Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Minister, Dr. Roodal Moonilal, has announced a significant uptick in the nation’s oil and gas production, attributing the growth to renewed investor confidence and the return of ExxonMobil after a 22-year absence. Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce TT’s Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) Conference in Port of Spain on November 11, Moonilal revealed a 5.5% increase in oil output, rising from 52,357 barrels per day in April to 55,271 barrels per day in October. Natural gas production also saw a boost, climbing from 2.41 to 2.63 billion cubic feet per day between April and June. Moonilal emphasized that the new UNC administration’s aggressive policy interventions and expedited negotiations have revitalized exploration activities and restored investor trust. He highlighted ExxonMobil’s return as a pivotal moment, describing it as achieving ‘the gold standard for the pace of negotiations.’ The minister also noted the potential for over $20 billion in investment from ExxonMobil’s ultra-deepwater campaign in the Eastern Tobago Basin, targeting depths exceeding 2,000 metres. Despite these advancements, production levels remain below historical highs, with sustained growth dependent on new exploration projects, regulatory stability, and market conditions. Moonilal expressed optimism, stating, ‘We are bringing change with optimism and hope. And with that optimism will come results.’ Additionally, he mentioned progress in talks with Shell on the Manatee Plus project and securing a new U.S. licence to advance work on Venezuela’s Dragon gas field, despite recent tensions with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
博客
-
BPL send seven-man team to help restore power in Jamaica
A seven-member team from Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) has embarked on a critical mission to Jamaica to aid in the restoration of electricity in communities ravaged by Hurricane Melissa. This initiative is part of the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation’s (CARILEC) regional disaster response program, which mobilizes resources from member utilities to assist nations impacted by severe storms. The BPL delegation, comprising linemen, engineers, and technicians, will collaborate with the Jamaica Public Service Company to rebuild power lines and restore essential services in the hardest-hit areas. BPL Chief Operating Officer Anthony Christie emphasized the importance of regional solidarity during crises, stating, ‘We understand the challenges they face and are committed to supporting their recovery efforts.’ Assistant Engineer Kervin Jones, leading the team, expressed his pride in representing The Bahamas, while Foreman Paul Curry highlighted the significance of the mission despite the personal sacrifices involved. Lineman Dremeko Cooper, drawing from his previous experience in Dominica, acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic. The BPL team is expected to remain in Jamaica for several weeks, contributing to the broader regional recovery effort coordinated by CARILEC.
-
Hurricane Melissa death toll in Jamaica rises to 45
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has confirmed that the death toll from Hurricane Melissa has risen to 45, marking a devastating impact on the island nation. Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, disclosed the updated figures during a press conference on Tuesday morning. She emphasized that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) had thoroughly investigated and verified the fatalities as directly linked to the hurricane. The southwestern parish of St. Elizabeth bore the brunt of the disaster, accounting for 18 deaths, followed by Westmoreland with 15 fatalities. Other affected areas include St. James (6), Hanover (2), Trelawny (2), St. Ann (1), and Portland (1). Dr. Morris Dixon revealed that 33 post-mortem examinations have been completed, with additional autopsies pending. Expressing profound sorrow, she extended prayers to the grieving families, stating, ‘Those are 45 families that are hurting deeply. As we look at that number, we pray for those families and that God will comfort them.’
-
Hands in Unison donates over 250 care packages to hurricane-hit Trelawny communities
In a significant humanitarian effort, over 250 care packages were delivered to residents of the Martha Brae and Zion communities, as well as individuals at a shelter in Holland, Trelawny, Jamaica. This initiative was spearheaded by Hands in Unison, a local Christian-based humanitarian organization, as part of their ongoing relief efforts for families impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The packages included essential items such as food, water, and toiletries, providing much-needed support to those affected by the disaster. The project was led by CEO Ruth-Ann Pinnock and Projects Director Lorene Pinnock, aligning with the organization’s annual programs, including the ‘Dare to Care’ and Christmas gift initiatives. Lorene Pinnock emphasized the organization’s commitment to expanding their efforts, stating, ‘For Melissa relief, we aim to distribute 200 to 300 care packages and undertake roof repair projects in every parish we serve.’ Hands in Unison has pledged to complete 45 roof projects nationwide to help families rebuild stronger homes. The organization’s guiding principle, ‘Together We Can,’ underscores their collaborative approach, bringing together volunteers, corporate partners, and other organizations to create meaningful change. Ruth-Ann Pinnock expressed deep gratitude to the organization’s supporters for enabling the Trelawny outreach. The initiative not only provided immediate relief but also symbolized hope and resilience for the affected communities.
