Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • PSA, CPO talks on 10% wage offer ongoing

    PSA, CPO talks on 10% wage offer ongoing

    The Public Services Association (PSA), led by President Felisha Thomas, has initiated formal discussions with Chief Personnel Officer Dr. Daryl Dindial regarding a proposed 10% salary increase for union members. The negotiations commenced at approximately 11:20 am at the CPO’s office on Alexandra Street in Port of Spain, marking a significant development in ongoing public sector compensation talks.

    This meeting follows a previous engagement on November 21, during which acting CPO Wendy Barton provided the union with a formal commitment letter promising the 10% increase. That commitment came after the PSA delivered a comprehensive presentation on current economic conditions. Dr. Dindial was absent during that meeting due to international travel commitments.

    Notably absent from today’s proceedings was the heightened publicity that typically surrounds such salary negotiations. The subdued atmosphere contrasted sharply with previous bargaining sessions, suggesting both parties are approaching these talks with deliberate seriousness.

    The discussions reached a temporary pause at 1:00 pm as both negotiating teams adjourned for lunch, with expectations to reconvene within the hour. This remains an evolving situation with potential significant implications for public sector employees across the nation.

  • Ian Atherly cycling meet closes San Fernando City Month celebrations

    Ian Atherly cycling meet closes San Fernando City Month celebrations

    The San Fernando City Month celebrations will reach their grand finale on November 30 with the Ian Atherly Cycling Meet, set to take place at Skinner Park. The event, which kicks off at 4 pm, will be held on the cycling track named in honor of the former San Fernando mayor and celebrated cyclist, Ian Atherly. This one-day, day-night meet will feature a mix of sprint and endurance races, with 49 events contested by clubs from across Trinidad and Tobago. Atherly, who won a bronze medal in the match sprint at the 1974 Commonwealth Games, emphasized that this juniors and open cycling meet is a fitting tribute to the sport’s rich history in southern Trinidad. He also revealed that he postponed the first anniversary of Ian Atherly Day (September 7) to commemorate it at this event. Since retiring from competitive cycling over two decades ago, Atherly has remained a passionate advocate for the sport’s development. The meet will include categories ranging from youth development (Under-7 to Under-11) to elite and masters, with races for both male and female cyclists. The evening will conclude with a 30-lap invitational race featuring participants from juniors to masters. Atherly acknowledged the support of personal friends who sponsored the event and highlighted that several races will honor San Fernando’s cycling legends, including Pyo Lyons and the late Ronnie Ragoonanan. Additionally, a vintage car display will be held in the car park, starting at 4 pm. Admission to the event is free, as Atherly aims to inspire the younger generation to embrace cycling. The meet marks the end of San Fernando City Month’s sports-focused celebrations, which also included the Premier Sports Club’s Football Tournament, Sando Run 5k, the Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament, and the King of D Bois stickfighting event on November 28.

  • Forged in innovation, driven by purpose

    Forged in innovation, driven by purpose

    In a powerful address to the 2025 graduating class of the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), Sieunarine Persad Coosal, Executive Chairman of the Coosal’s Group of Companies and honorary doctor of entrepreneurship and innovation, urged graduates to embrace their role as change-makers in an era of unprecedented transformation. Coosal emphasized that the world is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, artificial intelligence, climate change, economic uncertainty, and social inequality. He challenged the graduates not to passively adapt to these changes but to lead them with purpose and innovation. Coosal highlighted the importance of resilience, creativity, and a mindset focused on solutions rather than problems. Drawing inspiration from historical figures like Thomas Edison and Malala Yousafzai, he reminded the audience that failure is a stepping stone to progress and that true success lies in uplifting others. Coosal called on the graduates to use their education to make a meaningful impact on their families, communities, and nation, urging them to dream boldly and act with purpose. He concluded by celebrating their achievements and potential, describing them as the architects of a resilient and prosperous future.

