Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Police: Comply with fireworks law or face prosecution

    Police: Comply with fireworks law or face prosecution

    The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has issued a formal public alert regarding the stringent enforcement of newly proclaimed fireworks legislation. Under the Summary Offences (Amendment) Act No. 13 of 2025 and accompanying Fireworks Regulations 2025, discharging fireworks without an official permit from the Commissioner of Police constitutes a punishable offense, with limited exceptions.

    The legislation specifies precise time windows during which fireworks may be legally used: exclusively on designated public holidays from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and during the New Year’s Eve transition period from 11:30 PM on December 31 to 12:30 AM on January 1. Beyond these stipulated times, any fireworks usage mandates prior police authorization.

    Effective December 19, 2025, individuals violating these provisions face immediate fines of $450 via ticketing system. The regulations further establish protective buffer zones, prohibiting fireworks discharge within a half-mile radius of sensitive locations including all public and private hospitals, airports, zoological facilities, registered animal shelters, livestock farms, forest reserves, and national parks.

    Police authorities emphasized that irresponsible fireworks usage jeopardizes public safety, risks property damage, causes community disturbances, and creates particular distress for children, elderly residents, vulnerable populations, and domestic animals. The TTPS has committed to conducting targeted patrol operations to identify violations, with warnings and enforcement actions to be implemented accordingly.

    The enforcement announcement follows observed public activities during traditional Boxing Day sales events, where fireworks retailers like Macoya’s Fireone Fireworks experienced high customer turnout, underscoring the timely nature of this regulatory clarification.

  • Secretary General: Caricom preparing for future challenges

    Secretary General: Caricom preparing for future challenges

    In her annual year-end message delivered on December 22, CARICOM Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett provided a comprehensive assessment of the Caribbean Community’s journey through a period of significant challenges and achievements. The address highlighted both the adversities faced by member states and the collective resilience demonstrated throughout the year.

    The region endured devastating natural disasters, including Hurricane Beryl in 2024 and Hurricane Melissa this year, which caused substantial loss of life and infrastructure damage across Jamaica and Haiti. Dr. Barnett emphasized that recovery efforts would demand considerable resources and extended timeframes. Simultaneously, the Caribbean faced unprecedented geopolitical pressures that threatened export revenues, regional stability, and sovereignty.

    Despite these challenges, CARICOM made significant strides in regional integration. Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines initiated full free movement of citizens among their territories, facilitating enhanced economic activity and interpersonal connections. The community also advanced the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) and developed frameworks for a comprehensive Industrial Policy and Strategy, laying groundwork for strengthened productive capacity and economic diversification.

    Agricultural initiatives under the 25 by 2025+ strategy showed production growth despite climate-related setbacks. The region celebrated cultural achievements during Carifesta XV in Barbados and maintained democratic traditions through peaceful elections in seven member states and five associate members.

    Looking forward, CARICOM is prioritizing human capital development, particularly focusing on youth and women’s participation in economic and regional affairs. The community is examining artificial intelligence’s impact on regional business practices while expanding physical and digital connectivity. Disaster resilience and food security programs remain paramount objectives.

    Dr. Barnett expressed gratitude to regional citizens, CARICOM Secretariat staff, international partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector for their contributions. She affirmed confidence in the community’s ability to address future challenges with strategic focus and collective determination, urging all stakeholders to work toward a resilient, prosperous, and united Caribbean community.

  • Logos Hope docks in Tobago

    Logos Hope docks in Tobago

    The MV Logos Hope, renowned as the globe’s largest floating book exhibition, has made its seasonal berth at Scarborough Harbour, Tobago, marking a significant cultural event for the Caribbean region. The vessel, which commenced its stay on December 19, will remain accessible to the public until January 2 before transitioning to Port of Spain for a month-long engagement from January 3 through February 3.

    Operated through a collaborative initiative between international charitable organization GBA Ships and Operation Mobilisation, this unique maritime bookstore boasts an extensive collection exceeding 5,000 literary works. The inventory encompasses diverse genres including children’s literature, fiction, non-fiction, academic references, and educational materials, with a notable representation of publications featuring Christian themes.

    The floating cultural center is maintained by an international volunteer crew representing approximately 60 nationalities, creating a multicultural environment for visitors. During its Tobago deployment, the ship welcomes guests daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with final admissions concluding at 9:00 PM. The facility will observe temporary closures on December 25 and January 1 in recognition of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day celebrations.

