Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Watts meets off-spinner Karishma Ramharack to advance women’s cricket

    Watts meets off-spinner Karishma Ramharack to advance women’s cricket

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s sporting landscape, Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts convened a strategic meeting with national women’s cricket team captain Karishma Ramharack on December 11. The high-level discussion, attended by the ministry’s permanent secretary Penelope Bradshaw-Niles and Ramharack’s sister Mariah (a prominent broadcaster), focused on comprehensive plans to advance women’s cricket infrastructure and opportunities across the nation.

    The 30-year-old cricket standout, recently honored as TTCB’s Female International Cricketer of the Year in October, brings impressive credentials to the conversation. Ramharack led Trinidad and Tobago’s women’s squad to a silver-medal performance at the recent Bolivarian Games in Peru, where the team dominated the round-robin stage with four consecutive victories before falling to Jamaica in the December 7 championship match.

    According to official communications from the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, the dialogue centered on creating sustainable pathways for emerging female athletes, strengthening support systems, and expanding national representation opportunities. The ministry’s social media channels characterized the meeting as part of ongoing efforts to ‘elevate women’s cricket in TT’ through structural enhancements and developmental initiatives.

    Ramharack responded to the ministerial engagement through her social media platform with a succinct yet powerful statement: ‘No words…just actions. Pleasure to meet the Minister of Sports!’ This encounter marks a notable collaboration between athletic leadership and government officials aimed at transforming the future of women’s cricket in the Caribbean nation.

  • NUGFW seeks early meeting with CPO

    NUGFW seeks early meeting with CPO

    The National Union of Government and Federated Workers (NUGFW) has formally initiated steps to secure a substantial wage adjustment for Trinidad and Tobago’s daily-paid public sector employees. Union leadership is pushing for immediate negotiations with government officials to achieve a ten per cent salary increase for this vulnerable workforce segment.

    NUGFW President-General Christopher Streete announced the union’s strategy through a social media address on December 13, revealing that formal correspondence had been dispatched to Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo. The communication specifically requests an early January meeting with Chief Personnel Officer Lt Cmdr Dr Daryl Dindial, who operates under the Finance Minister’s directives.

    Mr. Streete expressed measured optimism regarding the proposed dialogue, emphasizing the union’s commitment to rapid resolution. “We are pursuing an early settlement,” he stated, “and upon successful negotiation, our members will become entitled to retroactive compensation.”

    The NUGFW represents daily-wage employees across multiple critical public institutions, including the Tobago House of Assembly, regional health authorities, and twelve of fourteen municipal corporations throughout Trinidad (excluding only San Fernando and Port of Spain city corporations). Streete highlighted that these workers rank among the nation’s lowest-paid laborers and have compelling economic justification for enhanced compensation.

    The union leader simultaneously issued a caution against misinformation circulating among workers, noting, “Certain disruptive elements are attempting to mislead membership regarding negotiation proceedings. Our exclusive focus remains on delivering concrete results.”

    Streete offered pragmatic financial advice to members, reminding them that “monetary compensation carries no expiration date” and urging prudent management of anticipated back payments. The union’s current position follows their previous rejection of a four per cent increase proposed under the former administration, a decision Streete believes will yield superior outcomes for workers.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of recent successful negotiations between the Public Services Association and government representatives, which resulted in a ten per cent wage increase covering 2014-2019 with implementation beginning January 2026 and partial retroactive payments expected before Christmas.

  • Coach Angus Eve: ‘Naps’ players were selfless during football season

    Coach Angus Eve: ‘Naps’ players were selfless during football season

    Naparima College has etched its name in Trinidad and Tobago football history by capturing an unprecedented triple crown of Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) titles, culminating in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Signal Hill Secondary in the Coca-Cola National Intercol final on December 10.