-
Kiprich freed as prosecutors drop case over alleged One Order endorsement
Dancehall artist Kiprich, whose real name is Marlon Plunkett, has been exonerated after the prosecution withdrew criminal charges against him in the St. Catherine Parish Court on Tuesday. The case, which had drawn significant attention, was dismissed following concerns raised by the defense regarding the nature of the charges and constitutional issues. Defense attorney Patrick Peterkin expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the prosecution failed to meet the evidentiary threshold required to proceed. Kiprich had been charged under section 18A of the Offences Against the Person Act, which pertains to the use of audio, visual, or audiovisual communication to promote criminal activity. Throughout the legal proceedings, Plunkett steadfastly maintained his innocence, denying any involvement in gang-related activities or incitement of violence. Peterkin highlighted the broader implications of the case, warning that such laws could unjustly burden artists who are merely performing their craft. The charges stemmed from a custom-order dubplate created for a foreign-based selector following the death of Othniel ‘Thickman’ Lobban, a notorious gang leader. Kiprich’s management team claimed the audio was manipulated to appear more inflammatory than intended. Lobban, a key figure in Jamaica’s criminal underworld, was allegedly involved in shootings, extortion, and gang dominance in various areas before being killed in a shootout with police earlier this year.
-
Pennywise to retail ZO Skin Health range
Pennywise Cosmetics Ltd, a leading health and beauty retail chain in the Caribbean, has been granted exclusive commercial rights to distribute the ZO Skin Health line of medical-grade skincare products in Trinidad and Tobago. This decision follows a resolution of a legal dispute between Pennywise and the Maraval-based Skin Health Institute (SHI), led by dermatologist Dr. Rachel Eckel. The SHI had previously obtained a High Court injunction in April 2024, preventing Pennywise from selling ZO Skin Health products in its ten local outlets, arguing that the products should only be sold under medical supervision. Pennywise contested the injunction, asserting that it had legally imported genuine products and offered them at competitive prices. After months of negotiations, both parties reached a settlement, allowing Pennywise to become the exclusive authorized retailer. Justice Joan Charles had initially ruled in favor of SHI, stating that Pennywise’s marketing practices created a false impression of an exclusive partnership with SHI, potentially misleading customers. Despite allegations of unfair competition and “passing off” by SHI, Eckel, and Dermedica Medical Ltd., Pennywise maintained its innocence, emphasizing its commitment to honest business practices. The settlement marks a significant milestone for Pennywise, reinforcing its position in the Caribbean’s health and beauty market. ZO Skin Health products, developed by renowned dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi, are now set to reach a broader audience through Pennywise’s extensive retail network.
-
Alexander mum on SoE review tribunal recommendations
Six reports from the State of Emergency Review Tribunal have been submitted to Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, yet it remains unclear whether detainees have been informed of the tribunal’s findings. The reports, delivered on September 12, 19, and 28, and October 6, 9, and 22, contain recommendations on whether detainees, including prisons supervisor Garth Guada, should remain in custody. Despite repeated inquiries sent to Alexander on November 10 and 11, neither the minister, the ministry’s permanent secretary, nor its corporate communications unit have responded. Guada’s attorneys also remain silent, while attorney Darren Mitchell, representing six detainees, confirmed his clients have not received any updates. The tribunal’s secretary, however, indicated that reports for three of Mitchell’s clients were sent to the minister. Under regulations gazetted on July 18, the tribunal is tasked with assessing whether sufficient cause exists for detention and may recommend its continuation or termination. Detainees are entitled to receive the tribunal’s conclusions, though the full report remains confidential unless the minister authorizes its disclosure. The minister retains sole discretion to act on the tribunal’s recommendations, as its findings are not binding. A 2024 Court of Appeal ruling emphasized that detainees must be informed of the grounds for their detention and that ministerial decisions are subject to judicial review. The tribunal recently defended its role, stating it operates within the Emergency Powers Regulations 2025, which limit its function to reviewing detentions and reporting to the minister. Critics, including attorneys, have accused the police of using preventative detention orders (PDOs) as a substitute for proper investigations. The government extended the state of emergency for a second three-month period on October 31, with 98 of 156 PDOs executed so far.
