Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Race to intercol glory: Signal Hill plot revenge over league champs ‘Naps’

    Race to intercol glory: Signal Hill plot revenge over league champs ‘Naps’

    A highly anticipated showdown between two football powerhouses will culminate at Couva’s Ato Boldon Stadium on December 10 as Signal Hill Secondary confronts Naparima College in the 2025 Coca-Cola SSFL boys’ national intercol final. The match represents a classic underdog versus champion narrative, with Tobago’s Signal Hill attempting to replicate their 2010 triumph against the same opponents while ending a 15-year trophy drought.

    Naparima College enters the final as firm favorites, having recently secured their fifth premier division title since 2014 with a narrow 2-1 victory over Signal Hill just two weeks prior. That November 27 encounter saw Naparima establish an early 2-0 advantage through goals from Sebastian James and prolific Tobago-born striker Riquelme Phillips before weathering a spirited Signal Hill comeback.

    Signal Hill coach Downie Marcelle acknowledges the challenge ahead, stating, “We must respect Naparima’s status as the league’s best team, but simultaneously believe in our capabilities. Our players demonstrate exceptional hunger for success in this final.” Marcelle’s squad advanced to the championship match with a hard-fought 1-0 semifinal victory against St Anthony’s College, courtesy of a 76th-minute goal from substitute Siel Mills.

    The Tobago team faces potential lineup complications as Mills battles hamstring discomfort that prevented him from training on December 9. Regardless of his availability, Marcelle has prepared tactical adjustments to counter Naparima’s offensive strengths, particularly focusing on containing wingers Jayden Caprietta and Arron Raymond while limiting space for Phillips.

    Naparima manager Percy Samlalsingh recognizes the emerging rivalry between the programs, noting, “The previous encounter demonstrated minimal separation between our squads. This final will ultimately be determined by which team commits fewer errors and capitalizes on scoring opportunities.” The southern school seeks their ninth national intercol title and first since 2018, with several Upper Six players including captain Jerrel Cooper, goalkeeper Adriano Baptiste, and midfielders Xarion France and Ryan Radellant aiming to conclude their SSFL careers with championship glory.

    This senior final initiates an unprecedented trilogy of championship meetings between the institutions, as they are scheduled to compete in both under-14 and under-16 national finals within the coming week, potentially establishing a new enduring rivalry in secondary schools football.

  • Look to Guyana for feedstock to save forex

    Look to Guyana for feedstock to save forex

    A compelling public letter from Fazir Khan of St Augustine has sounded an urgent alarm regarding Trinidad and Tobago’s substantial foreign exchange expenditures on poultry feed imports, calling for strategic regional collaboration with neighboring Guyana.

    The communication highlights recent disclosures by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo revealing that poultry-sector companies accessed over US$150 million in forex reserves between 2020 and mid-2025. This staggering investment in imported feedstock represents a significant drain on the nation’s limited foreign currency resources.

    The analysis identifies a transformative opportunity emerging within the Caribbean Community. Guyana has achieved remarkable agricultural progress, cultivating approximately 12,000 acres of corn and soya in 2024 with ambitious expansion targets of 25,000-30,000 acres by 2025-2026. This development positions Guyana to achieve self-sufficiency in livestock feed while generating surplus grains for export to fellow Caricom nations.

    The core argument questions whether Trinidad’s major poultry integrators, feed millers, agricultural experts, mechanical engineers, and relevant government agencies have initiated formal engagement with Guyanese authorities. Such collaboration could secure long-term supply arrangements for Guyanese corn and soya, potentially priced to gradually reduce Trinidad’s forex exposure.

    Concurrently, the letter urges immediate assessment of Trinidad’s readiness for this regional transition, including evaluation of port facilities, storage capacity, handling capabilities, quality assurance protocols, and necessary legislative or contractual modifications to facilitate trade diversification from distant suppliers to a Caricom partner.

    The conclusion emphasizes that meaningful forex conservation requires more than routine reassurances. It demands a coordinated regional strategy where both private sector and government entities collaborate to transform Guyana’s emerging agricultural production into a stable, cost-effective, intra-Caricom supply chain for poultry feed, ultimately reducing risk and enhancing regional food security.

  • PM: Acting WASA CEO is Dain Maharaj

    PM: Acting WASA CEO is Dain Maharaj

    In a significant development within Trinidad and Tobago’s public utility sector, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has officially confirmed the appointment of Dain Maharaj as the interim Chief Executive Officer of the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA). The announcement came during the December 9 parliamentary session in response to pointed inquiries from Arouca/Lopinot opposition MP Marvin Gonzales.

    During the House of Representatives proceedings, the Prime Minister provided definitive clarification regarding the leadership transition at the state-owned water authority. “The individual designated to serve as acting CEO of WASA is Mr. Dain Maharaj, who remains a current employee of the organization,” Persad-Bissessar stated authoritatively.

