In a significant move to bolster Tobago’s workforce, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) and the National Training Agency (NTA) have formalized a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at equipping the island’s current and future workforce with globally competitive skills. The agreement was signed on November 6 at the Victor Bruce Financial Complex in Scarborough, Tobago, in a ceremony attended by key stakeholders, including NTA chairman Chandar Gupta Supersad, parliamentary secretary Hansen Narinesingh, and THA Secretary Petal Ann Roberts. The initiative, known as the Tobago Training Needs Assessment project, is set to conclude by October and is designed to identify skill gaps, prioritize economic sectors, and align training programs with labor market demands. Narinesingh emphasized the project’s importance in addressing the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and shifting global labor markets. He highlighted the need for purposeful skills, adaptability, and innovation to ensure Tobago’s workforce remains competitive. Roberts underscored the initiative’s role in preparing Tobagonians for future job markets, aligning training with economic opportunities, and fostering equitable development across Trinidad and Tobago. Supersad described the assessment as timely, stressing its potential to create responsive training programs and national occupational standards tailored to Tobago’s needs. The project aims to empower Tobagonians, particularly youth, by connecting them to meaningful training and real-world opportunities, ultimately driving economic growth and development on the island.
分类： society
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Sykes commends court staff’s dedication amid Hurricane Melissa devastation
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Chief Justice Bryan Sykes has lauded court staff and managers across multiple parishes for their unwavering dedication and resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused extensive damage to judicial facilities. During his visits to the Santa Cruz courthouse in St Elizabeth and other severely affected areas, including St James, Trelawny, and Hanover, Justice Sykes expressed his admiration for the commitment of court personnel who continue to report for duty despite personal hardships. He described the scenes of devastation as ‘distressing’ but emphasized the inspiring leadership and proactive efforts of senior judges and court operations managers. ‘What I am particularly pleased about is that in all the parishes, the senior judges and court operations managers have stepped up as leaders, which is what we expect of them,’ he remarked. ‘They have been strategizing on how to restore services, highlighting the importance of planning and risk mitigation.’ In parishes like Hanover and St James, staff have been actively cleaning up and preparing to reopen facilities. However, in St Elizabeth, the destruction was so severe that ‘there’s nowhere to clean up,’ Sykes noted. Despite losing homes and roofs, many staff members remain committed to their duties. Sykes called for collaboration among stakeholders to support the recovery of the justice system. His visits underscored the critical need for leadership training and disaster preparedness within the judiciary, as staff continue to demonstrate courage and service under challenging conditions. Justice Sykes is scheduled to visit the Westmoreland Parish Court next.
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Ministry intervenes after Barataria North Sec brawl
In the wake of a violent altercation on November 4 involving male and female students outside Barataria North Secondary School, the Education Ministry has swiftly responded by bolstering security measures. Education Minister Michael Dowlath announced on November 6 that additional police patrols have been arranged for several priority schools, including Barataria North Secondary, to ensure student safety. The ministry expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing its commitment to addressing indiscipline and disruptive behavior within educational institutions. The school, which had previously been selected for on-campus police presence, is now under heightened scrutiny. The ministry has mobilized various units, such as the School Supervision Division and the Student Support Services Division (SSSD), to implement interventions aimed at fostering a safe and conducive learning environment. An ongoing investigation into the brawl is being conducted, with the ministry advocating for a ‘whole-of-community approach’ to student discipline. This includes engaging parents, guardians, and other stakeholders to reinforce behavioral support systems and encourage positive student engagement. The school’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA) has urged students with relevant information to report it to trusted staff members and reminded them of their responsibility to uphold the school’s reputation. The PTA also cautioned against sharing or posting recordings of such incidents on social media, stressing the importance of handling evidence responsibly.
