分类： politics

Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has raised concerns over the government’s recent decision to ban fetes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA), questioning the timing and potential foreign interest in the venue. Speaking at a media conference in Port of Spain on November 13, Beckles referenced Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s statement during the 2025/2026 budget debate about creating a state-sponsored real estate investment trust (REIT). Tancoo described the initiative as a landmark effort to democratize state-owned assets, diversify Trinidad and Tobago’s capital market, and broaden public participation in national wealth creation. High-value income-generating properties, including land, office buildings, and commercial infrastructure, would be transferred into the REIT, with shares listed on the TT Stock Exchange to allow investors to earn dividends. Beckles questioned whether the BLCA was among these properties and hinted at potential foreign interest in the venue. She also criticized the government’s handling of noise pollution, noting that it is a widespread issue not unique to the BLCA. Beckles recalled developing an app during her tenure as planning and environment minister to monitor noise levels in Woodbrook, with plans to share data with other communities. She emphasized that the BLCA’s carpark, used for events, is restored after use, with fees withheld if requirements are not met. Beckles also expressed concerns about the potential loss of revenue for Carnival 2026, citing the cancellation of the Independence Day parade and the extended state of emergency. She questioned the Prime Minister’s refusal to consult with promoters, stating that state-owned facilities like the BLCA belong to the public. Former ministers Faris Al-Rawi and Dr. Amery Browne echoed concerns about the impact on Carnival and regional perceptions of Trinidad and Tobago.

In a recent letter to the editor, Arthur Dash expressed his bewilderment over the small yet highly publicized demonstrations calling for ‘peace’ in the region. Dash emphasized that neither Trinidad and Tobago (TT) nor the United States is at war with Venezuela. Instead, the U.S. administration has declared a ‘non-international armed conflict against drug cartels,’ a crucial distinction that highlights the campaign against criminal networks responsible for flooding the region with cocaine, guns, and violence.

Dash questioned the motives of the protesters, asking if they were advocating for peace with drug cartels, the actual adversaries in this conflict. He criticized the opposition, its supporters, and certain media outlets for misleading the public into believing that TT is involved in a regime change operation, a claim both the U.S. and TT have repeatedly denied.

He pointed out that pro-Nicolás Maduro elements, both domestically and internationally, are spreading fear and confusion by falsely suggesting that TT is being dragged into a war with Venezuela. Dash highlighted the hypocrisy of the demonstrators, noting their silence when Venezuelan gunboats harass TT fishermen, when Venezuelan officials claim two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, and when they insult TT’s Prime Minister and threaten invasion or retaliation.

Dash concluded by affirming his support for the TT government, which he believes is on the right side of the fight—the side of law, order, and safety for its citizens. He reiterated the desire for peace but stressed that it should not come at the cost of aligning with drug cartels that have brought violence and destruction to the region.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has stirred significant controversy with her abrupt announcement to halt all fetes at state facilities, particularly the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba. The decision, revealed on November 10, came without prior warning, even as her administration had officially launched Carnival—a culturally significant national festival—just a week earlier. This unexpected move has left many questioning the timing and coherence of the directive, especially given the extensive planning required for such events. Earlier, on July 7, the Prime Minister had hinted at legislative measures to address noise pollution, gambling, alcohol, and marijuana abuse during a party event. However, she failed to provide a clear timeline, leaving the private sector unprepared for such sweeping changes. Despite her earlier assurances of exemptions for national festivals, the Prime Minister has now firmly stated that the decision is final and irreversible. The government’s messaging has been further muddled by Udecott officials, who justified the clampdown by citing the need to protect sporting facilities from damage. This comes just a week after the government unveiled a national development blueprint promising upgrades to the Queen’s Park Savannah, adding to the confusion. The Prime Minister’s approach has not only alienated the public but also sparked a heated debate with the TT Promoters Association, which has labeled the move a ‘death knell’ for the entertainment industry. A more collaborative dialogue between stakeholders could have prevented this week’s public discord, highlighting the need for clearer communication and strategic planning in addressing legitimate issues like noise pollution.