Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Legislation being drafted against price-gouging

    Legislation being drafted against price-gouging

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Consumer Affairs Division currently lacks legal authority to penalize businesses engaging in price-gouging practices, though comprehensive consumer protection legislation is now in development. This critical gap in enforcement capabilities emerged during a December 5 Joint Select Committee on Finance and Legal Affairs meeting, where officials addressed the nation’s escalating food security challenges and mounting import expenses.

    Committee Chair Dr. Marlene Attzs, alongside members Brian Manning and Vishnu Dhanpaul, confronted trade ministry representatives about persistently high grocery prices that continue to burden consumers. When questioned whether tax and duty removals on imported food actually resulted in retail price reductions, Trade Facilitation Director Neville Alexander acknowledged the ministry’s monitoring efforts but confirmed they could only provide guidance rather than enforcement.

    “We monitor prices before and after implementation of measures,” Alexander explained. “We inform the public about expected savings from government actions, but ultimately advise consumers to avoid retailers who fail to pass on these benefits—this represents our current approach.”

    The absence of legal penalties leaves consumers vulnerable, a concern underscored by Attzs during the proceedings. Candice Hicks, Director of the Legal Unit, revealed that consumer protection legislation featuring a penalty framework is now prioritized at the bill stage. “We’ve placed it at the top of our legislative agenda,” Hicks stated, while noting the ministry cannot control parliamentary timing. The target for completing ministerial preparations is the first quarter of 2026.

    Permanent Secretary Abigail Bynoe indicated that implementing enforcement capabilities would necessitate additional staffing and potential restructuring of the division to handle investigations. Meanwhile, agriculture officials provided context for why tax removals don’t always translate to consumer savings. Acting Chief Technical Officer Dr. Ian Mohammed noted importers frequently cite external cost pressures to justify maintaining high prices.

    Bynoe presented significant economic data, revealing Trinidad and Tobago’s food import bill stands at US$1.08 billion against exports of approximately US$500 million. She emphasized that many imports constitute essential raw materials for local production, supporting higher value-added manufacturing and foreign exchange earnings through exports. The poultry industry exemplifies this dynamic, where imports of hatching eggs and feed enable both domestic market satisfaction and substantial export value.

    The government has established ambitious targets: reducing the food import bill by US$2 billion while increasing exports by US$1 billion. Achieving these goals will require modernizing farming practices, investing in critical infrastructure, improving water management, addressing agricultural crime, and revitalizing strategic agricultural industries through expanded value-added production.

  • Man dies in New Grant fire

    Man dies in New Grant fire

    A devastating residential fire in the New Grant community has resulted in the tragic death of a 40-year-old man on December 7th. The victim has been identified as Armanath Ramnarinesingh, who perished in the blaze that engulfed his two-story residence located on Frederick Branch Road.

    According to preliminary reports obtained by Newsday, the catastrophic fire ignited approximately at 7:00 PM, rapidly consuming the structure where Ramnarinesingh resided. Emergency responders, including fire service personnel, rushed to the scene upon notification, battling the flames in efforts to control the inferno and prevent further destruction.

    The exact cause of the conflagration remains undetermined at this time, with authorities launching a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Fire officials and forensic experts are meticulously examining the premises to establish the origin and circumstances that led to the deadly outbreak.

    While the confirmed casualty remains singular, officials have not yet issued definitive statements regarding potential additional victims. The investigation continues as community members mourn the loss of life in this tragic incident, which highlights ongoing concerns about residential fire safety protocols and emergency response effectiveness in the region.

  • Husband, wife kidnapped off Monos Island – $2.5 million ransom demanded

    Husband, wife kidnapped off Monos Island – $2.5 million ransom demanded

    In a disturbing development on Monos Island, renowned former powerboat racer Derek ‘Stones’ Tardieu, 70, and his wife Clarabelle have been violently abducted from their residence. The couple was forcibly taken by armed kidnappers who subsequently contacted family members demanding a substantial ransom payment of $2.5 million for their safe release.

    According to investigative sources, the home invasion occurred while the Tardieus were present at their property. The assailants thoroughly ransacked the premises before departing with the elderly couple. Particularly concerning is Tardieu’s critical medical condition—the former athlete suffers from severe heart complications and a brain tumor requiring continuous medication, raising urgent concerns about his wellbeing in captivity.