    Admission pricing is structured at $5 for general entry, while complimentary access is granted to children under twelve years of age and senior citizens aged sixty-five and above. All visitors must present valid tickets for entry, with minors requiring adult supervision. The vessel accommodates both cash and electronic payment methods, and prospective visitors have the option to reserve specific time slots through advanced online booking systems.

    This visit marks a continuation of the ship’s engagement with the region, following its previous port call in Tobago during 2024. The Logos Hope has established itself as a recurring educational and cultural attraction throughout Trinidad and Tobago, offering unique literary access before proceeding with its international voyage itinerary.

  • Police get 12 vehicles for Christmas

    Police get 12 vehicles for Christmas

    The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has significantly enhanced its operational capacity with the acquisition of 12 fully restored police vehicles, marking the culmination of a rapid fleet rehabilitation initiative that has delivered 52 vehicles within a mere three-week timeframe.

    This strategic infrastructure enhancement occurred on December 24 through collaboration between government ministries and the Vehicle Management Corporation (VMCOTT). The ceremony represented the fulfillment of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s directive to strengthen law enforcement capabilities, particularly ahead of the Christmas season when security demands typically escalate.

    Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander publicly commended VMCOTT and associated stakeholders for their exceptional expediency in returning previously decommissioned vehicles to active duty. “These vehicles, some of which had been out of service for several months to a couple of years, have now been returned to full operational readiness,” confirmed an official TTPS release.

    The government statement emphasized its unwavering commitment to national security, declaring: “The government reaffirms its commitment to equipping the police with practical and reliable resources to strengthen national security and enhance public safety. Promise made, promise kept.”

    The handover ceremony attracted high-ranking officials including Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Eli Zakour, Deputy Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin, VMCOTT chairman Amrall Mohammed, acting CEO Brian Aliendre, alongside additional board members and corporate executives from the state-owned vehicle management entity.

    This development follows a previous vehicle transfer ceremony held on December 12 at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s, which was personally attended by Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, underscoring the administration’s prioritization of law enforcement infrastructure modernization.

  • Seecheran: Regulated framework for traditional medicine

    Seecheran: Regulated framework for traditional medicine

    Trinidad and Tobago has announced a strategic initiative to formally incorporate traditional medicine practices into its national public health framework. The declaration came from Dr. Rishad Seecheran, Minister in the Ministry of Health, during his address at the second World Health Organization Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi.

    Dr. Seecheran emphasized that global health systems face increasing pressure to develop greater resilience, cultural responsiveness, and equity. He positioned traditional medicine not as an alternative approach but as a valuable complementary component that could enhance universal health coverage objectives. The minister characterized traditional medicine as representing ‘centuries of accumulated knowledge, practices and beliefs deeply rooted in culture and community life.’

    The government’s approach acknowledges the existing reality that many citizens already combine traditional remedies with conventional Western treatments. Rather than disregarding this practice, policymakers are developing standardized regulations for traditional medicine products, practices, and practitioners. This regulatory framework will prioritize safety protocols and quality control measures.

    Supporting this integration will be increased investment in scientific research to validate traditional approaches. Trinidad and Tobago also plans to collaborate with international agencies to build specialized human resource capacity and identify integration models tailored to local requirements. Dr. Seecheran commended the WHO’s Traditional Medicine Strategy for providing guidance on evidence-based policy development in this field.

  • Young: Be your brother, sister’s keeper

    Young: Be your brother, sister’s keeper

    In a heartfelt Christmas Eve address, former Prime Minister and Energy Minister Stuart Young called upon citizens of Trinidad and Tobago to embrace communal responsibility during what he described as \”unprecedented times\” for the nation. The Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP expressed profound concern about the country’s current trajectory under the new administration.\n\nYoung specifically highlighted the plight of tens of thousands of citizens who have faced job losses following the United National Congress (UNC) party’s victory in the April 28 general election. The political transition resulted in the termination of several major employment programs including Cepep, the Unemployment Relief Programme (URP), and the National Reafforestation Programme, creating widespread economic hardship.\n\n\”We are in some unprecedented times which will require those of us who want what is best for our country’s future to remain alert and to be prepared to speak out in defence of what is right and against what is wrong,\” Young stated in his social media message. He acknowledged that such advocacy might present challenges but emphasized its necessity for the nation’s wellbeing.\n\nThe former minister characterized the current government’s decisions regarding employment programs as \”callous and heartless,\\” creating particularly difficult circumstances for affected families during the holiday season. He urged those with means to provide assistance to their fellow citizens, invoking the principle of being \”our brothers and sisters’ keepers\” as a fundamental value during this period of national transition.\n\nYoung concluded his message by expressing gratitude to those who had offered support and encouragement throughout the year, striking a note of appreciation amid his critical assessment of the country’s political direction.

