Forty-three members of Trinidad and Tobago’s Volunteer Defence Force (VDF) have initiated a constitutional motion against the State, alleging decades-long violations of their fundamental rights due to the government’s failure to provide pension and terminal benefits. The case, presided over by Justice Avason Quinlan-Williams, centers on claims that the State breached the claimants’ rights to property, legal protection, and equality under sections 4(a) and 4(b) of the Constitution. The claimants, led by Andy Greaux, argue that despite serving as permanent staff within the VDF—a recognized formation of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF)—they were denied pension deductions and superannuation benefits afforded to other TTDF members. Attorney Arden Williams, representing the claimants, emphasized that the State’s failure to enact regulations governing the VDF has left generations of servicemen without pensions or terminal benefits, despite their equivalent duties and pay structure. Williams described the omission as “irrational, arbitrary neglect,” accusing the State of failing to act on repeated representations by the claimants. The State, represented by Mary Davis, countered that the VDF members are not entitled to superannuation benefits under the Defence (Pensions, Terminal and Other Grants) Regulations, as no deductions were made from their salaries into the Consolidated Fund. The State also argued that any unequal treatment is justified by statutory and administrative distinctions. Justice Quinlan-Williams has reserved judgment, which will be delivered on January 29.
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US appeal court upholds US$131m Piarco airport judgment
The Florida Third District Court of Appeal has reaffirmed a $131 million judgment against businessman Steve Ferguson, marking the conclusion of a 19-year legal saga. Ferguson was accused of orchestrating a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme tied to the construction of Trinidad and Tobago’s Piarco International Airport. In a November 5 ruling, judges Thomas Logue, Monica Gordo, and Fleur Lobree upheld a Miami-Dade County jury’s verdict, which found Ferguson guilty of civil fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud, and violations of Florida’s Civil Remedies for Criminal Practices Act and the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). The court dismissed Ferguson’s argument that the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago failed to prove a ‘domestic injury,’ a critical requirement under federal RICO law. The judges highlighted evidence of bribes, bid manipulation, and money transfers through Miami-based companies and bank accounts, establishing Florida as a central hub for the fraudulent activities. The court also noted the use of Florida corporations to inflate bids, funnel kickbacks through Bahamian shell accounts, and purchase Miami properties for government officials involved in the conspiracy. The ruling emphasized Florida’s role as a global financial and business hub, underscoring the state’s interest in addressing criminal enterprises operating within its jurisdiction. The case, which began in 2004, saw most defendants settle or be dismissed before trial. In 2023, Ferguson and two co-defendants were found jointly liable for $32 million in damages, later tripled under Florida’s RICO provisions and increased to $131.3 million with prejudgment interest.
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Stakeholders on PM’s project-based funding: What is Tobago’s vision?
Businesswoman Diane Hadad, former chair of the Tobago branch of the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce, has praised the government’s initiative to shift towards project-based budget allocations for Tobago. This proposal, unveiled by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar during a special sitting of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) on November 4, aims to replace the current population percentage-based budgeting system with a more equitable and transparent model. However, Hadad emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive development plan for Tobago before any fiscal policy changes are implemented. Speaking to Newsday on November 5, she highlighted the island’s lack of a clear strategy for its 116 square miles, which she believes has hindered its progress. “Tobago needs to articulate its vision and goals before discussing autonomy or funding,” she stated. Hadad compared the situation to seeking a bank loan, where a solid business plan is essential to secure investment. She also criticized the past two decades of PNM-led governance, noting that Tobago’s infrastructure and human capital have not significantly improved despite budget allocations. Meanwhile, Mariano Browne, former trade minister and current CEO of the Arthur Lok Jack School of Business, cautioned that the Prime Minister’s proposal lacks detailed implementation strategies. He pointed out the nation’s strained fiscal capacity, with expenditures exceeding revenues, and questioned the feasibility of additional funding for Tobago. Browne explained that an equalization fund aims to redistribute resources to reduce regional disparities but stressed the importance of objective criteria for project selection and funding. He raised concerns about project viability, including technical, financial, operational, market, and legal considerations. While the shift to project-based budgeting is seen as a positive step, both Hadad and Browne agree that meticulous planning and transparency are crucial for Tobago’s sustainable development.
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Morris slams PM’s ‘mamagism’, Duke excited
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s inaugural address to the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) on November 4 has sparked a spectrum of reactions among stakeholders. Speaking at the Assembly Legislature in Scarborough, Tobago, the Prime Minister unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at bolstering the island’s financial autonomy and economic prospects. Key among these was the introduction of an export licence to market Tobago’s aggregate regionally, a move designed to generate foreign exchange and stimulate economic growth. Additionally, Persad-Bissessar pledged to implement a fair-share model for budgetary allocations and collaborate with the THA to establish a localised police force to address crime on the island. However, THA Minority Leader Kelvon Morris dismissed the speech as politically motivated, accusing the Prime Minister of prioritizing the upcoming THA elections over pressing issues affecting both Tobago and Trinidad. Morris criticized the lack of progress on autonomy, labeling the address as a repetition of long-standing promises. In contrast, Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) leader Watson Duke praised the initiatives, describing them as significant steps toward greater self-determination. He highlighted the potential economic benefits of the export licence and the enhanced security a localised police force could bring. The Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce also welcomed the focus on Tobago, though it emphasized the importance of effective implementation and transparency.
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OSHA: No existing regulations for LPG tanks, regulators, hoses
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.