    The kidnappers have provided chilling proof of life through a video recording showing Tardieu with a firearm pressed against his head while another individual brandishes a grenade. Initial contact was established around 9:44 AM when relatives received a voice message from an unrecognized number containing Tardieu’s apparent statement: ‘They have me and want US$2.5 million for my release.’

    The couple’s son, Phillip Tardieu, discovered the ransacked home after being alerted to the situation and found both parents missing. Subsequent attempts to reach his father via mobile phone proved unsuccessful. Law enforcement authorities and family representatives are urgently requesting public assistance, asking anyone with relevant information to immediately contact emergency numbers 555, 999, or the nearest police station.

  • Duke backs TPP: When Farley wins, we win

    Duke backs TPP: When Farley wins, we win

    In a dramatic political reversal, Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) leader Watson Duke has publicly endorsed the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. The announcement came during a December 8 media conference in Scarborough where Duke declared, “If Farley wins, we win. We are one.”

    This endorsement marks a significant reconciliation between formerly bitter political rivals. The PDP had achieved a landslide victory in the previous THA elections, securing 14 out of 15 seats. However, a substantial rupture occurred within the party just one year later when Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and twelve other assembly members defected from the PDP to establish the TPP following a very public dispute with Duke.

    The PDP subsequently experienced a disappointing performance in the April 28 general election, with Duke himself failing to secure victory as the Tobago East candidate. Following this electoral setback, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar disclosed that Duke had approached her seeking employment opportunities.

    Recent developments suggest a thaw in previously strained political relationships. Duke was among the attendees at a November 4 reception held at the Prime Minister’s official Blenheim residence in Tobago. The event followed Persad-Bissessar’s presentation of an export licence for the Studley Park project to Augustine. During the gathering, the Prime Minister acknowledged both political symbols, noting, “We have the flambeau (PDP symbol) and we have the anchor (TPP symbol),” while greeting Duke and another TPP official.

  • TUCO opens registration for Carnival competitions, awaits sponsors

    TUCO opens registration for Carnival competitions, awaits sponsors

    The Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) has officially commenced registration procedures for its highly anticipated 2026 Carnival competitions. Registration opened December 8 across multiple zonal offices including the head office in Woodbrook, North Zone office in Port of Spain, South/Central Zone office in San Fernando, East Zone office in Arima, and Tobago’s office in Scarborough.

    Eligibility extends to all citizens and naturalized citizens, with tiered registration fees reflecting membership status. Financial members will pay $100 for senior competitions, while non-members face a $500 fee. Members with outstanding dues can regularize their status for $150 per year of lapsed membership.

    TUCO President Ainsley King revealed in a December 8 interview that prize structures remain undetermined as the organization awaits commitments from potential sponsors. King acknowledged TUCO’s significant reliance on government funding, noting concerning signals from recent sponsorship withdrawals from other cultural organizations like Pan Trinbago.

    While no official confirmation of funding reductions has been received, King observed that ‘it is not business as usual’ regarding traditional sponsorship patterns. The president confirmed TUCO has contingency plans, including re-engaging previous sponsors, should primary funding sources diminish.

    Critical registration deadlines have been established: National Calypso Monarch (January 9, 3pm), National Extempo Monarch (January 30, 3pm), National Freestyle Monarch (January 30, 3pm), National Road March Competition (February 13, 3pm), and National Junior Calypso Monarch (January 13, 3pm). Interested participants can seek additional information at tucoamc2026@gmail.com.

  • EBC chair to returning officers: Conduct THA elections with integrity

    EBC chair to returning officers: Conduct THA elections with integrity

    TOBAGO – The electoral machinery for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections has been officially set in motion with the ceremonial presentation of writs to returning officers, marking the formal initiation of proceedings leading to the January 12 polling day.

    In a significant procedural event conducted under Election Rule 3 of the Representation of the People Act, Chapter 2:01, Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) chairman Mark Ramkerrysingh personally handed the writs to the appointed officers. This legal instrument empowers the officials to administer the electoral process on behalf of the EBC, establishing the framework for democratic participation.

    Chairman Ramkerrysingh addressed the assembled officers with a compelling charge, emphasizing their critical role as custodians of electoral integrity. He characterized their position as “guardians of the process on the ground” who carry the substantial responsibility of maintaining public confidence in the nation’s democratic institutions.