  • TTSEC warns investment scams on the rise

    TTSEC warns investment scams on the rise

    The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission (TTSEC) has issued a critical public advisory regarding an alarming proliferation of sophisticated investment scams. In an official statement released November 27, the financial regulatory authority detailed how fraudsters are deploying increasingly advanced tactics, including artificial intelligence-generated content, to deceive potential victims.

    According to the TTSEC, modern investment scams employ a multi-faceted approach to gain victims’ trust. Fraudsters create convincing fake social media profiles using stolen imagery and minimal personal information. These operations frequently promise unrealistic financial returns, such as generating $30,150 from a $2,000 investment within mere hours, to entice victims with impossible guarantees.

    The commission highlighted that scammers typically migrate conversations to private messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Telegram after initial contact. There, impersonators posing as legitimate investment representatives provide false assurances using fabricated documentation. The TTSEC specifically warned about scammers’ growing use of AI technology to create convincing fake documents, profiles of high-ranking officials, and even counterfeit video messages featuring supposed institutional leaders.

    Other red flags include urgent deposit requests to ‘secure limited spots,’ false claims about fee-free investments, and completely fabricated investment platforms that display exaggerated account balances to simulate profitable returns. Victims often face subsequent demands for substantial withdrawal fees exceeding $1,000, followed by additional payment requests.

    The advisory further cautioned against sharing sensitive personal information, including ID card images, credit card details, passwords, or bank PINs with unknown individuals. Scammers may also request funds through third-party money transfer services, potentially implicating victims in money laundering schemes.

    The TTSEC emphasized that these operations frequently employ fake testimonials and staged social media content to create false social proof. They maintain persistent pressure through multiple communication channels and typically cease all contact when victims express doubts or request refunds.

    The commission urges the public to exercise extreme skepticism toward unsolicited investment opportunities, particularly those promoted through social media or messaging applications. Verification of registration status for any individual or entity can be conducted through the TTSEC’s official website at https://www.ttsec.org.tt/registration/registered-companies-individuals-and-securities/

    Suspicious activities should be reported immediately to marketcomplaints@ttsec.org.tt.

  • ‘Green Machine’ snatch East Zone Intercol title, Five Rivers cop girls’ crown

    ‘Green Machine’ snatch East Zone Intercol title, Five Rivers cop girls’ crown

    In a thrilling finale at the Larry Gomes Stadium on November 26, St Augustine Secondary ended a ten-year drought by clinching the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) boys’ East Zone intercol title with a dramatic 2-1 victory over San Juan North Secondary. The match, which seemed destined for a penalty shootout, took a decisive turn in the dying moments of stoppage time. San Juan defender Mathyyas Charles’ costly error near the penalty area allowed St Augustine’s star midfielder Giovanni Hospedales to capitalize. Hospedales, who had already scored earlier, skillfully maneuvered along the byline and netted the winning goal with a precise right-footed shot that ricocheted off the post and goalkeeper Elijah Lawrence before crossing the line. The victory sparked wild celebrations among the St Augustine players and coaching staff. Earlier in the match, San Juan had taken the lead through Jaheem Danclar in the 31st minute, but Hospedales equalized in the 47th minute. Despite being reduced to ten men after Michael Charles’ red card in the 73rd minute, St Augustine held firm, with goalkeeper Tyrese Henry making a crucial save moments after the winning goal. The triumph marked St Augustine’s first East Zone title since 2015, when veteran coach Michael Grayson led them to glory. Grayson, now an assistant coach, and head coach Tacuma Jones celebrated the hard-fought victory in a challenging season for the team. In the girls’ final, Five Rivers secured a 1-0 win over San Juan, with Hackeemar Goodridge’s 18th-minute strike proving decisive.