    The parliamentary exchange grew notably contentious when Gonzales questioned the circumstances surrounding the departure of former CEO Jeevan Joseph, who had held the position for approximately five months. The Prime Minister firmly rejected the premise of the questioning, asserting that no administrative leave had been imposed regarding the previous acting CEO.

    “The previous interim CEO tendered a resignation based entirely on personal considerations,” Persad-Bissessar clarified. “Therefore, the foundational assumption of your inquiry is fundamentally inaccurate.” This response highlighted the government’s position that the leadership transition occurred through voluntary resignation rather than administrative action.

    The appointment comes at a critical juncture for WASA, which faces ongoing challenges in water distribution and infrastructure management across Trinidad and Tobago. Maharaj’s internal promotion suggests continuity within the organization’s operational framework during this transitional period.

  • PM on pirates, double-tap strike: TT is not judge or jury

    PM on pirates, double-tap strike: TT is not judge or jury

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago has declared that unregistered vessels operating in Caribbean waters will be treated as pirate ships, granting them no legal protections. This statement comes amid growing controversy over US military strikes targeting suspected drug trafficking boats in regional waters.

    Speaking to journalists outside the Red House in Port of Spain on December 9, Persad-Bissessar addressed reports of a September 2 incident where US forces allegedly struck a boat twice—a tactic known as ‘double tapping’ in military terminology—resulting in eleven fatalities. While expressing no sympathy for drug traffickers, the Prime Minister emphasized that the United States operates as a sovereign nation whose actions fall outside Trinidad and Tobago’s jurisdiction to judge.

    ‘US is a sovereign nation and they are free to exercise their sovereignty in manners they see fit,’ Persad-Bissessar stated. ‘I cannot be judge or jury here to determine whether they are right or wrong.’

    The Prime Minister revealed that her government receives no advance notification of US military actions and does not intend to request additional information, characterizing these operations as US security matters. She articulated a firm stance on unregistered vessels: ‘Within the law, they are treated like pirates and therefore will not have the protection of others carrying a flag and identifying who they are.’

    However, maritime lawyer Nyree Alfonso offered a more nuanced perspective, noting that while unregistered vessels might be ‘up to no good,’ they aren’t necessarily pirates in the legal sense. She explained that vessel registration functions as a maritime passport, and without it, boats become ‘almost like a ghost’ without national protection.

    Alfonso acknowledged that while many might disagree with the US methodology, the results of disrupting drug trafficking networks would likely be welcomed by law-abiding citizens. She emphasized the interconnected nature of maritime crimes, noting that drug trafficking often correlates with gun running and human trafficking operations.

    The ongoing US interdiction operations have resulted in at least 87 fatalities across nearly two dozen strikes since September, highlighting the intensifying efforts to combat drug cartels operating in Caribbean and South American waters.

  • Tragic domestic violence incidents spark outrage

    Tragic domestic violence incidents spark outrage

    Trinidad and Tobago faces a devastating surge in gender-based violence as the nation grapples with three separate femicide cases within two weeks, exposing critical failures in domestic violence protection systems. The recent tragedies have sparked national outrage and forced government officials to confront systemic inadequacies in safeguarding vulnerable women.

    The violence culminated with the December 8th murder of Angel Lutchman, a 42-year-old mother of two from Claxton Bay, who was brutally killed by her ex-boyfriend despite having an active restraining order against him. Shazard Mohammed, 29, allegedly stabbed and slit Lutchman’s throat before dying by suicide. The victim’s 12-year-old son made the horrific discovery upon returning home from a relative’s house.

    This tragedy follows the November 23rd murder-suicide involving UNC councillor Romona Victor, 36, killed by her husband Rodney Ramsumair, 45, at their Siparia residence. Just days later on December 7th, Nicole Ovid, 56, was found dead on a pavement in St. James following an alleged altercation with an acquaintance who subsequently surrendered to police.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who had previously vowed to strengthen crisis support systems at Victor’s funeral, now faces mounting criticism. When questioned about concrete plans to address violence against women, the Prime Minister stated she had requested information from Gender Affairs Minister Vandana Mohit but provided no specific timeline or strategy.

    Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander acknowledged fundamental flaws in the restraining order system, admitting: ‘I have always said that the programme does not work well. We are taking a look at it to see how best we can treat with it.’ He emphasized the need for educational initiatives starting at school level to address domestic violence prevention.

    Opposition leader Mickela Panday delivered a powerful social media statement condemning the cultural acceptance of gender-based violence. The attorney and daughter of former prime minister Basdeo Panday highlighted how ‘coercive control, monitoring, threats, financial manipulation, and isolation break a woman down until she doubts her own reality.’ She criticized victim-blaming tendencies and demanded perpetrator accountability, urging police to treat every report with urgency and properly enforce protection orders.