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Sagicor commits J$200 million to support Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to aid communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa, Sagicor Group Jamaica, through its philanthropic arm, the Sagicor Foundation, has pledged approximately J$200 million in relief funding. This comprehensive support package includes J$40 million allocated specifically for Sagicor employees affected by the storm. To date, 224 employees residing in the hardest-hit parishes have been identified for targeted assistance. As part of its immediate response, the company has distributed “family boxes” to over 670 individuals, including team members and their families, across 48 communities in five parishes. Volunteers from Sagicor’s subsidiaries were mobilized to assist with the packaging and distribution of these essential supplies. Additionally, the company is offering grants for immediate needs and interest-free loans to support long-term rebuilding efforts for affected employees. These local initiatives are bolstered by Sagicor Financial Company (SFC), the group’s parent company, which has pledged matching donations from employees in other Sagicor territories to aid long-term recovery. Sagicor is also exploring further ways to assist clients severely impacted by the hurricane, helping them regain stability and normalcy during this challenging period. Christopher Zacca, President and CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica and Chairman of the Sagicor Foundation, personally visited Black River, St Elizabeth, to oversee relief distribution and assess the damage. “The devastation in Black River is heartbreaking, and we are committed to supporting our team members, clients, and the broader community in rebuilding their lives,” Zacca stated. He emphasized Sagicor’s long-standing commitment to Jamaica, reaffirming the company’s dedication to recovery efforts. The Sagicor Foundation will continue to coordinate relief initiatives as recovery progresses across the island.
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Murder accused at Teteron Barracks complains of inhumane detention
A remand prisoner held at the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force’s (TTDF) Teteron Barracks in Chaguaramas has filed a writ of habeas corpus, alleging his detention is unlawful and inhumane. The individual, facing multiple murder and firearm charges, is seeking justification for his continued confinement at the military facility. The case is set to be heard next week before Justice Carol Gobin. Teteron Barracks was designated as a prison in July 2025 under a state of emergency to house high-risk inmates transferred from the Maximum Security Prison in Arouca. However, not all detainees are held under Preventative Detention Orders (PDOs). The prisoner claims he was forcibly removed from the Port of Spain Prison on August 20 by masked officers, blindfolded, zip-tied, and transported to Teteron without a detention order. Initially, the Commissioner of Prisons stated he was held under a PDO, but this was later retracted, with the State confirming no such order exists. The inmate’s affidavit details harsh conditions at Teteron, including confinement in a small, poorly ventilated cell, limited access to water and sanitation, and inadequate food for his lactose intolerance. He also alleges restricted access to legal counsel and family visits, with virtual meetings monitored by prison staff. The prisoner, awaiting trial for multiple murders, claims his mental health has deteriorated and fears his detention could prejudice his upcoming trials. He is represented by a legal team including Ravi Rajcoomar, SC, Ryan Rajcoomar, Alejandro Gocking, and Enrique Singh. The Ministry of Homeland Security has denied complaints about conditions at Teteron, stating that refurbished cells include bunks, bathrooms, and ventilation, with inmates having access to daily medical services, meals, and water.
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Freak storm causes anxiety in several St James communities
Residents of St James, Jamaica, were left in a state of alarm on Friday afternoon as powerful winds swept through several communities, evoking memories of past severe weather events. South St James bore the brunt of the phenomenon, with locals describing the experience as both sudden and unsettling. Marcia Anderson, a resident of the Tangle River community, recounted the moment the winds began to howl. “We saw trees and bamboo swaying violently, and leaves flying everywhere, but it stopped shortly after,” she told Observer Online. Anderson also noted the eerie change in the atmosphere, saying, “The place turned white as if heavy rain was imminent, but it never came.” Her concerns were heightened by a call from a relative overseas who had warned of a potential weather system that might impact the region. “I thought this was it,” she admitted, though the winds subsided quickly. Another resident from the Meadows of Irwin community, who chose to remain anonymous, described the event as deeply traumatic. “I nearly had a panic attack,” she said, drawing parallels to the destructive Hurricane Melissa. She reported sustained showers accompanying the winds, which soaked her patio and caused water to seep through her bedroom window. “It felt like it lasted 20 minutes,” she added, emphasizing the intensity of the experience. While the winds eventually died down, the incident left many residents on edge, reminding them of the vulnerability of their communities to sudden weather changes.