  • Priorities and Prospects: Driving Tobago’s economic development

    Priorities and Prospects: Driving Tobago’s economic development

    The Tobago Division of the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce is gearing up for a revitalized economy in 2026, driven by a combination of strategic policies and collaborative efforts. As the primary advocate for sustainable business growth on the island, the division is actively promoting projects that stimulate economic activity and bolster investor confidence. Key initiatives include addressing public infrastructure needs, enhancing government service efficiency, and fostering closer collaboration with the central government. These efforts aim to position Tobago to seize emerging opportunities in a rapidly evolving economic landscape. Tourism remains the cornerstone of Tobago’s economy, contributing nearly 14% of the island’s GDP and employing around 16,000 people. The sector’s potential is further amplified by the completion of the airport expansion project, which triples passenger capacity and opens up new investment opportunities in high-end accommodations and logistics. Additionally, the development of a modern commercial port, including a cruise ship terminal and marina, is expected to boost international trade, tourism, and marine activities while creating long-term employment and attracting foreign exchange. The chamber emphasizes the importance of aligning these projects with Tobago’s sustainable tourism strategy and environmental goals. Beyond tourism, the division is exploring diversification in export markets, particularly through the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME), which offers new avenues for local businesses to expand their reach. Challenges such as foreign exchange shortages persist, but the chamber remains committed to finding solutions in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. Opportunities abound in agriculture, renewable energy, manufacturing, and the digital economy, positioning Tobago as a hub for innovation and investment. The chamber’s optimism for the island’s economic future is unwavering, as it continues to foster an environment that supports both local and international enterprises, ensuring inclusive growth for all stakeholders.

  • Digicel TT to spend $20m on upgrades

    Digicel TT to spend $20m on upgrades

    Digicel TT has unveiled a major $20 million infrastructure investment aimed at revolutionizing its telecommunications network across Trinidad and Tobago. The comprehensive upgrade strategy involves decommissioning the outdated 2G network by December 31, 2025, while simultaneously enhancing data capabilities and network resilience.

    CEO Pieter Verkade confirmed the company’s substantial commitment to technological advancement, stating that this investment demonstrates Digicel’s long-term dedication to the Trinidad and Tobago market. The modernization initiative includes multiple components: upgrading mobile sites, reinforcing critical infrastructure, and transitioning important fiber lines underground for enhanced protection against environmental factors.

    The infrastructure overhaul has already produced tangible results with seven new mobile sites becoming operational. An additional twenty sites are scheduled for completion by early 2026, significantly expanding coverage and improving data transmission speeds nationwide. This expansion directly addresses growing consumer and enterprise demand for high-quality internet and reliable communication services.

    For enterprise and government clients, the network enhancements promise strengthened uptime capabilities, improved cybersecurity measures, and infrastructure capable of supporting data-intensive operations. The technological improvements specifically target the increasing requirements for connectivity and data-driven business processes.

    The 2G network retirement represents a strategic reallocation of spectrum resources toward next-generation technologies. Digicel began preparing customers for this transition three years ago, distributing over 700 upgraded devices at no cost to ensure seamless migration. Customers still utilizing 2G-exclusive handsets are encouraged to visit Digicel stores to obtain compatible replacement devices while inventory remains available.

    This $20 million investment constitutes part of Digicel’s broader commitment to Trinidad and Tobago, where the company has invested over $1.2 billion since its establishment. The current upgrades aim to deliver a more robust, future-ready network that maintains high performance standards amid escalating data consumption patterns.

    Verkade emphasized that these efforts ultimately focus on constructing a modern, resilient telecommunications framework that will support Trinidad and Tobago’s digital transformation for years to come, ensuring reliable service quality and enhanced customer experiences across all user segments.