  • TTCB secures new youth sponsorships for 2026 push

    TTCB secures new youth sponsorships for 2026 push

    The Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) has successfully secured renewed sponsorship for its youth development programs heading into 2026, marking a significant recovery from the complete loss of youth tournament funding experienced in 2024. This announcement was made by TTCB President Azim Bassarath during the board’s annual end-of-year luncheon at the National Cricket Centre in Couva on December 17.

    The sponsorship package will comprehensively cover the Under-13 and Under-15 inter-zone tournaments, North/South Classics, along with four-team competitions at both Under-17 and Under-19 levels. Bassarath characterized this development as a strong vote of confidence in the organization’s restructured governance and enhanced focus on grassroots cricket development.

    This financial backing arrives as the TTCB intensifies its youth cricket initiatives following a challenging period in early 2024. The previous sponsorship withdrawal stemmed from administrative disputes involving former treasurer Kiswah Chaitoo and a police investigation into financial mismanagement by another ex-employee. Despite these setbacks, the board successfully completed all inter-zone tournaments throughout 2025, culminating in Trinidad and Tobago’s championship victory in the West Indies Rising Stars Under-17 50-over tournament hosted domestically.

    Notable among 2025’s achievements was the innovative Under-23 Cup, which strategically featured an Under-19 team competing against older opponents to accelerate player development through exposure to advanced physical, mental, and tactical challenges. The board also completed level one coaching certification programs across most zones, with plans to extend coverage to remaining areas.

    The 2026 competition calendar will commence with the Under-15 inter-zone tournament on January 28, followed by Under-19 competitions starting February 20. The Under-17 tournament begins April 1, with Under-13 matches commencing April 23. Significantly, the TTCB has committed to maintaining its local Under-17 tournament despite the absence of regional competition at this level, emphasizing the importance of continuous development for this age group.

    Beyond competitive events, the TTCB will collaborate with SporTT to conduct club development seminars nationwide, focusing on governance, administration, and organizational sustainability. Additionally, a coaching caravan will visit underserved communities including Toco, Blanchisseuse, Mayaro and Point Fortin, targeting both male and female players under 20 years old.

    TTCB General Secretary Henry Chase affirmed that the sponsorship return indicates restored confidence in the board’s leadership after what he described as a ‘turbulent 2025’ period.

  • SoE and US/Venezuela tensions hit tourist arrivals in Tobago

    SoE and US/Venezuela tensions hit tourist arrivals in Tobago

    The picturesque shores of Tobago’s Charlotteville waterfront remained unusually tranquil during the peak Christmas season, presenting a stark contrast to the typical holiday bustle. With minimal local activity and a conspicuous absence of international visitors, the scene encapsulated the severe challenges facing Tobago’s hospitality sector.

    Tourism industry leaders have identified dual catalysts for this pronounced downturn: escalating military tensions between the United States and Venezuela, coupled with the ongoing state of emergency declaration. Reginald MacLean, President of the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association, confirmed substantial declines in both advance bookings and actual tourist arrivals during what should be the island’s most profitable period.

    MacLean, who simultaneously serves as general manager of Blue Waters Inn in Speyside, provided concrete metrics illustrating the sector’s struggles. His establishment operated at approximately 70% capacity during the critical holiday period—a significant reduction from the complete occupancy achieved during the same timeframe in 2024.

    Industry-wide assessments confirm this pattern extends across the island. Alpha Lorde, former association president and current general manager of Mt Irvine Bay Hotel, characterized both the 2024 and 2025 Christmas seasons as ‘fairly dismal’ with no hospitality operators reporting strong performance.

    Transportation infrastructure limitations have exacerbated the situation. MacLean emphasized that constrained flight availability and reduced ferry services have created fundamental capacity constraints preventing hotel occupancy recovery.

    Industry executives have expressed frustration with governmental support levels. Despite official rhetoric about economic diversification beyond hydrocarbon dependence, tourism stakeholders perceive insufficient concrete action. Multiple attempts by Newsday to obtain comments from Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and Tourism Secretary Tashia Burris yielded no response.

    The industry’s challenges accumulated throughout 2025, beginning with an initial state of emergency, progressing through electoral transitions and governmental changes, and culminating with renewed emergency declarations and geopolitical complications. Tourism professionals maintain cautious optimism that 2026 may bring improved circumstances and renewed visitor interest to Tobago’s hospitality sector.

