Trinidad and Tobago is grappling with a series of fatal LPG gas cylinder explosions, with four lives lost since April. The Occupational Health and Safety Agency (OSHA) has confirmed that there are no existing regulations or standards for the manufacture of LPG gas cylinders or the importation of regulators and hoses. This regulatory gap has led to a market flooded with varying quality and safety standards of these critical components. LPG producers have attributed the recent tragedies to faulty regulators and hoses, urging the public to use only those compliant with international safety standards. A visit to hardware stores in San Fernando revealed a wide range of regulators priced between $60 and $150, with some lacking credible safety certifications. The absence of standardized regulations has raised significant safety concerns, prompting OSHA and the TT Bureau of Standards (TTBS) to work on drafting new policies. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) has initiated measures to address the issue, including reconvening the Specifications Committee for LPG to review and update national standards. Stakeholders are expected to meet soon to discuss these developments, as public anxiety over the safety of LPG usage continues to grow.
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Amery: Government mimicking another’s foreign policy
Opposition Senator Dr. Amery Browne has sharply criticized the Trinidad and Tobago (TT) government for allegedly abandoning its long-standing foreign policy positions in favor of mimicking those of another country, widely believed to be the United States. Speaking at a briefing hosted by Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles on November 4, Browne began by referencing a UN spokesman’s condemnation of the US military’s recent destruction of several alleged drug boats, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 60 people. The UN labeled this action a violation of international human rights principles. Browne described the government’s foreign policy as ‘inauthentic and unrepresentative,’ accusing it of merely adopting narratives and talking points from external sources. He emphasized TT’s geographical proximity to Venezuela, stating that this permanent reality necessitates prudent, wise, and sustainable management of bilateral relations. Browne also questioned Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers’ recent characterization of Venezuelan ambassador Alvaro Sanchez Cordero as ‘my good friend,’ despite the government’s alleged support for regime change in Caracas. He further criticized the government for accusing the opposition of having a ‘narco agenda,’ referencing a 2013 incident where police found marijuana outside former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s residence, though no culpability was established. Browne also highlighted concerns raised by the Antilles Episcopalian Conference and the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Port of Spain regarding the US military buildup in the Caribbean and the normalization of conflict. He lamented the government’s lack of an independent foreign policy and its alleged endorsement of extrajudicial killings, including a minister’s threat to use nuclear weapons against Venezuela. Browne concluded by criticizing the government for not issuing its own statement congratulating Bolivia’s new president, instead co-signing a statement by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He warned against the dangers of war, particularly for small states like TT, and reminded leaders of the consequences faced by former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who is now before the International Criminal Court for alleged drug war-related murders.
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Windies strike first in New Zealand
In a gripping start to their five-match T20I series, the West Indies emerged victorious against New Zealand, defending a modest total of 164 to secure a seven-run win at Eden Park on Wednesday. The match, marked by intense moments and stellar performances, saw the West Indies successfully defend the lowest-ever total at the venue, thanks to a captain’s innings from Shai Hope and a brilliant all-round display by Roston Chase. New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner nearly turned the tide with a late blitz, but the West Indies held their nerve to claim the win.
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Hip Strip operators reeling from Hurricane Melissa devastation
The Montego Bay Hip Strip, a vibrant hub of Jamaican culture and entertainment along Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, has been left in ruins following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. Known for its lively atmosphere, the area is a favorite among tourists, offering family-friendly activities by day and transforming into a bustling party scene at night. However, the hurricane has disrupted this dynamic, leaving businesses and landmarks severely damaged.
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Use this opportunity to implement safe roof reconstruction
In the aftermath of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, which wreaked havoc across western Jamaica, the resilience of the affected communities has been both inspiring and concerning. Denworth Finnikin, a concerned citizen, has highlighted the immediate and long-term challenges faced by residents in areas such as St Elizabeth and Trelawny. While the spirit of the people is commendable, with many quickly repairing their homes using zinc sheets, the underlying issues of poor construction and maintenance pose a significant threat. Many homes have rotted or improperly constructed rafters and lathes, making them vulnerable to future storms. Finnikin emphasizes the need for a structured roof reconstruction program, modeled after the successful ‘Safe Roof Reconstruction’ project implemented post-Hurricane Gustav in 2010. This initiative, led by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the HEART/NSTA Trust, ensured that homes were rebuilt to withstand future storms. Finnikin proposes a similar approach for western Jamaica, focusing on site advisement, professional execution, and public education campaigns to ensure long-term safety and resilience. He urges the relevant authorities to act decisively before the next hurricane season, highlighting the opportunity to address decades of vulnerability and invest in the security of rural citizens.