    “The people of Tobago expect an orderly, transparent, and trustworthy process,” Ramkerrysingh stated. “What you do impacts democracy directly, and it is a great service to this country.” He stressed that every electoral event, regardless of scale, must be conducted with absolute professionalism, impartiality, and unwavering integrity.

    The EBC chairman further elaborated on leadership expectations, urging officers to foster positive working relationships with polling day staff through effective support, guidance, and management. He affirmed that the commission’s selection process identified individuals possessing demonstrated competence and requisite experience for these temporary but crucial positions.

    Ramkerrysingh concluded with an inspirational charge: “May you execute your duties with confidence, integrity, and the sense of purpose befitting the high office you temporarily hold. Together, let us deliver an election that Tobago can trust and be proud of.”

  • Hello World demolishes rivals in Santa Rosa

    Hello World demolishes rivals in Santa Rosa

    In a dramatic showcase of horseracing excellence, the 2025 local racing season approached its conclusion with the Stewards Cup at Santa Rosa Park in Arima on December 6. The grade one feature event, contested on a wet but rapid main track, unfolded as a captivating battle among five elite thoroughbreds racing over 1,200 meters.

    The competition, open to West Indian-bred three-year-olds and above plus imported two-year-olds and older horses, began with an even break when starter Wayne Campbell dispatched the field at 3:57 PM. Early positioning saw Hello World and stablemate Headliner establishing dominance at the 1,100-meter mark, with Hello World securing a slight advantage by the 800-meter pole.

    The race dynamics shifted dramatically as filly Sneaky Cheeky mounted a formidable challenge from fourth position, systematically overtaking competitors approaching the 600-meter marker. By the 400-meter point, Sneaky Cheeky had captured second place, though favorite Hello World had simultaneously extended his lead to two lengths.

    As the field turned toward the final stretch, Hello World maintained a commanding advantage while the battle for second intensified dramatically. In a stunning development, Headliner discovered extraordinary late-race speed, reclaiming second position with just 200 meters remaining and launching a serious challenge against his stablemate for the lead.

    Champion jockey Dillon Khelawan, recognizing the imminent threat, expertly urged Hello World to produce one final burst of effort, securing both the victory and the $42,435 prize. The win highlighted an exceptional day for Khelawan, who achieved four victories, while jockey Andrew Poon recorded a double. Champion trainer John O’Brien dominated the training ranks with three winners, with trainers Ramesh Ramroop, Glenn Mendez, and Johnathan Lyder each saddling one victorious horse.

    Racing action will continue on December 26 with the prestigious Gold Cup as the centerpiece event, contested over 2,000 meters on the main track. The co-feature will be the Juvenile Championship, a grade-two race covering 1,200 meters on the same course.

  • Kublalsingh: PM must ‘step aside’ for aligning with ‘imperialists’

    Kublalsingh: PM must ‘step aside’ for aligning with ‘imperialists’

    Prominent environmental activist Dr. Wayne Kublalsingh has issued a forceful demand for Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to relinquish her position, accusing her of embroiling Trinidad and Tobago in what he characterizes as an “imperialist” agenda through alleged support of controversial US military operations in the region.

    The controversy stems from ongoing US counter-narcotics operations that have resulted in over 80 fatalities across more than 20 lethal strikes in the Southern Caribbean and Pacific since September 2. United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has declared these operations in violation of established international law.

    During a December 7 vigil for peace at Woodford Square in Port of Spain, organized amid escalating US-Venezuela tensions, Kublalsingh delivered a scathing indictment of the government’s foreign policy alignment. “She appears to be actively encouraging this military approach, mirroring the previous Trump administration’s attempted strategy of invading Venezuela, installing an illegitimate leader, and securing oil access,” he asserted.

    The environmental advocate accused the administration of abandoning diplomatic channels in favor of militarized approaches, stating that Persad-Bissessar was following the “American playbook” of confrontation rather than negotiation. He called for her to “step aside peacefully and diplomatically” to preserve national interests.

    Regarding ongoing US investigations into potential war crimes allegations, Kublalsingh warned that the Prime Minister was effectively painting targets on herself and her supporters. He challenged the evidentiary basis of the strikes, demanding: “Has America produced any verification that these vessels transported drugs? Any proof these individuals were traffickers? The answer is none.”

    Radio and television personality Abeo Jackson amplified these concerns in an impassioned address, urging national unity across political divisions to confront what she termed the government’s “betrayal” of economic sovereignty. She specifically referenced damaged relations with Venezuela and lost opportunities for oil access, arguing that the administration was sacrificing national interests to align with “big imperialist nations.”

