分类： society

In a recent commentary, Denelle Singh, an attorney at law, highlighted the critical issue of the low rate of applicants for foster care in Trinidad and Tobago. The manager of the Foster Care Unit at the Children’s Authority had previously raised concerns about this alarming trend, pointing out widespread confusion between foster care and adoption. Many potential foster parents are deterred by the lengthy approval process, which spans four to five months, ensuring that applicants are both physically and emotionally prepared for the role. However, the need for foster care is urgent. Children’s homes in TT are often over capacity, leaving many children without a safe and stable environment. These children are often removed from their homes due to neglect, abuse, or socioeconomic challenges, and without foster care, they face an uncertain future. Foster care offers a temporary, family-based solution that provides individualised attention, emotional bonding, and a sense of normalcy, which institutional care often lacks. It also allows time for birth families to address their issues, with the goal of possible reunification. The foster care system not only benefits the children and foster families but also strengthens communities and contributes to national progress. By empowering ordinary citizens to take an active role in child welfare, TT can disrupt cycles of adversity and create a brighter future for its most vulnerable citizens. The Foster Care Unit provides comprehensive support to foster parents, ensuring that children thrive in a nurturing environment. Strengthening the foster care system is not just a moral imperative but a societal one, as it shapes future citizens who can contribute positively to national development.

At just 14 years old, Amayiah Thomas is already making waves in the world of cosmetology while nurturing her dream of becoming a professional footballer. A third-form student at Chaguanas North Secondary School, Amayiah has been honing her skills in hairstyling, nail art, and makeup for the past four years, inspired by her mother, Akeela Flanders, a professional hairstylist.

In a landmark verdict on October 21, Marcus Pollard was acquitted of all charges related to a 2019 shooting incident involving his cousin, Raquel Charles. The jury delivered a unanimous not-guilty verdict after nearly two hours of deliberation in the Hall of Justice, Port of Spain, presided over by Justice Sherene Murray-Bailey. Pollard had faced charges of shooting with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition. The prosecution alleged that Pollard fired a single shot at Charles near her head on Blanchisseuse Road, Arima, on March 19, 2019, following a verbal altercation. A spent 9mm casing recovered at the scene was confirmed by the Forensic Science Centre, but no firearm or ammunition was found on Pollard, his vehicle, or his home. Pollard maintained his innocence, claiming that Charles fabricated the story due to family tensions and jealousy. He admitted to being in the area but denied firing a weapon. The defense highlighted the lack of forensic evidence, including gunshot residue or fingerprint analysis, and inconsistencies in Charles’ account compared to first responders’ statements. Prosecutors relied on Pollard’s 2019 police interview, where he acknowledged being in the area but denied the allegations. The defense team, led by attorneys Suneesh Singh, Mikkell Samaroo, and Kimberly Mackhan, successfully argued that the state’s case was implausible due to the absence of physical evidence and inconsistencies. The jury ultimately returned not-guilty verdicts on all counts, clearing Pollard of all charges.

The Syrian Lebanese Women’s Association of Trinidad and Tobago (SLWA) marked its 75th anniversary with a grand Diamond Jubilee Gala on October 11 at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad in Port of Spain. The event, attended by President Christine Kangaloo, her husband Kerwyn Garcia, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, and other dignitaries, celebrated the association’s legacy of service, sisterhood, and faith. SLWA President Genevierve Hadeed delivered a heartfelt speech, emphasizing the organization’s humble beginnings in 1950 and its evolution into a powerhouse of charitable work. The gala, coinciding with the Divali season, symbolized the association’s mission to dispel darkness with light. Over the decades, the SLWA has supported education, feeding programs, housing relief, and medical assistance, leaving an indelible mark on the community. The event also highlighted the intergenerational commitment of its members, with younger women bringing fresh energy and ideas. The celebration concluded with a call to continue serving with faith and unity, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

On October 20, just before 4 pm, Elspeth Duncan heard what she initially thought was a vehicle backfiring near her home. Assuming it was the typical noise from drag-racing cars, she dismissed it, expecting it to cease soon. However, the persistent explosions revealed a different source: individuals bussing bamboo in preparation for Divali. The noise, though less intense than fireworks, continued for hours, distressing her dogs and prompting her to administer calming tablets before leaving the house. Upon encountering the young men responsible, she learned that the tradition, fueled by the unavailability of fireworks, would persist until 7 pm. This exchange highlighted a broader issue: the disruption caused by such activities during festive seasons. That night, the community was further disturbed by extended firework displays, leaving dogs and residents alike in distress. Efforts to contact the police proved futile, underscoring the lack of enforcement. Duncan’s reflections extended to Tobago’s aspiration to become the ‘Best Little Island on the Planet,’ suggesting that banning fireworks could be a significant step toward this goal. She also emphasized the need for a unified approach across Trinidad and Tobago, advocating for the prohibition of both the sale and use of fireworks. As the festive season approaches, with Christmas and New Year’s on the horizon, the potential for increased noise pollution looms large. Duncan called for government action, referencing the Prime Minister’s promise to address excessive noise through legislation. She concluded with a plea to hold leaders accountable, emphasizing the need for peace and quiet in a time of growing unrest.