In a significant move to streamline the nation’s energy sector, Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath convened a pivotal meeting with the executive team of the Power Generation Company (PowerGen) on October 9. The gathering, held at the ministry’s head office in Port of Spain, marked a new chapter in the governance of Trinidad and Tobago’s power generation framework. This meeting followed a recent Cabinet reshuffle, as detailed in an October 4 gazetted notice, which transferred the oversight of PowerGen, Trinidad Generation Unlimited, and Powergen from the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries to the Public Utilities Ministry. The transition was previously under the stewardship of Dr. Roodal Moonilal, the former Minister of Energy and Energy Industries. Joining Minister Padarath were Clyde Elder, Minister in the Public Utilities Ministry, and Shivanna Sam, Parliamentary Secretary in the same ministry. The discussions centered on enhancing the operational efficiency of PowerGen and reviewing existing Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Minister Padarath expressed optimism about the realignment, emphasizing its potential to foster greater synergy between electricity generation and distribution across the nation. PowerGen, established in 1994 as a subsidiary of the TT Electricity Commission (T&TEC), manages key power stations in Port of Spain, Point Lisas, and Penal. Despite several divestment initiatives, T&TEC retains a 51% stake in PowerGen. Padarath reiterated the ministry’s dedication to ensuring the reliability, transparency, and sustainability of the country’s power generation infrastructure, vowing to take a proactive approach to addressing sectoral challenges. In addition to his public utilities portfolio, Padarath, who represents Couva South in Parliament, also serves as a Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister. Reflecting on the Cabinet reshuffle, Padarath highlighted the urgent need to revisit the PPAs, which he claimed had been neglected by the previous administration. He underscored the government’s commitment to making these agreements more commercially viable and exploring new investment opportunities, in consultation with all stakeholders, as part of a long-term strategy for the energy sector.
分类： politics
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Rowley challenges government on OFAC licence details
Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has called on the current government to disclose the specifics of the six-month OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) licence granted by the United States to facilitate negotiations for a Dragon gas deal with Venezuela. Speaking at a press conference on October 10, Rowley emphasized that withholding such details could pose significant risks to Trinidad and Tobago, potentially endangering the nation’s future generations. The licence, announced by Attorney General John Jeremie on October 9, permits Trinidad and Tobago, along with entities like NGC, Shell PLC, and Futura Clara Ltd, to engage in transactions with Venezuela’s state-owned energy company, PDVSA. Jeremie highlighted that the current arrangement differs from the previous PNM administration’s approach, which involved licensing the entire project. Instead, the new ‘tiered approach’ grants a licence valid until April 2026, secured at a cost of less than $500,000—a stark contrast to the PNM’s $120 million expenditure with no tangible results. Rowley criticized the government’s indirect communication with Venezuela, attributing potential failures in negotiations to the administration’s alleged mismanagement since 2016.
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White House says Nobel Trump omission was ‘politics over peace’
The White House has strongly criticized the Norwegian Nobel Committee following its decision to award the 2024 Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, bypassing U.S. President Donald Trump. Steven Cheung, the White House Director of Communications, expressed his disapproval on social media platform X, stating, ‘The Nobel Committee has demonstrated that they prioritize politics over peace.’ Cheung further praised Trump, asserting that the President would continue his efforts to broker peace agreements, end conflicts, and save lives, describing him as a humanitarian with unparalleled determination. Since his re-election in January, Trump has repeatedly claimed he deserved the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in resolving multiple global conflicts, a claim many experts have dismissed as exaggerated. On the eve of the prize announcement, Trump highlighted his recent involvement in brokering a ceasefire in Gaza, which he described as the eighth war he had ended. Despite his assertions, Trump downplayed the significance of the award, stating, ‘Whatever they do is fine. I know this: I didn’t do it for that, I did it because I’ve saved a lot of lives.’ Nobel Prize experts in Oslo had previously indicated that Trump’s ‘America First’ policies were inconsistent with the ideals of the Peace Prize, as outlined in Alfred Nobel’s 1895 will.
