In a landmark announcement during the 2025/2026 national budget presentation, Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister, Davendranath Tancoo, revealed the government’s plan to amend the Constitution to guarantee citizens the right to a timely trial. This initiative is part of a broader judicial reform aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the country’s legal system. A key component of this reform is the introduction of a judiciary chancellor, who will oversee caseload management, allowing the Chief Justice to concentrate on matters of jurisprudence. Tancoo emphasized that this move would address long-standing inefficiencies in the administration of justice, which he claimed were neglected under the previous government. Additionally, the government plans to expand and construct new courtrooms in Chaguanas, Rio Claro, Sangre Grande, and Diego Martin to accommodate the growing demand for judicial services. The offices of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the public defenders will also be bolstered to ensure a more robust legal framework. Tancoo concluded by asserting that these reforms would prioritize justice administration, a critical area that has historically been underfunded and mismanaged.
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Tancoo reveals $50m WASA smart-metering project
Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has unveiled a $50 million smart-metering initiative aimed at modernizing Trinidad and Tobago’s water infrastructure. The program, set to launch in the 2026 fiscal year, is part of a broader strategy to enhance revenue generation and curb water wastage. Tancoo emphasized the government’s decision to scrap the WASA transformation plan, a move that safeguards 3,700 jobs and reallocates $30 million in savings to essential services. He highlighted significant improvements in water supply, particularly in historically underserved areas like Siparia and Maracas Bay, where residents now receive water three times a week and five days a week, respectively. Additionally, a $300 million pipeline replacement program will target key mains in Port of Spain, San Fernando, and Arima. The smart-metering system, initially proposed in 2019 by former Public Utilities Minister Robert Le Hunte, aims to enhance billing accuracy and reduce water losses. Despite previous resistance, the renewed initiative reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable water management.
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State in settlement talks with ex-SSA director over dismissal
Negotiations between the state and retired Major Roger Best, former director of the Strategic Services Agency (SSA), are advancing as efforts to resolve his legal challenge over his dismissal from the elite intelligence unit intensify. Best’s legal team filed a constitutional motion on November 7, 2024, alleging violations of his rights and seeking damages for lost income and reputational harm. The case, heard by Justice Nadia Kangaloo on October 10, was expected to conclude this month. However, the judge has instead requested a filing schedule should settlement talks fail. Sources indicate the state has acknowledged the illegality of Best’s termination in a written proposal, with both parties now discussing potential compensation. Best, appointed SSA director in October 2019, claims he was dismissed without seeing any investigative report and has been unable to secure employment since. His dismissal followed a National Security Council review of a confidential Special Branch report, which led to the termination of dozens of SSA operatives between March and May 2024. Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley cited national security concerns, alleging the agency was compromised by a “religious cult” plotting to overthrow the government. Best vehemently denies these claims, stating they have irreparably damaged his reputation. Represented by attorneys Arden Williams, Mariah Ramrattan, and Don-Marie Adolphe, Best continues to seek justice for what he describes as an unjust and unlawful dismissal.
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Court grants extensions in Danny Guerra’s lawsuit against police
The constitutional case filed by businessman Danny Guerra against the police, alleging violations of his and his company’s rights, has been postponed to later this year. Both parties requested additional time to prepare written submissions, prompting Justice Frank Seepersad to grant an extension without a hearing. The case, initially scheduled for October 13, has been rescheduled to November 27. Guerra’s legal team must submit their arguments by October 31, while the state has until November 28 to respond. Any replies from Guerra’s side are due by December 19. Guerra, the owner of DG Homes Ltd, initiated the constitutional motion following a May 2024 search of his company’s Sangre Grande office. He claims that police officers, led by Sgt Rajesh Antoine of the Special Investigations Unit, denied him legal representation during the operation. In January, Justice Seepersad upheld an injunction halting further police investigations into Guerra’s business. Guerra maintains that he provided payroll records to Ministry of Labour officials, who found no wage violations, but alleges that Antoine persisted in questioning him about hiring non-citizens and demanded access to the company’s safe. Separately, on October 11, Guerra, his son, and 17 workers were charged with unlawfully processing aggregate without a license from the Ministry of Energy. Arrested during a police operation on October 9, they were released on bail and are expected to appear before an Arima magistrate on October 22.
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Labour Ministry invites jobseekers to attend job fair in Portland
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) in Jamaica has announced the St Catherine Job Fair, set to take place on Wednesday, October 29, at Celebration Church in Portmore. The event, running from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, is designed to connect jobseekers in Portmore and surrounding areas with a variety of employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including hospitality, security, finance, and customer service. Positions such as customer service representatives, baristas, chefs, security guards, accounting clerks, and restaurant managers will be available. Prominent companies like Fontana Pharmacy, Hawkeye, Centerfield Star Bucks Convenient Brands Limited (which includes Dominos and Circle K), SWAT Elite, Guardsman, Optimum, Wendy’s, KFC, Restaurants Associates Limited (including Burger King, Popeyes, and Little Caesars), and Honey Bun will be participating. Lyndon Ford, Director of the Electronic Labour Exchange (ELE), advises jobseekers to research companies of interest beforehand, dress professionally, and bring a positive attitude to enhance their chances of securing employment. Participants are encouraged to register online at lmis.gov.jm, upload their résumés, and bring essential documents such as proof of qualifications, National Insurance Scheme (NIS) card, Tax Registration Number (TRN) card, and passport-sized photographs. Walk-ins are also welcome. For further details, individuals can contact the Ministry at customerservice@mlss.gov.jm or visit mlss.gov.jm/events. This initiative underscores the MLSS’s commitment to fostering social protection and economic stability for Jamaicans by linking them with meaningful employment opportunities.