    Movement for Social Justice leader David Abdulah, addressing questions about the modest turnout, emphasized the qualitative significance of the diverse cross-section of participants. He maintained that Trinidad and Tobago’s international reputation had suffered severe damage due to the administration’s policies, stating that protesters were “maintaining the integrity of TT” against complicity in questionable international operations.

    All three speakers framed the situation as a critical juncture for Caribbean sovereignty, invoking historical struggles for self-determination and calling for the region to maintain its status as a “zone of peace” through diplomatic engagement rather than military alignment.

  • Nicholas Romany dominates in Barbados with 10K, mile titles

    Nicholas Romany dominates in Barbados with 10K, mile titles

    Trinidad and Tobago’s distance running sensation Nicholas Romany achieved an extraordinary sporting milestone at the 2025 Run Barbados Marathon and Wellness Weekend, securing his third consecutive double victory in both the Casuahina 10K Run and PWC Fun Mile events. The spectacular performances unfolded on December 6th in Barbados, where Romany demonstrated world-class endurance and strategic brilliance.

    Romany’s 10K triumph came in a blistering 31 minutes and 20 seconds, narrowly defeating four-time Run Barbados marathon champion Alex Ekesa (31:22), the Kenyan runner based in Trinidad and Tobago. Colombian athlete Sergio Lopez completed the podium with a time of 32:27.

    In a post-race analysis, Romany revealed his winning strategy: ‘The competition unfolded exactly as anticipated—extremely challenging due to the caliber of athletes. While this year’s course was flatter, the headwinds presented significant difficulties. I maintained pace with Alex throughout the race and deployed my finishing speed in the final stretch to secure victory.’

    The champion emphasized the psychological aspect of his performance, noting: ‘Mental resilience and determination were crucial in pushing through to the finish. I’m particularly grateful for the tremendous support from my teammates and compatriots.’

    Romany praised the event organization, highlighting the exceptional international camaraderie and vibrant atmosphere that characterizes the Run Barbados experience.

    Looking forward, the champion plans brief recovery before resuming training with ambitions to achieve Commonwealth Games qualification standards in the 1500-meter event.

    Other notable performances included Colombian Palmenia Berrio’s gold medal in the women’s 10K (37:02), while Trinidad and Tobago’s Christopher Mitchell dominated the Sleeping Giant men’s 5K event with an impressive 15:28 finish. The Trinidadian contingent demonstrated remarkable depth with multiple podium finishes across various events, including April John’s bronze in the women’s 5K and a complete sweep of the top four positions in the PWC Fun Mile event.

    The 2025 edition solidified Run Barbados’s status as a premier international running festival, attracting elite athletes from across the Americas and showcasing the growing dominance of Caribbean distance runners.

  • Claxton Bay woman killed by ex-boyfriend who dies by suicide

    Claxton Bay woman killed by ex-boyfriend who dies by suicide

    A devastating case of domestic violence culminated in dual fatalities on December 8 in Claxton Bay, concluding a turbulent relationship between two residents of Pranz Gardens. The victims have been identified as 43-year-old Angel Lutchman, an entrepreneurial mother of two, and 29-year-old technician Shazard Mohammed.

    The tragic sequence unfolded when Lutchman’s 12-year-old son returned from an overnight stay with relatives to discover the horrifying scene. His mother had been brutally attacked in her bedroom, suffering fatal stab wounds and a slit throat. Mohammed’s body was found nearby in the same room, having taken his own life following the murder.

    This lethal conclusion came despite Lutchman’s proactive measures for protection. Just two weeks prior to the incident, she had secured a restraining order against Mohammed, who resided merely a few houses away. The court order proved insufficient protection against the escalating violence that characterized their relationship.

    Family accounts reveal contrasting perspectives on the couple’s dynamic. Lutchman’s relatives described Mohammed as persistently abusive, noting that conflicts between the pair occurred with disturbing regularity. Conversely, Mohammed’s family acknowledged the frequent verbal and physical altercations while simultaneously characterizing the couple as ‘inseparable’ in their complex relationship dynamic.

    Lutchman, who operated an online business, leaves behind two children from a previous relationship. Mohammed was also a parent to one child, compounding the tragedy’s impact on multiple families within the community.