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Spain hailed as strategic partner in Jamaica’s economic development
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, has highlighted Spain’s significant role in supporting Jamaica’s economic development. Speaking at Spain’s National Day reception held at the Spanish Ambassador’s residence in St Andrew, Senator Johnson Smith underscored Jamaica’s emergence as a model of sound economic management over the past decade, fostering a business-friendly environment. She emphasized the importance of recognizing bilateral partners like Spain and Spanish companies for their contributions to Jamaica’s economic and national development goals. Investments in the tourism sector were cited as a prime example of this fruitful partnership. In January, both nations formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for International Cooperation on Tourism, aimed at enhancing collaboration in gastronomy, human capital development, and resilience, reflecting their shared commitment to sustainable growth. Senator Johnson Smith expressed gratitude for Spain’s continued partnership, noting that Spanish investment in Jamaica’s tourism sector has exceeded US$2.5 billion. Spanish companies are among Jamaica’s largest investors, with major projects underway, including the Grand Palladium Hotel in Hanover, which will add 950 new rooms and dedicated housing for 550 staff members. The minister highlighted the project’s green planning and design, which will boost energy efficiency and sustainability while creating thousands of jobs. Spain’s Ambassador to Jamaica, José María Fernández López de Turiso, reiterated Spain’s commitment to trade and investment, noting that Spain is the fastest-growing economy in the Eurozone and a leading investor in Jamaica’s tourism industry. He also emphasized Spain’s diversified investments in renewable energy, construction, healthcare, and logistics, showcasing confidence in Jamaica’s economic strength.
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Junior Benjamin set to act as CoP
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Junior Benjamin is set to assume the role of acting Commissioner of Police for the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), as indicated in the Order Paper for the House of Representatives’ session on October 10. The document, published online on October 9, also revealed that Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Curt Simon will temporarily fill Benjamin’s position as DCP. The first agenda item for the House session involves a paper to be presented by Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander, which includes the nomination of Benjamin for the acting Commissioner role and Simon’s confirmation as acting DCP. Speculation surrounds the duration of these appointments and the reasons for the absence of substantive Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro, who could not be reached for comment on October 9. The Order Paper also outlines two motions for these nominations, to be debated by Members of Parliament (MPs). The motions reference Section 123 of the Constitution, which grants the Police Service Commission (PSC) the authority to appoint individuals to act as Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner. The PSC forwards nominees to the President, who issues notifications subject to parliamentary approval. President Christine Kangaloo issued Benjamin’s notification on October 3, with similar provisions for Simon. Additionally, Attorney General John Jeremie, SC, will introduce The Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) (Amendment) Bill, 2025, for debate. The House will also review reports from the Auditor General’s office, led by Jaiwantie Ramdass, concerning the delayed submission of annual financial statements by three regional corporations. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo will present these reports and propose their referral to the Public Accounts Committee.
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PM: Lee remains Housing Minister
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reaffirmed her decision to retain Caroni Central MP David Lee as Minister of Housing, despite ongoing legal challenges. In a WhatsApp message to Newsday on October 10, Persad-Bissessar stated, ‘Yes, he remains Minister of Housing. There will be no change to that.’ This declaration underscores her unwavering support for Lee, even as he faces renewed legal scrutiny. The Prime Minister emphasized her government’s commitment to the rule of law, asserting that the judicial process must proceed unimpeded. On October 9, opposition chief whip Marvin Gonzales argued that Lee should step down from his ministerial role while his case is before the courts, though he acknowledged Lee’s right to retain his parliamentary seat. Lee, along with businessman Hugh Leong Poi, was re-arrested on October 7 on charges related to the misuse of a vehicle tax exemption granted to MPs. Initially dismissed on April 7 by Chief Magistrate Christine Charles due to insufficient evidence, the charges were reinstated by Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard, SC. Lee was released on $1 million bail on October 8. Persad-Bissessar expressed confidence in the judiciary, stating, ‘We have respect for the courts of the land. Minister Lee was acquitted of these allegations before. Now that the charges have been re-laid, we have confidence in the courts to deliver a just result.’