    Panday proposed comprehensive reforms including increased safe houses, financial support for women escaping abusive relationships, strengthened laws, rehabilitation programs for abusers, and relationship education in schools to break the intergenerational cycle of violence.

    As autopsies for Lutchman and Ovid proceed at the Forensic Science Centre, investigations continue while the nation confronts its gendered violence epidemic that has left multiple families shattered and communities demanding immediate action.

  • Judge dismisses accident victim’s medical negligence claim against NCRHA

    Judge dismisses accident victim’s medical negligence claim against NCRHA

    In a significant ruling, Trinidad and Tobago’s High Court has rejected a medical negligence lawsuit against the North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA), determining that physicians at Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex provided appropriate care despite systemic healthcare challenges.

    The case involved Vern Khan, who sustained injuries in a April 2011 accident when his vehicle fell 30 feet, resulting in a fractured right arm. Khan contended that hospital staff delayed necessary surgery, provided inadequate post-operative care, and ultimately caused permanent disability in his limb.

    Justice Joan Charles delivered a comprehensive verdict after examining testimony from both Khan’s medical expert, Dr. Stephen Ramroop, and the defense’s orthopedic specialist, Dr. Anil Kumar. The court found that the 19-day interval before Khan’s May 9, 2011 surgery was medically justified given his presentation with alcohol intoxication, elevated white blood cell counts, facial nerve palsy, and depressive symptoms.

    The judgment emphasized that systemic resource limitations in public healthcare—particularly surgical scheduling delays—do not automatically constitute negligence when medical professionals adhere to established standards. Justice Charles noted that Khan’s own refusal to maintain his back-slab cast contrary to medical advice significantly contributed to his complications.

    Furthermore, the court identified inconsistencies in Khan’s testimony and dismissed his expert’s claims after identifying factual inaccuracies, including an erroneous assertion regarding post-operative X-rays. The ruling established that Khan failed to demonstrate either a breach of duty of care or a direct causal relationship between alleged negligence and his injury.

    The NCRHA received a favorable judgment with costs awarded amounting to $14,000. Legal representation featured Pavitra Ramharack and Brandon Sirju for the claimant, while Colin Blaize and Farai Hove Masaisai advocated for the health authority.

  • Nakhid optimistic ahead of 2030 World Cup campaign

    Nakhid optimistic ahead of 2030 World Cup campaign

    Following Trinidad and Tobago’s unsuccessful bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Parliamentary Secretary for Sport David Nakhid has called for comprehensive rebuilding efforts to secure qualification for the 2030 tournament. The national team finished third in their CONCACAF group behind Jamaica and Curaçao, with the latter securing automatic qualification to the 2026 World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    Trinidad and Tobago’s football history shows only one World Cup appearance at the 2006 tournament in Germany, making the recent qualification failure particularly disappointing for the football-loving nation. Jamaica remains in contention through the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March.

    In statements made outside parliament on December 9, Nakhid emphasized the necessity for structural improvements: “We must persevere and rebuild. As a nation with strong football traditions, our recent performance was inadequate. We cannot afford to consistently miss World Cup cycles. With proper development pathways and synchronization between our efforts and the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association’s vision, we can realistically target 2030 qualification.”

    Nakhid, who serves as parliamentary secretary at the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, acknowledged some progress under current coach Dwight Yorke, who assumed leadership in November 2024 with the specific objective of World Cup qualification. However, Nakhid noted that the TTFA must evaluate whether the results achieved under Yorke’s tenure met expectations.

    The future of Yorke’s leadership remains uncertain with only six months remaining on his contract, raising questions about whether he will continue to guide the team through the rebuilding phase or if new leadership will be sought to pursue the 2030 qualification campaign.

  • Private Sector Organisation launched to unify private sector voice

    Private Sector Organisation launched to unify private sector voice

    PORT OF SPAIN – A transformative development in Trinidad and Tobago’s business landscape emerged on December 10 with the formal inauguration of the Private Sector Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (PSOTT) at Hyatt Regency Trinidad. This groundbreaking initiative consolidates numerous chambers, industry associations, and business service organizations under a unified representative body.

    Under the leadership of Chairman Richard Lewis, former TTMA president and executive director of Label House Ltd, PSOTT’s primary mandate centers on representing private sector interests in national policy discussions. The organization will serve as a strategic bridge between business stakeholders and government policymakers, advocating for structural reforms to enhance economic competitiveness and diversification.