  • AG hits Opposition hypocrisy on Stand Your Ground– Gun-toting PNM MPs

    AG hits Opposition hypocrisy on Stand Your Ground– Gun-toting PNM MPs

    In a heated session of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, Attorney General John Jeremie, SC, made a startling accusation against the Opposition while presenting the Home Invasion (Self Defence and Defence of Property) Bill 2025. Jeremie claimed that ‘practically all’ Opposition MPs possess multiple firearms, some owning up to four or five, yet oppose the bill that would make it easier for law-abiding citizens to access legal firearms for self-defence. He labelled this stance as hypocrisy, arguing that the Opposition denies ordinary citizens the right to protect themselves while securing firearms for their own use. The bill, which aims to address rising crime rates, including home invasions and murders, has sparked intense debate. Jeremie cited alarming statistics, noting that annual homicides increased from 420 in 2015 to 624 in 2024, while serious reported crimes rose from 825 to nearly 1,000 per 100,000 people. The proposed legislation, inspired by self-defence laws in the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, seeks to empower citizens to use deadly force if necessary during home invasions. However, Opposition figures, including former police commissioner Gary Griffith and Port of Spain South MP Keith Scotland, SC, have criticized the bill as draconian and socially reckless. Griffith accused the Opposition of hypocrisy, recalling instances where PNM members sought firearms for personal use. Scotland, meanwhile, argued that the bill could endanger homeowners by exposing them to murder charges and lengthy remand periods. He urged the government to focus on law enforcement and social investments rather than introducing new legislation.

  • Sammy’s comment misses the mark

    Sammy’s comment misses the mark

    Darren Sammy, the former West Indies cricket captain, has sparked controversy with his recent comments dismissing critics of the regional cricket team. In a heated statement, Sammy remarked, ‘People who don’t know an iota of cricket are criticising us.’ While Sammy is known for his passion, his sweeping dismissal of public opinion has been labeled as not only misplaced but also deeply insulting. Critics argue that Sammy has overlooked a fundamental truth: West Indies cricket was built not just by legendary players but also by generations of devoted fans across the Caribbean. From farmers in St Vincent to schoolboys in Laventille, every supporter has a vested interest in the team’s success. The right to critique a team’s performance, especially during repeated failures, is not contingent on personal cricketing expertise. Representing the West Indies is about embodying pride, culture, and resilience. When the team consistently underperforms, it’s natural for fans, who contribute through viewership, merchandise, and unwavering support, to demand better. Critics are not attempting to coach the players but are highlighting issues like lack of hunger, weak leadership, and a growing disconnect between the team and its supporters. The West Indies cricket team has not only been losing matches but also the hearts of its fans. Instead of reflecting on these concerns, Sammy’s response appears defensive, shielding mediocrity rather than addressing the root problems. The call is clear: rather than silencing the fans, the team should engage with them, listen to their concerns, and work towards rebuilding what’s broken.

  • $47m ‘creepy’ ganja bust in Central – 2 held

    $47m ‘creepy’ ganja bust in Central – 2 held

    In a series of coordinated anti-narcotics operations, Trinidad and Tobago law enforcement authorities have successfully intercepted substantial quantities of illicit drugs with a combined street value exceeding $67 million. The most significant seizure occurred in Central Trinidad, where specialized police units confiscated over 413 kilograms of high-potency Colombian marijuana known as “Creepy” strain.

    The operation, conducted between 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM on Wednesday, was executed by the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) with support from the Inter-Agency Task Force. Acting on precise intelligence, officers raided a residential property under the Emergency Powers Regulation of 2025, discovering ten crocus bags and five garbage bags filled with compressed marijuana packets. The confiscated narcotics, with an estimated value of $47.6 million, represent one of the largest single drug seizures in recent operations.

    Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro personally commended the operating teams, emphasizing the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration. “Today’s operations demonstrated the power of true teamwork across our units,” Guevarro stated. “Your skill, discipline, and initiative were evident in every task, enabling the precise and professional execution of complex missions.”

    Earlier the same day, SIU officers conducted a separate operation along the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, intercepting a vehicle containing 40 packets of the same Colombian strain weighing approximately 20.74 kilograms, valued at $4.4 million. This interception resulted in the arrest of the driver.

    These operations followed another significant drug bust at the ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago, where authorities seized $16 million worth of cocaine and apprehended two female suspects.

    The term “Creepy” marijuana refers to a potent variant developed in Colombia’s Cauca region from genetic stock originally native to the United States and Europe. This strain contains THC concentrations 15-25% higher than traditional marijuana, producing more intense psychoactive effects. THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for marijuana’s characteristic high.

    All seized evidence remains in police custody as investigations continue, with multiple suspects currently in custody facing drug trafficking charges.