raised Over Abracadabra DJ’s Actions and Breakdown of Law Enforcement

    A significant legal and political controversy has emerged in Antigua and Barbuda regarding the enforcement of the nation’s Noise Abatement Act of 1997. The core of the dispute centers on allegations that the Prime Minister has instructed police and the National Parks Authority to cease enforcing this longstanding legislation, which was originally enacted by Parliament to protect hotels and residents from excessive nighttime noise.

    The conflict gained public attention through a viral video featuring an individual openly criticizing the National Parks Authority. Critics have drawn parallels between this rhetoric and the incitement that led to former U.S. President Trump’s impeachment following the January 6th insurrection, raising questions about why local authorities haven’t made arrests despite the publicly available evidence.

    Legal experts emphasize that enforcement authority for the Noise Abatement Act rests solely with the police, not the National Parks Authority. The law’s implementation was reportedly championed by Assistant Police Commissioner Wade during public consultations, highlighting its necessity for addressing community disturbances that regularly extended into early morning hours.

    The current situation has sparked serious constitutional questions about the separation of powers in the Caribbean nation. Citizens and legal observers are questioning whether the Cabinet possesses authority to override parliamentary laws and selectively determine which legislation receives enforcement—a development that challenges fundamental principles of democratic governance and rule of law.

    The unfolding controversy reflects broader concerns about legal consistency and political influence in law enforcement matters, potentially setting significant precedents for how Antigua and Barbuda balances executive power with legislative authority.

  • LETTER: Shugy Shame on You, Targeting a Soup Kitchen Instead of Serving Our Constituency

    LETTER: Shugy Shame on You, Targeting a Soup Kitchen Instead of Serving Our Constituency

    A significant political controversy has emerged in the St. Mary’s South constituency concerning the utilization of parliamentary allowance funds. For over two years, Shugy, the sitting Member of Parliament for the area, has faced mounting criticism for allegedly failing to deploy his constituency allowance in a manner that delivers visible benefits to his constituents. Community members report an absence of sustained programs, developmental initiatives, or direct support mechanisms funded through these allocated resources.

    The situation escalated recently when the MP attempted to discredit a local relief effort, the St. Mary’s South Soup Kitchen, operated by Dwayne George. During a parliamentary session, Shugy suggested that the initiative improperly used vouchers belonging to others to procure supplies—a claim that has been vehemently denied and categorically refuted.

    A thorough investigation reveals that the soup kitchen’s operations have been sustained primarily through personal sacrifice and community goodwill. Mr. George has frequently utilized his own finances to ensure consistent food distribution, particularly during periods of resource constraints. The initiative’s methodology involved transparent solicitation of assistance and collaborative community engagement, with no misuse of vouchers or public resources at any stage.

    What many find particularly disconcerting is the deliberate targeting of a humanitarian project that provides essential nourishment to elderly, vulnerable, and economically disadvantaged residents. This incident has sparked a broader debate about ethical representation and the moral responsibilities of elected officials.

    Despite political opposition, the soup kitchen has expanded its outreach and continues to garner robust community endorsement. Its operational success and positive social impact remain undeniable, serving as a testament to grassroots resilience and civic solidarity.

    The prevailing sentiment within the constituency suggests that electoral accountability will ultimately reflect residents’ dissatisfaction with the current representation, emphasizing that compassionate service and factual integrity will outweigh political misrepresentation.

  • Geen begrotingsbehandeling in december: regering werkt aan aangepaste cijfers voor 2026

    Geen begrotingsbehandeling in december: regering werkt aan aangepaste cijfers voor 2026

    Suriname’s National Assembly has officially postponed deliberations on the 2026 national budget following critical consultations between Finance Minister Adelien Wijnerman and parliamentary committees. The joint session of the Permanent Committee for Finance and Planning and the State Expenditure Committee concluded that December consideration would be impossible due to ongoing fiscal recalibrations.

    Minister Wijnerman revealed that recently completed tax agency reforms have uncovered systemic irregularities and administrative backlogs within revenue collection systems. These findings necessitate significant revisions to projected tax income estimates, compelling comprehensive budget adjustments. The minister has already consulted with President Jennifer Simons regarding substantive reallocations primarily affecting education, agriculture, and tourism sectors.

    The restructuring focuses exclusively on project financing reconfigurations while maintaining unchanged allocations for goods and services. International organization contributions and the national debt management strategy will also undergo substantial revisions. Parliamentary committee chairs emphasized that both the amended budget proposal and modified debt plan must be formally submitted before legislative proceedings can commence.

    Notable attendees included Committee Chair Rabin Parmessar alongside members Asis Gajadien, Rossellie Cotino, Jennifer Vreedzaam, Ronny Asabina, Jeffrey Lau, Kishan Ramsukul, and Steve Reyme. Observers Stanley Betterson, Xiaobao Zheng, and Tashana Lösche monitored the proceedings that determined Suriname’s budgetary timeline shift into the new year.

  • UPP Skips V.C. Bird Day, Honours All National Heroes

    UPP Skips V.C. Bird Day, Honours All National Heroes

    For a consecutive year, the United Progressive Party (UPP) has deliberately abstained from participating in the official V.C. Bird Day celebrations organized by the government. In a clear demonstration of political dissent, the principal opposition faction opted to conduct its own separate commemoration at an alternative venue, distinctly distanced from the state-sanctioned ceremony. This calculated absence underscores a deepening rift within the nation’s political landscape, transforming a day intended for national unity into a platform for showcasing partisan divisions. The move signals a persistent strategy of challenging the incumbent administration’s authority and narrative control over national symbols and historical events. Political analysts interpret this repeated boycott as more than mere protest; it represents a fundamental disagreement with the government’s policies and governance style. The party’s decision to host a parallel event further establishes a competing forum for political discourse, potentially reshaping how citizens engage with national heritage and official narratives. This development reflects broader tensions that characterize the current political climate, where traditional ceremonies become battlegrounds for ideological influence and public support.