    During the launch ceremony, Lewis articulated the organization’s vision through a powerful analogy: “Imagine 25 different voices, each speaking passionately but often in different directions. Now envision those voices harmonized – clear, strong, and united. This represents our fundamental direction moving forward.”

    The newly established entity will maintain respect for existing business organizations’ autonomy while coordinating strategic policy positions. Immediate operational priorities include finalizing governance bylaws, establishing committee structures, forming an interim board, and developing a comprehensive three-year strategic plan with a detailed 12-month action agenda.

    Lewis emphasized the organization’s substantive purpose beyond structural formation: “This is not just about structure. It is about strength. It is about credibility. It is about impact.” The strategic plan will leverage subject matter experts from member organizations to support both PSOTT and relevant government ministries in implementing diversification initiatives.

    The launch event witnessed participation from key figures including Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism Kama Maharaj, alongside PSOTT deputy chairman Amjad Ali. Lewis concluded with a rallying call for collective commitment to “one team, one vision, one purpose – building Trinidad and Tobago.”

  • Steelpan Titans crush Soca Strikers by five wickets in U23 Cup

    Steelpan Titans crush Soca Strikers by five wickets in U23 Cup

    In a rescheduled second-round encounter of the Cricket West Indies/Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board Under-23 Cup, Steelpan Titans clinched their inaugural tournament victory with a commanding five-wicket triumph over Soca Strikers Under-19. The match unfolded on December 9 at the National Cricket Centre in Balmain, Couva.

    Batting first after being sent in, Soca Strikers posted a competitive total of 144/9 within their allotted 28 overs. Their innings was propelled by aggressive batting displays from Darius Battoosingh, who smashed a rapid-fire 47 runs from merely 27 deliveries, and opener Salem Khan, who contributed a steady 43 from 49 balls.

    The Titans’ bowling attack proved exceptionally effective in containing the Strikers’ batting lineup. Calvin Loubon emerged as the standout performer, claiming an impressive four wickets for just 20 runs. Nick Ramlal demonstrated his all-round capabilities by securing three crucial wickets for 17 runs, while pace bowler Jane Agard supported effectively with two dismissals for 22 runs.

    In response, Steelpan Titans reached the victory target of 146 runs with five wickets in hand, achieving the total in just 26.3 overs. The chase was masterfully anchored by Nick Ramlal, who remained not out on a match-winning 56 runs. He received valuable support from opening batsman Riyaad Mohammed, who added 32 runs to the tally, and Jayden Kent, who contributed 20 runs to the successful pursuit.

    For the previously unbeaten Soca Strikers U19, this defeat marks their first loss in two matches. Their bowling efforts were led by Daron Dhanraj, who took two wickets for 13 runs, and Renaldo Fournillier, who captured two wickets for 31 runs.

    The U23 Cup competition continues on December 10 with third-round fixtures, featuring Steelpan Titans facing Scarlet Blazers at Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, while Soca Strikers U19 will seek redemption against Cocrico Warriors at the National Cricket Centre.

  • Manning: Landlord tax will leave people homeless

    Manning: Landlord tax will leave people homeless

    SAN FERNANDO EAST MP Brian Manning has issued a stark warning that Trinidad and Tobago’s proposed landlord tax could trigger widespread homelessness, escalating his political confrontation with Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo. The former finance ministry minister challenged the government’s characterization of the tax as fundamentally different from previous property tax proposals.

    In a December 9th phone interview, Manning systematically dismantled the government’s position, asserting that the landlord tax mirrors the very property tax structure that the current administration previously opposed. He revealed the tax operates on two tiers: 2.5% on annual rental income below $20,000 and 3.5% on gross annual rental income exceeding that threshold.

    “This version actually proves more expensive than what the PNM had been proposing,” Manning stated, highlighting what he called the government’s “bold-face hypocrisy.” He emphasized that even homeowners renting single rooms would be subject to the tax, potentially forcing residential property classifications to commercial status.

    The MP particularly criticized the $2,500 registration fee, noting landlords must pay this substantial amount before generating any rental income. He contextualized this within broader fiscal measures including electricity surcharges, increased alcohol costs, and new fees on imported goods through container processing charges and doubled customs declaration fees.

    Manning expressed grave concern for vulnerable populations, specifically mentioning former CEPEP and URP workers who lost their livelihoods under current policies. “The Minister of Finance, after putting 50,000 people on the breadline overnight, is now trying to also put them on the street,” he declared, predicting these measures would inevitably increase living costs beyond what many citizens can afford.

    The controversial tax legislation, detailed in the Finance Bill 2025, already passed the Lower House on December 5th and is currently undergoing Senate debate. Manning condemned the overall budget as “the most mismatched, thoughtless, confused budget that I have seen in my entire life,” warning it could decimate multiple industries while creating a housing crisis potentially requiring government-provided free housing for displaced citizens.