    Under the strategic guidance of coach Angus Eve, the team completed a remarkable clean sweep of the 2025 season by adding the national title to their premiership and south zone Intercol trophies. The decisive moment came in the 22nd minute when Signal Hill goalkeeper Kaleb Romeo’s uncharacteristic error resulted in an own goal that ultimately separated the sides at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.

    Eve, a former national team standout who returned to Naparima’s dugout at the season’s commencement, attributed the success to collective discipline and tactical execution. “They didn’t care what starting lineup we did, or what players we put in, they were all consistent throughout the season,” Eve remarked during post-match celebrations. “Sticking to the game plan was key. We wanted to play good and attractive football for the fans.”

    The final tested Naparima’s resilience as Signal Hill employed a defensive approach that frustrated the home side for large periods. Despite creating numerous opportunities, Naparima struggled to break through until Romeo’s misfortune. The team’s defensive unit, anchored by goalkeeper Mikhail Clement, maintained composure during Signal Hill’s late surge to preserve the narrow advantage.

    This triumph marks Naparima’s fourth triple-crown achievement, having previously accomplished the feat in 1999, 2015, and 2018—the latter two under Eve’s leadership. The coach emphasized that beyond the silverware, the victory represents the culmination of a philosophy centered on player development and institutional loyalty.

    Midfielder Jacob O’Reilly earned man-of-the-match honors for his instrumental role in linking defense and attack, embodying the team’s work ethic and tactical understanding. The post-match celebrations saw players join the school band in jubilation, waving flags and lifting the National Intercol trophy—a fitting conclusion to a season defined by vision and unwavering dedication.

  • TSTT-CWU affinity plan offers big savings to members

    TSTT-CWU affinity plan offers big savings to members

    In a significant development for telecommunications in Trinidad and Tobago, Telecommunications Services of TT (TSTT) has introduced a specialized affinity program offering substantial savings of up to 24% for Communications Workers’ Union (CWU) members, both active and retired. The initiative, unveiled on December 8 at TSTT House in Port of Spain, symbolizes a revitalized collaborative relationship between the company and the union.

    The program, developed through close coordination between TSTT’s Business and Consumer Sales team led by Vice President Reyanne Sobers and CWU leadership, provides the most competitive market rates for bundled telecommunications services. These comprehensive packages encompass mobile connectivity, internet access, TV/landline services, and home security solutions.

    Speaking at the launch ceremony, TSTT’s Acting CEO Keino Cox emphasized that the initiative transcends conventional commercial offerings. “This affinity plan represents a tangible expression of gratitude,” Cox stated. “It acknowledges the dedicated individuals who maintain our nation’s communications infrastructure—from those climbing poles and monitoring systems to customer service representatives and technology installers, including our valued retirees.”

    CWU Secretary General Joanne Oyleer echoed this sentiment, describing the event as “a proud moment” for stakeholder collaboration. She particularly highlighted the symbolic theme ‘Union Connected by TSTT’ and noted the absence of corporate pushback as evidence of the positive trajectory in labor-management relations.

    The affinity program forms an integral component of TSTT’s broader corporate transformation strategy, which aims to transition from traditional telecommunications provider to a high-performance technology company while keeping both current and former employees central to this evolution.

    TSTT Chairman Kern Dass reinforced this commitment, stating: “This initiative ensures that CWU members directly benefit from our business progress, delivering real value to the homes and lives of those who have built and continue to sustain our organization.”

    The plan is now available to all eligible union members and retirees, marking a new chapter of cooperation built on mutual respect and shared purpose between the telecommunications provider and the workers’ union.

  • Brendan Boodoo hits ton, but Strikers fall to Warriors in TTCB Under-23 Cup

    Brendan Boodoo hits ton, but Strikers fall to Warriors in TTCB Under-23 Cup

    In a dramatic TTCB Under-23 Cup semi-final clash at the National Cricket Centre in Balmain, Couva on December 10, Cocrico Warriors secured a hard-fought 14-run victory against Soca Strikers Under-19s in a high-scoring encounter that showcased exceptional individual performances despite the rainy conditions.