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Sebas: I’m ‘ready to serve’ Ft Charlotte
Sebas Bastian, CEO of Island Luck, has announced his decision to step down from his gaming business to focus on his political aspirations. Bastian is seeking the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) nomination for the Fort Charlotte constituency, emphasizing his readiness to serve the community. His announcement follows an interview with the PLP’s Candidates Committee at the party’s headquarters, where he was greeted by enthusiastic supporters chanting, “Sebas is the man for Fort Charlotte.”
Bastian expressed confidence in his ability to balance his extensive business interests with public service, stating, “I have over 20 companies, and I’m only the CEO of one. I didn’t build my businesses by myself. I have more than competent teams to ensure continuity in those businesses. I’m here to serve. I have a higher purpose now, and I’m going to focus on that.” When asked directly if he would step down from Island Luck, he confirmed, “Absolutely. That’s a done deal. Without politics, I was stepping down.”
His decision to distance himself from the gaming industry is seen as a strategic move to align with the Gaming Act, which prohibits Cabinet ministers and their families from holding gaming licenses or financial interests in the industry. Prime Minister Philip Davis has reiterated that the government will not amend this law.
Bastian described his interview with the PLP committee as transparent and thorough, noting that members “didn’t spare anything.” While he was not given a specific timeline for the final decision, he was assured it would come soon. His candidacy has garnered significant support, including an endorsement from outgoing Fort Charlotte MP Alfred Sears, who announced in May that he would not seek re-election.
If selected, Bastian plans to prioritize initiatives such as establishing a community impact center, promoting affordable housing, and addressing the high cost of living. His business acumen and philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Island Cares initiative, have earned him strong backing from Fort Charlotte residents and PLP branch executives. Branch chair Dolores “Red” Archer Adderley praised his commitment to social causes, stating, “We chose him based on his knowledge, his participation in the country, his interest in social events, and his interest in caring for people.”
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Melania Trump says Putin talks secured return of Ukraine war kids
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, U.S. First Lady Melania Trump announced on Friday that she had successfully secured the release of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. This achievement followed weeks of discreet negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, initiated after a summit between Putin and her husband, former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Alaska. Melania revealed that eight children displaced by Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine had been reunited with their families within the past 24 hours.
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Let courts decide Lee’s fate
Recent developments surrounding Housing Minister David Lee have ignited a heated public debate, with many calling for his immediate dismissal following the re-filing of charges against him. However, these demands have been met with strong opposition from those who argue that such actions undermine the fundamental principles of justice and democracy. Political analyst Professor Hamid Ghany has emphasized that the circumstances of this case are distinct from others, noting that the charges were previously dismissed, suggesting a lack of substantial evidence. He posits that these charges may once again fail under legal scrutiny. The core issue at hand transcends Lee’s political career, touching upon the foundational democratic principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty.’ Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reiterated her confidence in the judicial system, urging the nation to respect the rule of law and due process. This stance highlights the necessity of maintaining fairness and integrity in the face of media trials and political witch-hunts, which threaten to erode the very fabric of democratic institutions.
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Ex-Point Fortin mayor: Divided TT must unite on stand-your-ground law
Former Point Fortin Mayor Abdon Mason has issued a compelling call for all 41 Members of Parliament (MPs) in Trinidad and Tobago to set aside partisan differences and collaborate on the proposed stand-your-ground legislation. Speaking at a public consultation held at the Point Fortin Borough Corporation on October 7, Mason emphasized the importance of prioritizing national interests over political affiliations. While he expressed gratitude to Point Fortin MP Ernesto Kesar for organizing the session, Mason refrained from outright endorsing the bill, stating, ‘I would support any legislation which aims to protect the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.’ Mason highlighted the nation’s growing divide between ‘the fearless and the fearful,’ placing himself in the latter category as a father concerned for his children’s safety. He also lamented the polarization between political factions and ethnic groups, urging unity and mutual respect. Recalling a dramatic demonstration by Minister of National Security Roger Alexander, Mason underscored the urgency of addressing home invasion fears. He appealed to MPs to transcend political noise and focus on the legislation’s potential benefits for the population, emphasizing the need for progress beyond electoral disappointments. Mason concluded, ‘Let us leave the pettiness aside and look at the true value of the legislation and its benefit to the population.’