标签： Trinidad and Tobago

The tragic death of Romona Victor, a UNC councillor, in a reported murder-suicide carried out by her husband, Rodney Ramsumair, has once again highlighted the pervasive issue of femicide in Trinidad and Tobago. Siparia Mayor Doodnath Mayhroo urged women in abusive relationships to seek counselling and walk away, but the reality is far more complex. Despite such advice, femicides continue to rise, with 137 women and girls killed daily by intimate partners globally in 2024, according to the UN. Locally, NGOs like the International Women’s Resource Network report alarming figures for 2025, underscoring the urgency of the crisis. This grim reality reveals systemic failures: women’s complaints are often dismissed by authorities, and protection orders are not always effective. Even when women attempt to leave abusive relationships, they are frequently pursued by their former partners. The case of Ms. Victor, a well-known councillor, illustrates that no woman is immune to this violence. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles have both expressed their grief and called for action. Ms. Persad-Bissessar emphasized the need for a supportive environment where victims can come forward without fear, while Ms. Beckles advocated for a stronger legal system and expanded gender-based policing. However, addressing the root causes of this crisis requires a cultural shift. Harmful attitudes and stereotypes perpetuated among boys and men must be challenged. Men have a critical role to play in reshaping societal beliefs and behaviors to end this cycle of violence.

For over a decade, the Arouca community has been illuminated each December by the heartwarming efforts of Ronald Garvin, founder of the Smiley Faces Events Christmas Caravan. What began as a modest Christmas party on Forde Street has evolved into a mobile celebration that brings gifts, music, and holiday cheer directly to families across the area. Garvin, a health, safety, and environment assistant, has dedicated himself to fostering a sense of togetherness and joy during the festive season. The caravan, which features a truck loaded with toys, snacks, and sweet boxes, aims to create an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and celebrated. Garvin’s initiative, which started in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has grown to encompass multiple streets, reaching hundreds of children annually. The event not only delivers presents but also strengthens community bonds and inspires acts of kindness. Garvin’s motivation stems from his own upbringing, where his mother’s determination ensured that he and his siblings always had something to look forward to during the holidays. Despite challenges in securing funding, Garvin and his team of volunteers continue to make the caravan a beloved tradition. This year, they hope to reach 500 children, spreading the message of joy, love, and generosity. Garvin encourages corporate Trinidad and Tobago to contribute, emphasizing the importance of giving during the holiday season. The caravan’s impact extends beyond material gifts, offering hope and creating lasting memories for families. As Garvin aptly puts it, the true essence of the season lies in one word: giving.

The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) has formally requested the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance to provide clarity on the implementation of a negotiated five per cent wage increase for teachers, covering the period from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2023. In a statement released on November 25 and signed by newly appointed president Crystal Ashe, TTUTA revealed that the Ministry of Education is awaiting formal instructions from the Ministry of Finance to proceed. Ashe emphasized that the association was assured processing would commence immediately upon receiving the directive. Consequently, TTUTA has also written to the Minister of Finance, demanding a clear timeline for the payments. Ashe stressed the importance of transparency and timely information for educators, vowing to advocate vigorously on their behalf. The statement referenced Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s October 13 budget presentation, where he announced the ratification of Collective Agreements signed in April 2025, which include wage increases for the Teaching Service, the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, and the Port of Spain and San Fernando City Corporations. The minister estimated the annual cost of implementing these agreements at $214 million, with arrears amounting to $730 million by December 2025. Meanwhile, conflicting reports have emerged regarding a ten per cent wage increase offer to the Public Services Association (PSA). While PSA President Felisha Thomas claimed the association received a formal offer, an unnamed source from the Chief Personnel Officer’s office stated that the letter only promised an offer subject to negotiations. Former Finance Minister Colm Imbert refrained from commenting on the situation but noted that the 2026 budget did not allocate funds for the salary increases or backpay, suggesting that a second budget for 2026 would be necessary if the payments are to be made.