-
Redefining justice with prison plan
The Port of Spain Prison has long been labeled as a ‘university of crime,’ but a groundbreaking new initiative seeks to redefine its role in society. The recently unveiled prison plan envisions transforming correctional facilities into campuses for human development, where inmates can access rehabilitative and restorative programs. This transformative approach aims to reduce recidivism, lower prison populations, and foster societal reintegration. Central to this plan is the empowerment of prison officers, who will evolve into professional human development agents, gaining greater respect and job satisfaction in their roles. The initiative emphasizes maintaining family ties, equipping inmates with income-earning skills, and facilitating job placements post-release. Education, school policing, and efforts to curb narco-trafficking are also prioritized to redirect young people away from illegal activities and into legal networks. Drawing inspiration from the Abdullah Report (1980) and the Penal Reform and Prison Transformation Reports in Trinidad and Tobago (2003), this project aspires to redefine justice based on the lived experiences of those most affected by the system. Catherine Ali, in her letter to the editor, highlights the potential for this initiative to create a ripple effect across the Caribbean, the Commonwealth, and globally. Thousands eagerly anticipate the launch of this creative justice project, which could mark a historic first in defining justice from the perspective of the marginalized.
-
Lessons from the New Deal, Singapore, Dubai
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar recently unveiled the TT Revitalisation Blueprint, a comprehensive plan aimed at reshaping Trinidad and Tobago’s economy and physical infrastructure. Launched at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s on November 6, this initiative draws inspiration from globally successful models such as America’s New Deal, Singapore’s urban transformation, and Dubai’s rapid development. The blueprint outlines over 100 major projects targeting job creation, urban renewal, and sustainable development, with a focus on diversifying the economy beyond energy into construction, tourism, digital transformation, and manufacturing. The government envisions this plan as a catalyst for economic recovery, aiming to create over 50,000 jobs and attract private sector investment. Key projects include the San Fernando Waterfront Redevelopment and the Port of Spain Invaders Bay development, which mirror Dubai’s emphasis on tourism and urban design, as well as industrial renewal zones inspired by Singapore’s economic clustering. While the blueprint has been praised for its bold vision, its success will hinge on effective execution, strong governance, and long-term planning. If implemented successfully, it could position Trinidad and Tobago as a global example of infrastructure-driven economic transformation.
-
Dream big with ‘one percenters’
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has unveiled the government’s Revitalisation Blueprint, a comprehensive and actionable strategy aimed at redefining Trinidad and Tobago’s economic landscape. Unlike previous plans that often lacked substance, this blueprint is rooted in economic logic and structured ambition, offering a clear pathway for sustainable growth. The initiative has garnered significant support from key business leaders, including A. Norman Sabga, Executive Chairman of ANSA McAL, who emphasized the importance of dreaming big to achieve national progress. Sabga’s endorsement underscores the critical role of the private sector in driving innovation, employment, and investment confidence. The blueprint is not just a government-led effort but a call for national collaboration, where policy stability and infrastructure from the government meet the capital, innovation, and operational excellence of businesses. This initiative is designed to benefit not only large corporations but also small and medium enterprises, creative entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. With ANSA McAL, a symbol of stability and regional success, leading the charge, the blueprint is poised to inspire broader economic momentum. The plan highlights the collective responsibility of citizens, companies, and leaders in building a stronger Trinidad and Tobago, emphasizing that economic transformation is a shared endeavor. As Sabga aptly stated, ‘We need to dream big, manage the details, and move the country forward.’