    The Warriors, sent to bat first, posted an imposing total of 298 runs in 45.2 overs, setting a challenging target for their youthful opponents. The innings featured substantial contributions from multiple batsmen, with Khaleem Mohammed’s explosive 77 from just 58 deliveries providing early momentum. He was well supported by Olando James (63 off 65) and wicket-keeper Gerard Chin, who scored a steady 54 from 65 balls.

    West Indies Under-19 allrounder Brendan Boodoo emerged as the standout performer for the Strikers, delivering an exceptional all-round display. The talented youngster claimed three crucial wickets for 71 runs during his ten-over spell, including key breakthroughs that temporarily halted the Warriors’ scoring momentum. Aarion Mohammed complemented these efforts with impressive death bowling figures of 3/43.

    During the chase, the Strikers faced immediate adversity when opening batsman Levi Ghany was dismissed by a perfect yorker from Joshua James on the very first ball of the innings. Captain Saleem Khan followed shortly after, leaving the team struggling at 12/2.

    Boodoo then orchestrated a remarkable recovery, crafting a magnificent century that kept his team’s hopes alive. His 112-run masterpiece from 101 deliveries featured powerful stroke play and intelligent running between wickets. He found able partners in Aadi Ramsaran (59 off 82) and Christian Lall (59 off 52), building partnerships of 114 and 102 runs respectively that brought the Strikers within reach of victory.

    The match reached its critical juncture when Boodoo was finally dismissed in the 40th over with the score at 239/4, requiring 60 runs from the remaining 63 deliveries. Leg-spinner Aneal Rooplal (3/52) then triggered a dramatic collapse, taking two quick wickets in consecutive overs. Joshua James sealed the victory with a devastating double-wicket maiden in the 45th over, finishing with impressive figures of 4/73.

    The Warriors will now advance to face Steelpan Titans in the tournament final scheduled for December 13 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.

  • HDC faces $113k lawsuit over unpaid janitorial services

    HDC faces $113k lawsuit over unpaid janitorial services

    A contractual dispute between Trinidad’s Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and one of its service providers has escalated into a legal standoff, with the cleaning company firmly rejecting the state agency’s request for additional time to address outstanding payments totaling $113,424.

    Businessman Alick Anthony Charles, proprietor of Dirt B Gone Janitorial & Maintenance Services Ltd, has through his legal representative refused HDC’s plea for a one-month extension to respond to a pre-action protocol letter. The company had been contracted to provide comprehensive waste management services at Ridgewood Gardens, Phase Two housing development in Golconda.

    According to legal documents obtained, attorney Kenneth Bradshaw of Bradshaw & Bradshaw Legal Solutions formally communicated his client’s position to both the permanent secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Ministry and HDC’s managing director on December 9. The correspondence emphasized that despite complete fulfillment of contractual obligations and proper submission of invoices, HDC has failed to remit payments for services rendered during March, June, July, August, September, and November.

    HDC’s December 5 response, which acknowledged the matter was under review by its legal department, sought a 30-day grace period for investigation. This request was met with firm opposition from Charles’ legal team, who cited ‘prolonged, unreasonable delay in breach of contract’ that has already caused significant operational and personal hardship.

    The attorney challenged the validity of HDC’s investigation rationale, characterizing it as ‘unparticularised, unsupported’ and potentially indicative of a stalling tactic. Legal representatives noted that all services had been verified on-site and approved through HDC’s internal payment channels, leaving no legitimate basis for further delay.

    In a final compromise, Charles’ legal team has offered a seven-day ultimatum for full settlement of the $113,424 debt, plus accrued interest and $3,500 in legal costs. Failure to comply will trigger immediate legal proceedings for debt recovery, damages for breach of contract, and escalation to the Office of the Procurement Regulator for investigation under public procurement legislation.

    The case highlights ongoing challenges in government procurement processes and the impact of payment delays on small businesses operating in the public sector supply chain.