  • Football, fit players and bush-baths: Indy Premier’s winning trip to Trinidad

    Football, fit players and bush-baths: Indy Premier’s winning trip to Trinidad

    Indianapolis-based football academy Indy Premier SC achieved a spectacular double triumph at the Jewels of the Caribbean invitational tournament in Trinidad, showcasing a revolutionary approach to player development that prioritizes cognitive skills over traditional positional coaching.

    The academy’s Under-17 squad delivered a breathtaking performance, securing victory in all matches while scoring 20 goals and maintaining a perfect defensive record without conceding any. Their Under-20 team mirrored this success, netting 12 goals while allowing only two across four matches to complete the championship sweep.

    Trinidad-born head coach Kenrick Ramirez, who leads the program alongside Indiana Coaching Hall of Fame inductee Russell Gee and U20 defender Aubrey Robertson, attributes their success to a philosophy that emphasizes game intelligence, decision-making, and positional fluidity over rigid tactical systems. “We don’t teach positions,” Ramirez explained. “When you teach positions, decision-making becomes an issue. We have players who excel in multiple roles because they understand the game fundamentally.”

    The academy’s preparation involved sophisticated data-driven analysis and GPS monitoring to manage player workload throughout the seven-day tournament. Despite rotating squad members constantly to maintain fitness levels, the team’s performance remained consistently dominant, including decisive victories against Trinidad and Tobago’s national team (4-0) and Jamaica’s national squad (5-0 and 3-0).

    Ramirez’s strategic focus centered on three critical aspects: decision-making in the attacking third, transition to attack, and transition to defense. “We implemented an aggressive forward-passing game,” he noted. “When possession was lost, we immediately pressed because we identified defensive transition as a vulnerability in our opponents.”

    Beyond the tactical achievements, the academy overcame significant logistical challenges, arriving in Trinidad with only 11 Under-20 players and supplementing their roster with U-17 athletes. Ramirez praised the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association for their exceptional organization and hospitality, which helped mitigate these complications.

    The cultural experience formed an integral part of the journey, with players enjoying traditional ‘bake-and-shark’ at Maracas Beach and observing local league matches. The trip even included humorous superstitions, as two players took extended “bush-baths” after learning about the practice for eliminating bad luck—both subsequently broke scoring droughts and earned tournament honors.

    Ramirez’s coaching journey emerged from personal adversity after a serious accident ended his promising playing career. His relocation to Columbus, Indiana, revealed the untapped potential for structured football development in a basketball-dominated region. At just 26, he became Indiana’s youngest club director and has since developed a proven framework that produces scholarship athletes and national team players.

    Now as sporting director at Indy Premier, Ramirez oversees a nonprofit organization that has experienced substantial growth through unified leadership and a clear developmental vision. His ultimate measure of success extends beyond trophies: “We aim to develop responsible, well-rounded human beings who become good stewards of society. Winning naturally follows proper development.”

  • Piparo family keeps watch on mud volcano

    Piparo family keeps watch on mud volcano

    Residents of Piparo faced a disruptive Christmas as seismic activity from the local mud volcano intensified, prompting an urgent visit from Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John on December 25th. The minister emphasized that holidays become insignificant during crises as she assessed the damage firsthand.

    The volcanic activity, which commenced on December 24th, has generated substantial infrastructure damage, including major fissures in roadways that have rendered them unusable. At least five households have been directly impacted by the eruption, which ejected heated mud and smoke into the atmosphere.

    Fedell Solomon, a resident residing in close proximity to the eruption site, described the ongoing geological disturbances. While the volcanic noises have diminished, new fissures continue to emerge around his two-story property where he lives with his wife, three children, and elderly parents. Solomon reported complete water supply disruption due to damaged pipelines caused by ground movement.

    Minister John committed to immediate infrastructure repairs, promising restored road access by the following Wednesday and coordination with relevant authorities to address the water crisis. The Rural Development and Local Government Ministry had previously issued warnings about restricted access to Piparo Road and advised alternative routes with heightened safety precautions.

    This event echoes previous volcanic activity in October 2019 and a significant 1997 eruption that necessitated community evacuations. Solomon revealed that his family had been offered alternative housing during the 2019 incident but declined due to financial constraints, noting their home was constructed 38 years prior without any visible volcanic indicators.

    The close-knit community has mobilized support efforts while residents and officials maintain vigilant monitoring of the evolving geological situation.