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Family of slain granny, 75, wants closure
As the fifth anniversary of Daiyke “Meera” Mongroo’s tragic murder approaches on November 11, her family continues to seek justice and closure. The 75-year-old grandmother was found brutally murdered in her home at Papourie Road, Diamond Village, San Fernando, on November 11, 2020. Her husband, Ramjewan Mongroo, discovered her lifeless body upon returning from errands. An autopsy revealed she had been beaten, bound, and strangled. Relatives remember her as a caring, loving, and humorous woman who was full of life. Despite ongoing investigations by the Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, no arrests have been made. The family remains hopeful for justice, but the wait has been agonizing. Adding to their grief, the widower’s brother and sister-in-law passed away earlier this year within a month of each other due to natural causes. The family continues to support one another, clinging to hope and prayers for a resolution.
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Small businesses to be supported in recovery efforts, says Seiveright
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on Jamaica, the government has initiated a robust, multi-pronged response to aid micro and small businesses in their recovery efforts. Delano Seiveright, Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC), underscored the urgency of the situation, describing it as ‘Herculean and multifaceted.’ He revealed that Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness and Senator Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, have already issued directives and convened strategic meetings to expedite the revival of small enterprises.
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Cabinet Reviews Enforcement of Rent Restriction Act Amid Rising Complaints
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda is currently examining the enforcement of the Rent Restriction Act in response to escalating public concerns over soaring rental prices and unregulated evictions. During Thursday’s post-Cabinet press briefing, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that while existing laws are designed to safeguard tenants, there is a pressing need for more robust enforcement. ‘The laws are in place,’ Merchant stated. ‘However, it’s a matter of ensuring they are effectively enforced and that individuals utilize these legal provisions to address their grievances.’
Merchant urged tenants who feel unjustly treated to pursue legal recourse through the judicial system. ‘If you believe you’ve been wronged, take your case to the courts. The judiciary is equipped to handle such matters, as there are established regulations that can be enforced,’ he advised. When questioned about the operational status of the Rent Commission—a body mandated by law to oversee the rental sector—Merchant acknowledged the need for further investigation. ‘I will look into this and provide updates in future briefings,’ he assured.
The Cabinet’s review of the Rent Restriction Act coincides with a broader public discourse on housing affordability and tenant rights protection. As rental costs continue to climb, the government faces mounting pressure to address these issues and ensure equitable housing practices across the nation.
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UPP ‘Beach Case’ Adjourned Again
The high-profile legal matter known as ‘the Beach Case’ has been postponed once more following a hearing at the St John’s Magistrate’s Court. Defence attorney Mr. Boing raised significant concerns regarding what he termed ‘certain defects’ in the case file. Despite these objections, the magistrate opted to proceed with witness testimonies before addressing the alleged issues. Mr. Boing stated, ‘I highlighted specific flaws in the file, but the magistrate believes the witnesses’ accounts might resolve these concerns. A ruling on my submission will only occur after the evidence is heard.’ The case has now been adjourned until December 12, 2025, when the prosecution, led by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, is expected to present its witnesses and evidence. Outside the courtroom, political commentator George Wehner, who has been closely monitoring the case, voiced frustration over the repeated delays. Wehner also drew attention to broader systemic issues, referencing the Small Charges Act—a colonial-era law originally intended to control emancipated Africans post-slavery. ‘These laws criminalized everyday actions, such as walking on a neighbor’s land or picketing,’ he remarked. ‘Even after independence, they continue to oppress the same communities they were designed to target.’ The Beach Case, named for its alleged connection to an incident on a local beach, has garnered significant public attention, with advocates for the defendants demanding transparency and fairness in the judicial process. The next hearing is set for December 12, 2025, when witnesses are expected to testify.