  • Trinidad and Tobago’s Emma Garcia swings to perfect 10 on uneven bars at Carifta Gymnastics

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Emma Garcia swings to perfect 10 on uneven bars at Carifta Gymnastics

    Trinidad and Tobago delivered an extraordinary performance at the 2025 Carifta Artistic Gymnastics Championships, held December 4-5 at the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva. The host nation’s gymnasts captured an astonishing 168 medals (85 gold, 57 silver, 26 bronze), decisively outperforming competitors from Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, and Jamaica to retain their overall championship title.

    The competition’s most historic moment came when Trinidad and Tobago’s Emma Garcia achieved perfection on the uneven bars, earning the only perfect 10.000 score awarded throughout the entire championships. Her flawless execution generated widespread celebration among athletes, officials, and spectators, creating one of the most memorable highlights of the two-day event.

    Featuring 195 female gymnasts aged 7-19, the championships showcased routines across multiple competitive tiers: USA Gymnastics (USAG) developmental programs levels 1-10, Pan American Gymnastics Union (PAGU) levels 1-3, and FIG junior and senior elite divisions.

    Trinidad and Tobago established immediate dominance by sweeping all-around titles across nearly every level. In early USAG divisions, Reyelle Joseph (level 1, 7-8), Skylar Malchan (level 2, 7-8), and Andaya Singh (level 2, 9-10) claimed victories. The success continued with Ricquel Marcellin (level 3, 7-9) and Larisah Nevins (level 3, 10-12).

    Middle levels saw Coniyah Jones (level 5, 7-11), Isabella Khan (level 5, 12-15), and Kaydence Fortune (level 6, 8-12) continue the gold medal streak. Higher levels featured Gabriella Christopher (level 8, 8-13), Gabrielle Webb (level 8, 14-18), Shanika Joseph (level 9, 8-13), and Sidney Charles (level 10, 14+), who reinforced her status as one of Trinidad and Tobago’s leading senior athletes.

    PAGU levels brought additional success with Zariah Gittens-Dopwell (level 1) and Yandy Stafford (level 2) capturing all-around titles. Jamaica’s Mariah Gordon (PAGU level 2) and Zuri Matandara Clark (FIG junior elite) were among the few non-TT champions, with Sidney Charles adding the FIG senior elite crown to her accomplishments.

    The event, organized by the TT Gymnastics Federation under regional Carifta coordinator Steve Butcher, received significant support from platinum sponsor Capital Markets Elite Group. This backing enabled organizers to secure international FIG and USAG-certified judges from Panama, Colombia, Canada, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica, ensuring world-class officiating throughout the championships.

  • CoP defends drug bust in swamp: I can’t leave officers to get dengue

    CoP defends drug bust in swamp: I can’t leave officers to get dengue

    Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro has publicly addressed mounting criticism regarding the absence of arrests following two major drug interdictions that netted 2.2 tonnes of marijuana valued at $171 million. The operations, which occurred on December 11, targeted drug trafficking activities in the Caroni Swamp and along South Central Road.

    Commissioner Guevarro justified the operational decisions during the inauguration of a Municipal Police Post in Port of Spain on December 12. He emphasized strategic resource allocation concerns, stating that exposing officers to extended surveillance in hazardous swamp conditions would constitute irresponsible leadership. “I would be very hard pressed to leave my officers in the bush to wait or in the swamp to wait for someone to come back and collect their 1.5 tonnes of marijuana,” Guevarro explained.

    The police chief revealed that advanced surveillance technology played a crucial role in the operations. A recently installed US military-grade radar system in Tobago provided critical intelligence that enabled the successful intercepts. According to Guevarro, the conspicuous police presence during the operations effectively disrupted the criminal network, as traffickers would have detected police movements from considerable distances and abandoned their contraband.