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100 Restaurant & Gaming Lounge celebrates 10th anniversary
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Celebrating a remarkable milestone, 100 Restaurant & Gaming Lounge is set to host its 10th anniversary extravaganza on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Dubbed the ’10×10 Anniversary Stage Show,’ the event will unfold at the venue’s iconic Hope Road location, in collaboration with Red Stripe. The evening promises to be a spectacular fusion of music, cuisine, and entertainment, featuring performances by Jamaican music luminaries such as Christopher Martin, Gyptian, and Agent Sasco. Beyond the live music, attendees will be treated to a culinary journey showcasing 100’s signature dishes, including jerk chicken kebabs, strawberry-glazed pork, curried goat, pastas, soups, and indulgent desserts, all crafted with the bold flavors that define the brand. The event offers two distinct experiences: VIP guests will enjoy front-stage seating, unlimited food and drinks, concierge service, premium gift bags, and dedicated parking with shuttle access, while general admission patrons will receive a complimentary welcome drink and access to food and beverage purchases throughout the night. Tassia Bernard, marketing manager at 100 Restaurant, emphasized that the celebration is a heartfelt tribute to the loyal patrons who have supported the establishment over the past decade. Since its inception in 2015, 100 Restaurant & Gaming Lounge has become a cornerstone of Kingston’s nightlife, blending food, culture, gaming, and community into a vibrant social hub.
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Tobago airport ‘fully operational’ by March 2026
The ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago is on track to become fully operational by March 2026, as announced by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo during the 2025/2026 national budget presentation. The airport, which underwent a comprehensive redevelopment and expansion project initiated in 2019, reached substantial completion in February 2025. The ‘practical opening’ of the terminal, marking the end of the construction phase, was overseen by former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley. However, operational readiness, including staff training and system testing, remains underway. Minister Tancoo emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring the airport’s full operationalization by the second quarter of fiscal 2026, moving beyond the ‘practical opening’ phase. This development is expected to bolster Tobago’s tourism sector and establish Trinidad and Tobago as a key regional air hub.
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Dominica to award highest national awards to former prime ministers
The government of Dominica announced on Monday its intention to present a parliamentary motion on Tuesday, seeking approval to posthumously award the country’s highest honor to former Prime Ministers Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas and Pierre Charles. The motion, as stated by the Office of the Prime Minister, aims to recognize the exceptional leadership and national service of both leaders, whose contributions significantly advanced Dominica’s development and inspired citizens through their commitment to social justice, education, and community empowerment.
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Hundreds of young people benefit from BRIDGE project
KINGSTON, Jamaica — On October 9, The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston hosted a graduation and close-out ceremony for the European Union (EU)-sponsored BRIDGE Project, attended by nearly 60 young participants. These graduates were among the over 300 youths who engaged in empowerment and development activities organized by the MultiCare Youth Foundation (MYF). Each received certificates and branded tokens in recognition of their accomplishments. The BRIDGE Project, an acronym for Building through Reintegration, Intervention, Development, Growth, and Education, aimed to reduce youth crime and violence by addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by at-risk youth. MYF Chairman Joseph Matalon praised the participants for their resilience and transformation, emphasizing the project’s success in creating a foundation for positive change. He highlighted the EU’s support as part of a broader partnership with Jamaica, focusing on empowering vulnerable citizens. Matalon underscored the collaborative efforts of various organizations, including Crime Stop Jamaica, the Joan Duncan Foundation, and the Department of Correctional Services, in achieving national transformation. The 34-month initiative provided layered interventions, including literacy instruction, life skills training, mentorship, and cognitive behavioral therapy, benefiting over 300 youths across five communities. Notably, 85 participants secured internships, and 50 were assisted in applying for vocational programs. The project also engaged youth through arts and videography training, fostering advocacy and positive storytelling. Additionally, over 280 school administrators and teachers participated in leadership training, while 50 community members were trained in dispute resolution techniques. MYF Administrative Manager Ann Astwood expressed gratitude to donors and sponsors, crediting their support for the project’s success. She encouraged the graduates, noting their perseverance as a testament to the program’s impact. The BRIDGE Project exemplifies the transformative power of opportunity and belief, paving the way for a brighter future for Jamaica’s youth.
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SpaceX to launch Starship test flight Monday
SpaceX is gearing up for its next test flight of the colossal Starship rocket on Monday, amidst mounting concerns over Elon Musk’s ability to deliver on NASA’s lunar projects and his ambitious Mars colonization plans. The Starship, the largest and most powerful rocket ever built, is pivotal to NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon by the mid-2020s. It is also central to Musk’s vision of establishing a human presence on Mars. While the August test flight was deemed a success, it followed a series of dramatic explosions that have cast doubt on the rocket’s reliability and timeline. NASA’s Artemis III mission, targeting a mid-2027 launch, faces potential delays, with safety advisory panels warning it could be ‘years late.’ Former NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine has expressed skepticism, stating it is ‘highly unlikely’ the U.S. will outpace China’s lunar ambitions, which aim for a crewed mission by 2030. NASA’s acting administrator, Sean Duffy, remains optimistic, asserting that the U.S. will prevail in what he calls the ‘second space race.’ The upcoming test flight, scheduled for 6:15 pm local time from SpaceX’s Texas facility, follows previous attempts that ended in explosions, including one during a ground test in June. Despite these setbacks, SpaceX achieved a milestone in August by deploying eight dummy Starlink satellites during a test flight. Musk has highlighted the development of a reusable orbital heat shield and in-orbit refueling with super-cooled propellant as critical challenges. NASA’s Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel has raised concerns about the feasibility of these technologies, with member Paul Hill noting the timeline is ‘significantly challenged.’