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A total and complete disaster
In the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Dr. Dayton Campbell, Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Eastern, has introduced an innovative ‘adopt-a-family’ initiative to provide direct support to the most affected residents. The program aims to connect donors with families in need, ensuring both immediate relief and long-term recovery assistance.
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‘It’s going to take us years to build back’
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the parish of Westmoreland, Jamaica, has been left in a state of utter devastation, with community leaders likening the destruction to a war zone. Bishop Oneil Russell, president of the Cooke Street Benevolence Society, expressed his profound grief and concern over the extensive damage inflicted by the Category 5 hurricane, which struck on October 28. The storm ravaged communities including Cooke Street, Coke Street, Lower Darling Street, and Queen Street in Savanna-la-Mar, the parish capital.
Russell, who also serves as a justice of the peace and a minister of religion, described the scene as ‘devastating,’ with homes reduced to rubble, zinc roofs torn apart, and essential infrastructure obliterated. Despite the absence of reported fatalities, the scale of destruction has left residents grappling with the loss of homes, belongings, and basic necessities such as water, electricity, and communication.
As a trained first responder, Russell remained in the community during the storm, witnessing firsthand the ferocity of Melissa. He recounted the harrowing experience of seeing houses disintegrate and his own church, The Ark of the Covenant Apostolic Church, flattened. ‘It is going to take us years to build back,’ Russell lamented, emphasizing the urgent need for increased aid and support from government agencies and relief organizations.
Russell has been actively assisting his community by sharing his home Internet service, providing clothing, and offering financial support for food and medical needs. However, he stressed that psychological assistance is also crucial for residents traumatized by the disaster. ‘We need people like the medics in the community,’ he urged, highlighting the lack of official assessments and aid in some areas.
Tyress Small, a resident of Darling Street, shared his own harrowing tale of survival. He was forced to flee his home when the roof was torn off, braving the storm to seek shelter with a family member. Small, like many others in his community, is now homeless and reliant on external assistance to rebuild his life.
As relief efforts continue, with the United States delivering food and water to the Llandilo Community Centre, the road to recovery for Westmoreland remains long and arduous. The resilience of its residents, however, shines through as they band together to support one another in the face of unimaginable loss.
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‘Superman’ surgeon cuts path to family
In a remarkable display of determination and resilience, Dr. Joel Sugrim, a general surgeon stationed at Mandeville Regional Hospital, embarked on a grueling 24-hour journey across two parishes in Jamaica to reunite with his wife and children in Westmoreland. His odyssey began early Wednesday morning, shortly after Hurricane Melissa wreaked havoc across the island, leaving widespread destruction and disrupted communication lines.
Dr. Sugrim’s journey was fraught with challenges. His car became trapped in mud in Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth, forcing him to wield a cutlass to clear fallen trees and light posts obstructing his path. Despite these setbacks, he pressed on, driven by concern for his family, who reside in a flood-prone area and were unreachable due to downed communication services.
Along the way, Dr. Sugrim encountered a caravan of Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) vehicles and ambulances en route to evacuate patients from Black River Hospital. He joined forces with soldiers, ambulance drivers, and volunteers to clear debris and ensure the safe passage of the convoy. This collaborative effort continued through the night, with Dr. Sugrim working tirelessly despite exhaustion.
By Thursday afternoon, Dr. Sugrim resumed his journey, navigating a dirt track on Holland Estate to bypass the final stages of cleanup efforts. His unwavering determination was fueled by thoughts of his family, whom he had not been able to contact since the storm.
Dr. Sugrim’s story highlights the resilience of individuals in the face of natural disasters and the power of community collaboration in overcoming adversity. His journey serves as a testament to the lengths people will go to protect and reunite with their loved ones.
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Food Safety After the Storm
When a hurricane strikes, its impact goes beyond visible destruction, affecting health, safety, and food systems. In Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, storms like Hurricane Melissa underscore the critical need to integrate food safety and security into recovery plans. As communities rebuild, addressing these challenges becomes paramount.
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‘WE’LL WAIT’
The Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL) remains on hold indefinitely as the island continues to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The category five storm, which struck just over a week ago, caused widespread destruction, particularly in the western and southern regions of Jamaica. Montego Bay United (MBU) and Treasure Beach FC, two clubs from these areas, have been severely affected, with players and staff losing personal property, including homes, and club assets sustaining significant damage.