    Despite recovering massive drug quantities within 24 hours, Guevarro acknowledged the perception issues surrounding the lack of arrests. He maintained that the primary objective of removing dangerous drugs from circulation had been achieved, with the seized marijuana slated for destruction. The commissioner’s comments highlight the complex balance between law enforcement objectives and officer safety considerations in anti-narcotics operations.

  • Macoy releases Birds of a Feather

    Macoy releases Birds of a Feather

    Richard ‘Macoy’ Valentine, the celebrated winner of Synergy Soca Star 2009 previously known by his stage name Chynee, has announced the forthcoming release of his inaugural studio album scheduled for next year. This significant career milestone follows his recent launch of the 2026 soca single ‘Birds of a Feather’ on December 1st, a vibrant anthem promoting the celebration of life and unwavering friendship.

    Macoy’s artistic journey demonstrates strategic development through diverse collaborations and commercial adaptations. His soca parang single ‘Lopinot’ gained remarkable traction, ultimately capturing the attention of Bhagwansingh’s Hardware which transformed the composition into a commercial jingle. This corporate partnership significantly expanded his audience reach, motivating the artist to pursue similar brand collaborations for promotional opportunities.

    The Trinidadian performer emphasizes that strategic partnerships have been instrumental throughout his career evolution. He acknowledges substantial support from a local comedian who provided performance platforms within comedy events, enabling Macoy to showcase his talent to audiences across Port of Spain, San Fernando, Chaguanas and Chaguaramas throughout this year.

    His collaborative network extends to seven years of work with Chainlinxx Productions, alongside creative partnerships with graphic artist Timothy Bootan, Unique Productions, and multimedia company Akua Ltd. Macoy has consciously utilized constructive criticism to refine his artistry, focusing particularly on vocal technique enhancement as advised by his professional circle.

    Further expanding his creative scope, the artist has partnered with Black Hat Designs to promote a children’s book centered on ‘paying it forward’ principles. While currently focused on Carnival preparations, Macoy aspires to achieve the versatility of dancehall/reggae icon Busy Signal. His debut album will feature 10-15 tracks spanning soca, afrobeats, reggae and dancehall genres, including several collaborative performances.

  • New Zealand take series lead as WI batsmen crumble in 2nd Test

    New Zealand take series lead as WI batsmen crumble in 2nd Test

    In a stunning display of cricketing dominance, New Zealand secured a resounding nine-wicket victory over the West Indies on the third day of the second Test at Wellington’s Basin Reserve. The match concluded abruptly following a catastrophic batting collapse by the Caribbean side, who set a paltry victory target of just 56 runs after being dismissed for 128 in their second innings.

    The day began with West Indies resuming at 32/2, but their innings quickly unraveled against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. Pace bowler Jacob Duffy emerged as the definitive hero for the Black Caps, delivering a spectacular man-of-the-match performance with figures of 5/38. His relentless attack dismantled the West Indies’ batting lineup, including the crucial wicket of captain Roston Chase for just two runs.

    The collapse was comprehensive and swift. Brandon King (22) fell to a brilliant run-out by substitute fielder Michael Bracewell, while debutant Michael Rae (3/45) claimed Shai Hope (5) via a caught-and-bowled dismissal. Kavem Hodge, who offered brief resistance with 35 runs, was removed by a spectacular diving catch from another substitute, Will Young, at short mid-wicket.

    First-Test standout Justin Greaves (25) provided fleeting hope, but his dismissal via LBW after a review initiated by Duffy effectively ended any chance of a competitive total. The tailenders offered little resistance, with Duffy efficiently wrapping up the innings.

    Chasing a minimal target, New Zealand’s openers displayed aggressive intent. Devon Conway remained unbeaten on 28 off just 22 balls, while star batsman Kane Williamson finished 16 not out from 12 deliveries. The hosts raced to 57/1 in a mere ten overs, with Anderson Phillip claiming the sole wicket of Tom Latham (9).

    The victory gives New Zealand a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the final Test scheduled to commence at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, on December 17.